Being in good mental health is not just about not having a mental illness. A person can live with a mental disorder and still experience mental well-being that results in a balanced and satisfying life.

Like being in good physical health, being in good mental health makes you feel good about yourself. It also allows you to enjoy the joys of life, blossom and try new things.

Basis of good mental health: balance

To maintain good mental health, you have to balance the various aspects of your life, that is, the aspects:

  • social;
  • physical;
  • mental;
  • economic;
  • spiritual;
  • emotional.

The periods of life (studies, career paths, family life, etc.), the difficulties and the challenges encountered sometimes tip the balance on one side or the other. It may then be relevant to question the changes to be made in order to promote the maintenance of one’s mental health.

Factors that influence mental health

Several factors influence a person’s mental health:

  • biological factors, eg heredity;
  • personal factors, such as lifestyle, level of self-esteem, or experiences of childhood
  • the physical environment, such as the state of the place of residence or the quality of the neighborhood;
  • the social environment, for example, the quality of relationships established with family, friends and the community;
  • the economic environment, such as employment status and living conditions.

It is impossible to act on certain factors such as heredity or certain biological characteristics. However, you can change your habits and take certain steps to keep yourself in good mental health.

Measures to maintain good mental health

Adopt good habits

  • Take the time to eat well.
  • Go to bed at a reasonable time to get enough sleep.
  • Exercise every day.
  • Reduce your intake of stimulants: coffee, tea, soft drinks or energizing, chocolate.
  • Decrease or completely stop using alcohol, drugs and tobacco.

Maintain your social network

  • Maintain positive relationships with those around you: family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, etc.
  • Participate in leisure activities that you enjoy and find time to indulge in them.

Decrease your stress level

  • Use natural methods to control your stress. For example, take deep breaths, exercise, or take time to relax.
  • Trust yourself.
  • When you’re having a hard time, join self-help and support groups. You will be able to exchange with other people who are in the same situation as you. This could help you better manage your emotions while learning from others’ experiences.

Maintain a positive work climate

Encourage your employer  to take steps to reduce the sources of stress and improve the work environment, for example:

  • hold regular team meetings
  • encourage employees to participate in the activities of the company;
  • provide staff training programs;
  • put in place a system of recognition of work and employee participation;
  • take steps to prevent psychological harassment and to promote civility at work.