The Importance of Mental Health to Your Well-Being - A blog by Abby Holt

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In today's fast-paced, social media-driven world, well-being is not just associated with eating good food and looking after your physical self. The impact of emotional and psychological health is one of the most important aspects of well-being.This blog post presents some important information about mental health and well-being.

The Emotional Intelligence Connection

The importance of mental health is attributed to better overall health, with lowered stress responses in the body. In fact, various studies have shown that negative thoughts and the inability to regulate emotions lead to chronic health problems, such as:

•          Hormonal imbalances

•          Hypertension (high blood pressure)

•          Digestive disorders

•          Headaches

•          Heart problems

•          Sleep disturbances

•          Inflammation and stress

This creates a vicious cycle whereby you feel physically unwell because of your emotions, which in turn makes you feel more and more negative. The first step to breaking the cycle is to practice positive affirmations and work on emotional intelligence, boosting your mood and self-esteem. A good understanding of emotional intelligence creates an emotionally resilient person, and this leads to better overall well-being.

One key to protecting your mental health is maintaining a positive, healthy environment at home. If you recognize the signs of negative energy in your home, take steps such as decluttering and smudging with sage to promote positivity. Keeping your home happy is a major component of well-being.

Chronic Financial Stress 

Many people are not happy in their jobs but simply work for the money. You may feel that you have no other option, or there are feelings of failure linked to leaving a job, even if it isn't fulfilling. Because of the way health care is linked to working in many instances, it can be difficult to leave a job if you have health needs, and there are, of course, financial implications. Financial independence is such a strong motivator that you may continue to feel stuck in a job, even if you have other aspirations.

This can lead to various chronic stress symptoms, including:

•          Headaches, which can worsen into debilitating daily migraines.

•          Lowered immune response, which leads to an increase in viral infections, colds, and flu.

•          Rheumatoid arthritis flare-ups, which can be physically painful and draining.

•          Diabetes, as stress hormones may have an effect on the production of insulin in the body, along with other risk factors.

•          Anxiety, as well as depression and anger.

Fortunately, there is a way you can get the job of your dreams that can reduce your stress by boosting your emotional and physical well-being. There are plenty of online degree programs that you can join, which offer competitive rates and that allow you to study in your own time, working around family obligations and current work commitments. You can earn your master's in your chosen industry and help reduce your work stress.

When applying for your dream job, be sure to pay attention to the first impression you make. Your dress habits have a big impact on how you’re perceived in the workplace, so make sure you pay attention to your wardrobe choices.

After the Baby Comes

A cycle of unwellness with respect to one’s self image can be exacerbated for new mothers postpartum. Your stress can be heightened when caring for a newborn, so make sure you have comfortable and functional clothing that meets your needs. What you wear should be one less concern on your mind.

Shopping for Home

Seek out other home products that facilitate the health and well-being of your family. An all-terrain stroller, for example, is great for helping everyone in the family get some time outdoors. Just be sure to check out reviews for any product that you’re considering.

Mental Health Awareness

There has been increasing awareness around mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. It's no longer the taboo subject it once was, and adults of all ages, as well as teenagers, are learning about these unseen conditions.

You may have also become curious about therapy, or even if you can afford therapy. The good news is that modern telehealth (online service) therapy is affordable even for the uninsured. Therapy is available in the comfort and privacy of your home through online provider platforms, and there are a variety of therapists available to meet your individual needs.

Prioritizing mental health and creating a safe environment where those who are suffering can express themselves and get the help they need, can improve their well-being.