James M. Eddy Texas A&M University Managing Your Mental Health

A Continuum of Well-Being Mental health is a state of emotional and social well- being. Mental illness is a disorder or problem of the mind that prevents a person from being productive, from adjusting to life, etc. Numerous factors affect one’s mental health and illness including: Genetics Physical abilities, disabilities, or vulnerabilities Social and environmental conditions and stressors

A Continuum of Well-Being What Makes a Person Mentally Well Mentally well is often referred to as well-adjusted. A mentally well person has the following qualities: Positive self-image and good self-esteem Appropriate and stable moods Controls emotions, i.e. love, guilt, and remorse Is flexible and adaptable in social situations Accepts strengths and limitations Tolerates ambiguity in problem solving Does not distort reality

A Continuum of Well-Being The Role of Your Emotions It is mentally healthy to express emotions appropriately. Rage is an example of an inappropriate expression of emotion. The Benefits of a Good Night’s Sleep Sleep is vital to functioning at optimum levels both mentally and physically. REM sleep: body is quiet but the mind is active (e.g. dreams). Non-REM sleep: body is active but mind is not (e.g. sleep walking).

A Continuum of Well-Being The Benefits of a Good Night’s Sleep Recommendations for a better night’s sleep: Go to bed and waking up at a consistent time. Exercise regularly. Avoid heavy meals before bed (2 hrs). Stay away from stimulants (coffee, chocolate, cola). If you are unable to fall asleep, try reading. Stay away from OTC sleep aids.

A Continuum of Well-Being Who Am I? The Importance of Knowing Yourself Self-Concept is how you see yourself. Self-Esteem is the value you place on yourself. Self-Efficacy is the belief in your abilities. Self-Actualization is the highest level of one’s capability.

A Continuum of Mental Dysorganization Approximately 20% of Americans are affected by mental illness yearly. Dysorganization is the pain, or difficulty, one experiences in coping with the process of organization or living. Mental illness, according to Menninger, is directly proportional to the amount of dysfunction.

Figure 2.2 A Continuum of Mental Dysorganization Figure 2.2

Figure 2.3 A Continuum of Mental Dysorganization Figure 2.3

Suicide: A Symptom of Mental Illness 200,000 unsuccessful attempts & 30,000 successful suicides annually. Many attempts are unreported. Warning signs of suicide: Change in behavior Loss of interest in usual activities Weight loss or gain Withdrawal from friends or family Feelings of hopelessness or guilt

Suicide: A Symptom of Mental Illness Suicide Among Teens and Elders Third leading cause of death among people aged Hopelessness is a recurring thought in the mind. Elderly people represent 12% of population, but represent 20% of reported suicides

Getting Help for Mental Health Problems Professionals who can assist with mental health issues include: Psychiatrists Psychologists Social workers Mental health counselors

Closing Thoughts Mental health is often contextual and relative Intra-individual and inter-individual difference exist Good definition: “The ability to cope effectively with day-to-day activities in which one engages. Positive mental health incorporates the ability to be adaptable, flexible and to respect the worth of self an others.

What Mental Health Is Not Normality Never having had help Adjustment to society or to reality Absence of Symptoms Everlasting happiness

What Mental Health Is Being real Being realistic Being able to satisfy needs Taking responsibilty for personal feelings and actions Being free and autonomous Having a good self image Being able to be alone in silence Being capable of physical and emotional intimacy