When you ask someone what they think of when we use the term mental health, it is not uncommon for people to say things like, “Depression, anxiety, suicide, therapy or medication.” Alternatively, when you ask what they think of when you say physical health, people answer, “Exercise, good nutrition and getting plenty of rest.” Herein lies the problem. According to MentalHealth.gov, “Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.” That said, our perception of mental health and learning to care for it – like we do our physical health – begins in childhood. It’s time to flip the script!
