Overview
Mental health encompasses psychological, emotional, and social wellbeing. It affects how we think, feel, and act — and how we handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions. Mental health exists on a spectrum from flourishing to disorder, influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors.
The WHO defines mental health not merely as the absence of disorder, but as a positive state: the ability to realize one’s potential, cope with normal life stresses, work productively, and contribute to community.
Key Dimensions
- Emotional regulation: The ability to experience, express, and manage emotions adaptively
- Cognitive functioning: Clarity of thought, concentration, memory, and executive function
- Social connection: Meaningful relationships and sense of belonging
- Self-awareness: Understanding one’s patterns, triggers, and inner life
- Resilience: The capacity to adapt and recover from adversity
Related
- Shadow Work — Integrating unconscious psychological content
- Health and Wellbeing — Holistic health framework