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Mental health is a term used to describe how you are doing emotionally, psychologically, and socially. Your mental health affects your daily life, from how you act and how you feel to what you think about. Mental health also involves your responses to stressors and negative events in your life. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health because they both can have a significant impact on each other. Just as your brain is connected to the rest of your body, so is your mental well-being. If you stub your toe, your foot hurts and your brain reacts with an emotion like pain or frustration. When you are struggling with your mental health, you may notice your body is too. This can show up in a variety of ways, from low energy and lack of motivation for physical activity to stomach and bowel problems.
That’s why TrueCare has created this resource to serve as your guide for understanding what mental health truly means, why it’s so important, and how it connects to every part of your well-being. Whether you’re looking for clarity about your own mental health or seeking ways to support a loved one, this guide offers helpful insights, practical tips, and information on how TrueCare can support you on your journey to better emotional, psychological, and physical health.
Mental Health vs Mental Illness
Mental health and mental illness are two different things. Your mental health refers to your mental well-being and is always with you, just like your physical health. You may be experiencing positive mental health, enjoying strong interpersonal connections, and managing your stress with healthy activities, or you may be struggling with your mental health, finding yourself easily frustrated, overly tired, or uninterested in spending time with others because you are stressed.
A mental illness is a specific, diagnosable condition that significantly impacts your daily functioning. People may struggle with their mental health when a mental illness is present because the symptoms of the mental illness affect their mental well-being. Whether or not you have a mental illness, you will always have your mental health so it’s important you learn more about how to take care of your mental well-being.
Causes of Mental Health Struggles
Mental health struggles are caused by many different variables and the experience is unique for each person. While there may be similarities amongst those suffering from similar mental health problems, it is important that individuals get help from a medical professional for their specific issues so that they know if they need treatment for conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, or other health issues.
In some cases, a sudden situation that causes a significant amount of stress and anxiety can trigger a mental health problem. Losing a job, owing an outstanding amount of debt, the loss of a loved one, or other life events can cause depression, particularly when not addressed. Also, sudden harm to the body such as a car accident, rape, or other traumatic events can cause mental health issues to develop and the person to struggle. Continual stresses such as unrealistic expectations from a boss, a parent, or a spouse can also contribute to mental health. Ongoing medical concerns or other chronic conditions can cause mental health illnesses too. A childhood history including neglect or abuse, or a pattern of unhealthy relationships and poor social interactions can also affect your mental health.
In other cases, genetics and brain chemistry can cause mental health issues to develop and be present in individuals. Some mental health concerns are more common with people who also have family members who struggle with a specific condition, like bipolar disorder or depression. You may inherit certain genes from your parents and relatives that increase the likelihood of you developing a mental health disorder. Your brain chemistry can also affect your mental health and when certain chemicals and hormones are off-balance you may experience depression or other mood disorders.
Attention-deficit problems, psychotic disorders, depression, schizophrenia, and more can be treated and don’t have to be ignored or simply suffered through. If you are not sure what the cause of your mental illness is, a medical professional can help you get to the root of the problem so that you can start taking control of it.
Signs of Mental Health Issues
A wide range of mental health conditions can affect your emotions, behaviors, and even the way you think. While signs and symptoms can vary depending on the condition, there are some things to look out for if you are concerned about your mental health or the mental health of a loved one. These signs and symptoms can begin to affect daily life and even impact your relationships and interactions with people around you.
Here are some examples that may signal a mental health concern:
- Feeling sad or hopeless
- Low energy, feeling tired, and problems sleeping
- Mood swings
- Pulling away from people and normal activities
- Inability to perform daily tasks
- Feeling like nothing matters
- Having persistent thoughts and memories you can’t get out of your head
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- Feeling unusually confused, forgetful, anxious, angry, upset, worried, or fearful
- Smoking or using drugs and alcohol more frequently
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- Eating or sleeping too much or too little
- Thinking of harming yourself or others
- Inability to perform daily tasks like taking care of your kids or getting to work or school
More severe signs of mental illness that should be addressed immediately are suicidal thoughts, confusion, delusions, hallucinations, and dramatic changes in social, eating, and sleeping patterns. Drug and alcohol abuse may occur as an attempt to cope with mental health problems and can also be a sign that there is more going on.
If you are having a mental health crisis, call or text 988. The 988 national Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7, confidential support to people in suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress.
Why is Mental Health important?
Mental health matters because it shapes every part of your life. When your mental well-being is supported, you’re better able to handle life’s stresses, build healthy relationships, and stay physically well. Good mental health allows you to work productively, make meaningful contributions to your community, and pursue your goals and dreams, helping you reach your full potential.
It’s also important to remember that mental health and physical health are deeply connected. Struggling with untreated mental health conditions can increase the risk of serious physical issues like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and stroke. Taking care of your mind is not just about emotional balance — it’s also a vital part of protecting your overall health and quality of life.
At TrueCare, we believe that supporting your mental well-being is essential for living a healthier, more fulfilled life. Whether you need help managing stress, navigating a tough time, or addressing a mental health condition, we’re here to help you take the next step.
There Is Help Available
People who have mental health issues will sometimes just try to deal with the problem alone instead of getting help. They push through the negativity and depression and try to cope on their own. They may try to face the issue alone because they do not realize that help is available or because they don’t understand the severity of the issue. They may also be worried about seeking treatment for fear of what others may think, but everyone needs to realize that there is no shame in seeking help and there is nothing to be afraid of. Mental health professionals apply the best depression treatments and therapies, and they seek to identify the problem by getting to the root of it rather than trying to cover it up.
The First Step Is to Have a Conversation
Remember, it is all about taking that first step and opening up the dialogue when it comes to mental health issues. Sit down with your doctor and loved ones, and take that first step to gain control of the problem with the right treatments. When you feel healthy mentally, your quality of life improves and the world is not the uphill battle that it once seemed to be.
Virtual Health Care and Mental Health
Virtual health care, also sometimes known as telehealth, offers health services through a variety of technologies where you can actually meet with your doctor or therapist in real-time while physically apart. Virtual health care can also include other ways of communicating between you and your health care provider, like through an online portal with direct messages and audio files.
Virtual health care helps you connect with your doctor or therapist without needing to go to a specific location. You may appreciate the convenience of virtual health care and find that scheduling appointments is easier when travel time is not involved in the decision. Virtual health care offers greater access between you and your health care providers so you can get the care and treatment you need.
Participating in virtual health care visits can help you improve your mental health and well-being. Therapy conducted virtually is a valued option both for people who struggle with mental illnesses and people who struggle with their mental health. Whether you are in need of treatment or want to talk with someone about how to develop better coping skills for when you’re feeling down, talk therapy or scheduling an appointment with your doctor can be your first step toward making a significant impact on your health and well-being.
Help is available! Call TrueCare at (760) 736-6767 to speak with our friendly professionals about scheduling an appointment and to learn more about your options for treatment.
Mental Health Awareness: Learn More to Get Answers
May is Mental Health Month, making it the perfect time to open conversations about emotional well-being — for yourself and your loved ones. While everyone experiences occasional stress or sadness, mental health conditions are more persistent and serious. Understanding the signs and treatments is key to supporting recovery and helping those around you get the care they need.
Mental Health Month raises awareness, challenges stigma, and encourages people to learn about the causes, signs, and impacts of mental health issues. TrueCare is here to help you start that journey, whether you or someone you love needs support, therapy, or simply a safe space to talk.
If you’re in crisis, call or text 988 for 24/7, confidential help through the national Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
Remember, mental health affects not only the individual but also family, friends, and the wider community. By learning, talking, and seeking help, you take important steps toward resilience, healing, and a healthier future. TrueCare is here to walk with you every step of the way.
Sources:
https://www.mentalhealth.gov/basics/what-is-mental-health
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