“What does it mean to be mentally healthy?”

‘Mental health’ is trending all around the world, especially among young people. But what does it actually mean to be mentally healthy?
Oftentimes, people believe that a ‘mentally healthy’ person is happy all the time, always communicates perfectly, never has a bad day, is extremely organised, avoids conflict, and never makes mistakes. If this were true, none of us would qualify!
To be mentally healthy does not mean to be without flaws. Therapy and counselling is not a magical cure that can heal all your wounds with a single phrase. Humans are complex—it is part of our beauty and our challenge.
It is more realistic to think about health as a direction, not a destination. You can choose to live in a way that helps you take steps towards your goals, or farther away from them. Your expectations for mental health will change as you do. As you navigate school, dating, marriage, parenting, careers, retirement, and grandparenthood, what is considered ‘mentally healthy’ will look different in each stage.
Because your environment and life stage are always shifting, comparing yourself to others will only hold you back. Setting goals with a therapist is a way to assess your life honestly, with compassion and realistic expectations for your current circumstances.
Mental health is a direction, not a destination. Reach out if we can help you get started in that direction today!