The Essence of Mental Health

If you haven't already been bombarded with messages about this this week... It's Mental Health Week. The WHO (World Health Organisation) define Mental Health as:

  A state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.

It is I think a wonderful definition and the idea that it is defined by 'realising our own potential' is both fascinating and motivating. It says nothing of who you are, your job, your income, your circumstances, nor does it blessedly say anything about the total absence of mental or any other illness, which for many people may not be attainable - for whatever reason. Many people live with ongoing 'issues', but strive forward, continue to grow, contribute, nurture themselves and others around them.

Mental Health is a continuous process. It ebbs and flows, it waxes and wanes, it often requires a bit of work and effort, wisdom and sometimes intimate knowledge of yourself and how you tick. Spend some time this week - focusing on yourself, your needs, your goals, what you might need to be doing to realise your own potential and how you might ensure that your own mental health is as good as it can be.

You only have one life after all.... make it worth living...

Much Love,

Helen