Health, as defined by the World Health Organization, is “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” Does every individual possess a full understanding of this definition? Or do some believe health is defined by level of fitness and a well balanced diet? Mental health, in my opinion, is something that needs more attention, something to which more awareness needs to be drawn, and something that not only is a part of the definition of health, but rather a factor that in its absence, physical and social-well being will suffer. I asked five students here at the University of Delaware what it meant to be in a state of positive mental health in comparison to a state of negative mental health, and how each side impacts daily living.

The general consensus regarding being in a state of positive mental health and its effect on daily living, was that an individual would have a better mindset each day, be content with their own character, productively complete daily tasks, and overall have a sense of enthusiasm through each day. One student I interviewed stated, “Being in a positive state of mental health definitely means that you’re okay with your well being and everything going on.” In relation to that, another student exclaimed, “I think in a positive mental health state you’re just a lot more productive, “ and further brought in how stress is more manageable. I found that one student’s response perfectly summarized each conclusion as he asserted that, “In general…your outlook on life is just more optimistic.” 

In response to the contrasting side, I found students’ responses to be something that I was able to reflect on more deeply. “I think being in a negative state of mental health just means that you’re not okay with everything going on, and you’re just more overwhelmed and stressed.” To relate to the idea of stress in the negative aspect, another student exclaimed, “The stress is overwhelming and it just consumes you, and it can put you in a negative position.” Once again, one individual’s statement truly summed up the general idea of being in a negative state of mental health; “…your outlook on life is more pessimistic.”

The reason I chose this topic was because I have known people around me who struggle with anxiety, depression, and overall mental health. It is not easy to dislike yourself or to become overwhelmed by the stress of everything, or feel alone. 

The reality is that no one goes every day of their lives without a single problem, a single doubt, a single struggle. Of course, we all experience the highest of highs, and the best moments in a lifetime, but we also experience the lowest of lows and struggles beyond what sometimes we cannot even wrap our own minds around, myself included. Know that you are loved, and there is always someone to lean on.

By: Toni Abdy