Understanding Mental Health
- Glenda Dela Cruz
- Mar 17
- 2 min read
How important it is to understand mental health as it is woven into every aspect of life—our thoughts, emotions, relationships, work, physical health, and overall sense of purpose.
Our mental health shapes how we perceive the world, respond to challenges, and connect with others.
Thoughts & Emotions
Our mental state influences how we interpret situations. A resilient mind sees setbacks as growth opportunities, while an overwhelmed mind may feel stuck in negativity.
Think about how you perceive difficulties. What thoughts and feelings do you have about your challenges in life?
Relationships
The way we regulate emotions, communicate, and set boundaries is rooted in our mental well-being. Healthy mental states nurture deeper, more meaningful connections.
Reflect on your relationships. Are they nurturing to your wellbeing?
Physical Health
Stress, anxiety, and emotional distress can manifest as headaches, fatigue, digestive issues, or chronic conditions. Likewise, movement, breathwork, and proper nutrition can support mental well-being.
Take an inventory of any physical discomforts and diseases you have. How is your mental health status impacting how you are managing your physical wellbeing?
Work & Productivity
Focus, creativity, and motivation all stem from mental clarity and emotional balance. A well-supported mind fosters innovation, while burnout drains efficiency.
Ask yourself about your performance in whatever tasks you have set for yourself. Are you energized and effective or are you feeling stuck and apathetic?
Decision-Making & Purpose
When we are mentally well, we make heart-centered choices that align with our values. A scattered or distressed mind may struggle with clarity, leading to impulsive or fear-based decisions. Look closely at your actions , choices and decisions. Are they aligned with your core beliefs and values or is there a dissonance?
Understanding mental health is to see how everything is interrelated and interconnected. When mental health is nurtured, life flows with more ease. There becomes more presence, more long lasting fulfillment, more calmness and more peace despite of ongoing uncertainties. When neglected, even small challenges can feel insurmountable.
So next time you have a choice between mental health and something else, may you prioritize mental health.
Our mental well-being isn’t just self-care—it’s foundational to living fully and freely, inside and out.
Be well. Look inward. Prioritize your mental health.

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