Mental health, often known as "mental wellbeing," is a phrase that describes our thoughts, feelings, or "moods," as well as our behavior. When it comes to defining mental health, it's crucial to realize that, like our physical wellbeing, our mental health isn't static and changes with time.
We all have our emotional ups and downs, and there may be periods of the year when we are less emotionally stable. For example, in locations where there is less sunshine during this time of year, some persons have been proven to have lower mental health throughout the winter months. We've all had instances when we've felt depressed, anxious, or scared. The majority of the time, such emotions fade. They can, however, occasionally evolve towards a more severe problem, which can happen to anyone.
Everyone is unique. You might be able to recover from a setback, while someone else might be stuck with it for a long time. Your mental wellness isn't always consistent. It might shift as your circumstances change and you progress through life stages.
Mental health issues have a stigma associated with them. This indicates that people are apprehensive about them and don't discuss them much. Many people are apprehensive about expressing their emotions. However, knowing and expressing how you're feeling is beneficial. Many studies have demonstrated that our mental health and physical wellbeing are inextricably linked: bad mental health may influence our physical health, and poor physical health can impair our mental wellbeing.
In recent years, there has been a greater focus on mental health, not least since the changes brought on by the COVID-19 epidemic have impacted many people's mental health. Some specialists have tried to develop alternative words to describe the distinction between "mental health" and "mental health problems" to make things a little clearer. Various people have advocated phrases like "excellent mental health," "positive mental health," "mental wellbeing," "subjective wellbeing," & even "happy" to emphasize that mental health is all about wellness instead of sickness. While some believe that using more words to explain the same subject is valid, others contend it only adds to the confusion.
As a result, others have attempted to explain the distinction by describing mental health as one end of a continuum – represented by feeling good as well as functioning normally – and mental health conditions as the other end – symbolized by symptoms that affect people's thoughts, feelings, or behavior. However, it's vital to keep in mind that mental health is a multifaceted issue. The absence of a mental health problem does not always imply that mental health is in good shape. Similarly, it's conceivable to be labeled with a mental health problem despite feeling OK in many ways.
In the end, mental health is all about being emotionally, cognitively, & socially healthy — the way we think, feel, and form connections – not just the absence of mental illness. Adults are widely known to suffer from poor mental health due to the demands and worries that come with adult life, such as job and family obligations, but it is becoming increasingly recognized that children are also susceptible to external influences and therefore can suffer from mental health difficulties. As a result, parents must be aware of their children's mental health and any possible concerns. Teachers at our summer camp know how to deal with them.
Mental health concerns that are commonly encountered
Many factors can influence mental health, including our genes (the biological composition we receive from our parents & life events, both positive & negative. Traumatic experiences that occurred a long time ago and may not even be aware of can lead to mental health concerns. Anxiety, stress, sadness, ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), and eating disorders are Singaporean children's most frequent mental health concerns.
How can you tell if there's a problem?
In Singapore, people are becoming more aware of the importance of mental health. It is well accepted that detecting indications of mental health disorders as early as feasible is critical in preventing them from progressing into more severe concerns. The following are some typical symptoms of poor mental health in children:
* Excessive or insufficient sleep
* Eating excessively or insufficiently
* Despair or a sense of despair
* Tiredness or a lack of energy
* A lack of desire to participate in social activities
* Consistent inability to concentrate
* Compulsive behaviors
* Mood swings
It's essential to note, though, that unsociable "moody" adolescent teenagers may be struggling with hormonal as well as other development changes rather than bad mental health!
Ways to enhance the mental health of children
Fortunately, there are several methods that both children and adults may assist in maintaining mental health. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
* Stay active and exercise regularly.
* Eat a balanced diet
* Make sure to stay hydrated.
* Get enough rest.
* Participate in social activities
* Engage in enjoyable activities and pastimes.
* Seek assistance if you're worried or depressed.
How might children's camps help?
Kids camps are fantastic for various reasons, but one of the most significant is that they may assist children in maintaining excellent mental health. Holiday camp in Singapore are friendly place where children are constantly engaged in collaboration and contact with other children, allowing them to develop social skills that will benefit their mental health throughout their lives. Good camps usually include a combination of brain and body activities, ensuring that children remain physically engaged and their bodies create mood-enhancing hormones known as endorphins. This physical exercise also aids in the promotion of healthy sleep, which is an essential component of mental wellness.
Reputable camps will also give many opportunities for children to relax & drink water, as well as nutritious snacks & lunches to maintain their bodies nourished. Teachers at summer camps are taught to recognize indications of anxiety and poor mental health in children and are always willing to listen if they have concerns. Of course, one thing that mothers should know before sending their children to camp is that it is all about performing engaging activities & having fun, which is a vital component of good mental health!
This post was sponsored by Newton Show Camp
