Whether you’re thriving, merely surviving, or existing somewhere in between, your mental health is at the center of it all. By definition, mental health encompasses psychological, emotional, and social well-being, all of which are important dimensions of whole-person wellness.

But you don’t really need a formal definition to understand the importance of mental health; your day-to-day experiences provide real-life evidence. When you feel good and your mental health is at its best, you are likely to be more productive, and more likely to accomplish your goals. However, when you struggle at the other end of the spectrum, mental health issues can keep you stuck in patterns that prevent you from reaching your goals.

Contrary to what you may have learned to believe, mental health isn’t a mysterious entity that exists separately from physical health. Mental health is intricately connected with sleep, appetite, motivation levels, energy levels, your perception of pain, gut health, and the way your immune system functions. That’s a lot of interconnection.  

The evidence is clear. The mind and body are connected. Therefore, mental health can’t be set apart from overall health.

Mental health is health.

Make yours a priority.