Page 4 - Teens and Mental Health
P. 4
Chapter 1
What Is Mental Health?
The American Psychological Association defines mental health as “the
way your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors affect your life.” Being
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in good mental health gives us a sense of emotional, psychological,
and social well-being. It helps us make sound decisions, set and fulfill
meaningful personal goals, and develop healthy social relationships.
It gives us the resilience to handle stress, cope with setbacks
and challenges, and adapt to changes. It supports our continued
emotional and psychological growth. According to the World Health
Organization, mental health is “fundamental to our collective and
individual ability as humans to think, emote, interact with each other,
earn a living and enjoy life.” 8
Mental health problems cause persistent symptoms that negatively
affect how one thinks, feels, acts, or relates to others. These
symptoms cause emotional pain, anxiety, and disordered thinking.
They may interfere with schooling, work, and social relationships. They
may even make it hard to keep up with the basic tasks of everyday life.
A Matter of Degree
It can sometimes be hard to tell if specific feelings and behaviors
are a sign of a mental health problem or if they fall within the range
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