Mental Health
If we start with the English equivalent of “Mental Health,” we will make a softer introduction to the subject. In Turkish, it is expressed as “Akıl Sağlığı” meaning “Health of the Mind”. When viewed from this aspect, we, as a society, tend to close the subject by saying that we are mostly fine and do not need help. However, by behaving in this way, we overlook a very important point for ourselves: just as we prefer to exercise, eat healthily, and use supportive products for our bodies to be healthier, it is also very natural and necessary to make supportive efforts for our mental health to be better.
Do you know why?
The World Health Organization (WHO) has defined mental health as “a state of well-being in which an individual realizes their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to their community.”
We know that being truly healthy is based on three main elements: body, mind, and soul. In our article “Real Health,” we noted mental health as an essential element for “holistic health” in detail. The reason for this is the research showing that 88% of the rising well-being trends after the pandemic will be in the field of “Mental Health” itself! Employers who care about the happiness and performance of their employees are preparing to make serious investments in this regard.
When we look at all these trends and mental disorders that significantly affect the quality of life, such as depression, burnout syndrome, anxiety, and addiction, whose number is increasing day by day, we can clearly see the importance of the issue. On the other hand, living a life that is not satisfying from within can be the biggest obstacle that can prevent us from realizing our potential. So, it is not just about experiencing problems, but we can also start by realizing that a better life with a sense of satisfaction is possible. When we approach the “Mental Health” issue with an unbiased perspective, investing in it to preserve and improve it can be seen as the first step towards “being well” in the future.
Today, in addition to the increasing mindfulness practices, meditation techniques, and personal development practices, it is certain that including psychotherapeutic approaches in our lives will benefit us tremendously. If it is possible to live in a deeper connection with our own bodies, our essence, and our minds, by understanding our human existence consisting of soul, mind, and body, then what are we waiting for? Let’s start.
