Mental Health
Definition
Mental health affects our emotional, psychological, and social well-being; and helps us enjoy our lives, deal with the challenges life brings, and contribute to our communities. The term "mental" is used to describe anything related to the mind. It can refer to your thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. It is an essential part of our overall health, affecting how we think, feel, and act.
Mental health is also referred to as:
- Emotional well-being
- Emotional health
- Psychological health
Key Things to Know About Mental Health
- Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.
- Mental health is an essential part of our overall health, affecting how we think , feel, and act.
- Mental health is more than the absence of mental illness.
Mental Health vs. Mental Illness
Mental health refers to anyone’s mental/emotional well-being whereas mental illness refers to a diagnosable condition that impacts a person’s thoughts and behaviors.
Learn more about Mental Illness »
Common Myths About Mental Health Wellness
- Your mental health isn’t as important as other peoples'.
- If it isn’t debilitating, it isn’t bad enough to seek help.
- There has to be a reason why you aren’t feeling well.
- You can figure it out on your own without help.
Our Approach to Mental Health at Dakota Family Services
Dakota Family Services actively promotes mental health and well-being. We help our patients find ways to take care of themselves without feeling guilty or selfish for doing so. We promote sleep, exercise, and diet as key components to combating any threat to mental health and also normalize getting help when it becomes difficult to manage.
More Resources:
For additional information, we've created a comprehensive list of mental health resources to support parents, children, and adults in many areas.