Mental health and mental illness are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. Mental health refers to a person's overall wellbeing, including their emotional, psychological, and social health. Mental illness, on the other hand, is a term used to describe a range of mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Mental Health
Mental health is a state of wellbeing in which a person is able to cope with the everyday stresses of life, work productively, and make meaningful contributions to their community. It is not merely the absence of mental illness, but rather encompasses a range of positive attributes, such as resilience, self-esteem, and the ability to form relationships. Mental health is influenced by a number of factors, such as genetics, environment, lifestyle choices, and access to mental health services.
Mental Illness
Mental illness is a term used to describe a range of mental health conditions, such as:
• Anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder
• Mood disorders, such as depression, bipolar disorder, and seasonal affective disorder
• Psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder
• Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa
• Personality disorders, such as borderline personality disorder and antisocial personality disorder
Mental illnesses can have a wide range of symptoms and can vary in severity. Some people may experience only mild symptoms, while others may experience severe symptoms that interfere with their daily life. Treatment for mental illness usually involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes.