As the world becomes more accepting of the concept of mental health, it has become a buzzword in many circles. It is often used in conversations as a substitute for ‘how are you?’, which tends to prompt individuals to say they are ‘fine’ regardless of how they really feel. Mental health, in itself, has become a ‘fixed destination’ for many, which can cause people to feel stigmatized if they experience any negative thoughts or emotions. In this article, we will explore the importance of changing the conversation from mental health to mental fitness, and how doing so can have a positive impact on our lives.
What is mental fitness?
Mental fitness refers to the ability to manage our emotions, thoughts, and behavior in a way that supports our well-being. It is not a fixed destination that we reach, but rather a state that we continually work towards. We all have mental fitness, just as we have physical fitness. Sometimes we feel mentally strong and resilient, while other times we may struggle with negative thoughts and emotions. It is essential to understand that mental fitness is a journey, not a destination.
Why mental fitness is better than mental health
Mental health has become a buzzword in our society, but it is often misunderstood. The term mental health implies that there is a fixed standard for what is considered ‘healthy.’ This can create an unrealistic expectation for individuals who may be struggling with their mental well-being. On the other hand, mental fitness recognizes that we all have mental ups and downs, just as we have physical ups and downs. By using the term mental fitness, we can remove the stigma associated with negative emotions and acknowledge that it is a natural part of life.
How to improve mental fitness
Improving our mental fitness involves developing coping strategies that help us manage negative emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Some ways to improve mental fitness include practicing mindfulness, engaging in physical activity, getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and seeking professional help when needed. It is also essential to surround ourselves with positive people and engage in activities that bring us joy and fulfillment.
The impact of Covid-19 on mental fitness
The Covid-19 pandemic has brought mental fitness to the forefront of people’s minds. With the pandemic causing social isolation and economic uncertainty, mental health has become a significant concern. However, it is essential to remember that we all have the ability to improve our mental fitness, even during difficult times. We can practice self-care and seek professional help when needed to manage our mental well-being.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mental fitness is a journey that we all embark on to improve our well-being. By changing the conversation from mental health to mental fitness, we can remove the stigma associated with negative emotions and acknowledge that it is natural to have mental ups and downs. Improving our mental fitness involves developing coping strategies, practicing self-care, and seeking professional help when needed. The pandemic has highlighted the importance of mental fitness, and we must prioritize our mental well-being, just as we prioritize our physical health.