Mental wellbeing is about feeling good and functioning well, as individuals and as communities. It is also about our ability to cope with life’s problems and making the most of life’s opportunities.
Good mental health is more than the absence of mental illness. It is the foundation for wellbeing. It is something you have to take care of, rather than take for granted.
Looking after your mental health is just as important as taking care of your body.
Below are five daily steps to help you promote your mental health.
5 daily steps for individual wellbeing
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Do things and talk to people that make you feel good about yourself
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Keep away from the things or people that trigger off negative feelings
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Look after your body – eat healthily and take regular exercise
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Spend time outside; enjoy the natural things around you
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Think back on the things you do. Learn from things you do right, but also when you do things wrong
What is mental health?
Some definitions:
“Mental health is the emotional and spiritual resilience which allows us to enjoy life and to survive pain, disappointment and sadness. It is a positive sense of wellbeing and an underlying belief in our own, and others’, dignity and worth.” Health Education Authority,1997
“A state of wellbeing in which the individual realises his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.” World Health Organisation, 2001
Mental Health Problems generally refer to difficulties we may experience with our mental health. Mental health problems can affect the way we think, feel and behave.
