Mental health: meaning, definitions and examples
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mental health
[ ˈmɛntəl hɛlθ ]
well-being
Mental health refers to a person's emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act, and helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.
Synonyms
emotional health, psychological well-being.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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mental health |
Use this term when referring to the overall state of a person's mental and cognitive condition, including aspects like stress levels, anxiety, depression, and other psychological disorders. It is often used in medical, clinical, and social contexts.
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emotional health |
This term is best used when discussing an individual's ability to manage and express their emotions in a healthy manner. It includes aspects like emotional resilience, ability to cope with stress, and overall emotional balance.
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psychological well-being |
This phrase is often used to describe the overall state of a person's mental and emotional health, with an emphasis on a positive, balanced, and fulfilling mental state. It is commonly used in academic, self-help, and wellness contexts.
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Examples of usage
- Mental health is just as important as physical health.
- Taking care of your mental health is essential for overall well-being.
illness
Mental health can also refer to the absence of mental disorders. It involves the stability of one's emotions and the ability to cope with life's challenges.
Synonyms
mental well-being, psychological health.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
mental health |
Typically used in medical, clinical, or general discussions about the state of someone's mind and emotions. It often covers a range of conditions such as depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders.
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mental well-being |
Often used in a broader, more positive context to highlight overall emotional and psychological condition, including happiness and stress levels. It might be used more frequently in lifestyle articles and wellness contexts.
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psychological health |
Commonly used in more formal or academic discussions. It can encompass the study of mental processes and behaviors, often used by professionals in psychology and psychiatry.
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Examples of usage
- She sought professional help for her mental health issues.
- Many people struggle with their mental health but are afraid to seek help.
Translations
Translations of the word "mental health" in other languages:
🇵🇹 saúde mental
🇮🇳 मानसिक स्वास्थ्य
🇩🇪 psychische Gesundheit
🇮🇩 kesehatan mental
🇺🇦 психічне здоров'я
🇵🇱 zdrowie psychiczne
🇯🇵 精神衛生
🇫🇷 santé mentale
🇪🇸 salud mental
🇹🇷 akıl sağlığı
🇰🇷 정신 건강
🇸🇦 الصحة النفسية
🇨🇿 duševní zdraví
🇸🇰 duševné zdravie
🇨🇳 心理健康
🇸🇮 duševno zdravje
🇮🇸 geðheilsa
🇰🇿 психикалық денсаулық
🇬🇪 მენტალური ჯანმრთელობა
🇦🇿 psixi sağlamlıq
🇲🇽 salud mental
Etymology
The concept of mental health has evolved over time, from ancient beliefs that mental illness was caused by supernatural forces to modern understandings rooted in psychology and neuroscience. The focus on mental health awareness and treatment has grown significantly in recent decades, leading to greater acceptance and support for those struggling with mental health issues.