Contrary to popular beliefs, to live a healthy and balanced life does not just equate to a healthy and strong physique. To be truly healthy, one must be mentally sound as well. Oftentimes though, people put their mental health on the sidelines, thinking it’s not as important as their physical health, more so nowadays. The pandemic has been triggering for a lot of people, especially those with underlying mental health issues. And for someone who hasn't gotten an official diagnosis, this can be confusing and ultimately lead them to just ignore it.

But then again, why should we take it seriously? How can something not that one cannot even see be an integral part to a person’s holistic well-being? That’s why in this article, ALLCARE will explain why mental health matters. 

But first, let’s define what mental health really is, and is it the same as mental illness?

Debunking the norm yet again-- mental health, is not synonymous to mental illness.  “Although the terms are often used interchangeably, poor mental health and mental illness are not the same things. A person can experience poor mental health and not be diagnosed with a mental illness. Likewise, a person diagnosed with a mental illness can experience periods of physical, mental, and social well-being,” cdc.gov says. So while they go hand in hand for the most part, it does not mean they are one and the same. That is why you often hear high-functioning people say that just because they still live an active life but suffer from different mental illnesses. 

After laying down the basic foundation of mental health, we’re here to help you further understand why taking care of your own mental health and why your mental well-being matters.

There have also been studies that show how poor mental health can not only lead to mental health conditions, it can also manifest physically. More so, people with poor mental health are said to be more likely to develop chronic illness, according to ontario.cmha.ca. It only goes to show how maintaining a good mental health can benefit you physically as well. 

2. Good mental health leads to better relationships. How you create and maintain a good relationship with others stem from how your relationship with yourself is. As mental health affects our emotional and social motors, it does have an effect as to how we treat ourselves in return.

Being in a bad place mentally can do a lot to bring down one’s self esteem and confidence; this then affects how you act and treat people around you. Self-care’s where’s at it-- take breaks, relax, rest.

3. Good mental health leads to a better life. If it’s not yet clear, your mental health takes a toll in your life in general. Being in a mentally good place leads to better decision-making, better control on your emotions, and generally, just a better life. 

Taking care of your mental health is, indeed, detrimental to living a healthier and happier life. As ALLCARE continues to fulfill and reach its goals, ALLCARE members, will get 2 free mental wellness counseling with licensed counselors from MyGolana. It can help you get your mental health in check. We hope that through this partnership, more and more people will take a step back and assess their mental state and do the necessary things to keep their mental health good and healthy.

A healthy mind leads to a healthy you, don’t ever forget that!