Mental health and mental illness are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Poor mental health does not necessarily mean a person has a mental illness, and a person with a mental illness may experience periods of physical, mental, and social well-being. Mental illness is a disorder that can be diagnosed with a standard set of criteria, and it can be caused by factors such as genes, brain chemistry, or trauma. It is important to note that anyone can have a mental illness, regardless of age, socioeconomic class, gender, or race. Mental illnesses are also referred to as mental health conditions.
They affect the way people think, feel, behave, or interact with others. There are many different types of mental illnesses and they have different symptoms that affect people's lives in different ways. Counseling sessions can help improve mental health even if a person does not have a mental illness. If you are concerned about your mental health or your levels of well-being are declining, it is important to see a general practitioner. The Canadian Mental Health Association promotes mental health for all and supports the resilience and recovery of people suffering from mental illness through public education, community research, advocacy and direct services.
Mental health refers to anyone's state of mental and emotional well-being, while mental illnesses are diagnosed conditions that affect thoughts and behaviors. Treatment for mental illness depends on the type of illness, its severity, and what the doctor considers appropriate. Q&A is an organization that helps readers take charge of their well-being, support a friend or loved one, find good help, or simply learn more about mental health and substance use. Mental illness complicates mental health by affecting how a person feels, thinks, acts, or experiences the world. Therefore, a mental health diagnosis often involves a comprehensive health evaluation that includes a physical exam. Since 2003, organizations have been working together to help people live well and to better prevent and manage mental health and substance use problems.
Melanie Pledger, executive director and founder of DNA Light Up says that the interchangeability of the two terms suggests people's willingness to develop greater mental awareness. It is important to remember that poor mental health is not always due to mental illness and that having a mental illness does not always lead to poor mental health. It can be difficult to determine when a problem with mood or thinking has become severe enough to be considered a mental health problem. Mental illnesses are health conditions that involve changes in emotions, thinking, or behavior (or a combination of these). Mental health treatment is based on an individualized plan developed in collaboration with a mental health doctor and an individual (and family members if the person so wishes).
