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I’ve been studying the differences between emotional health and mental health. While they often coexist, I don’t see them as interchangeable. I view my emotional health as the ability to consistently manage my emotions and recognize my emotional needs. Living authentically and staying in tune with myself comes naturally with age. As I learn my patterns, routines, and triggers, I allow myself the grace to experience all sorts of emotions, but I no longer let them control my behaviors. I try to see things for what they are instead of making assumptions. Sometimes thoughts are just thoughts, not truths.
My mental health, on the other hand, is a broader term for things like my cognitive functioning (how clearly I’m thinking, reasoning, and making decisions), as well as my psychological well-being (my sense of purpose, self-worth, and ability to cope with life’s ups and downs). I wrote about my personal journey with discovering a sense of purpose in my book, Glasses Off: Seeing God When Your Vision Is Gone.
For me, it’s important to distinguish the differences between my emotional health and my mental health, because knowledge brings power and self-awareness brings prioritization. If I know that my emotional health is lacking this week, I can take steps to improve it by journaling, practicing gratitude exercises, reading the Bible, or calling a loved one for support. If I’m struggling with my mental health like challenges with concentration, memory, or decision-making, I know to schedule a therapy session, exercise, get more sleep, and clean up my diet.
Understanding the differences between my emotional health and my mental health allows me the opportunity to focus on nurturing both. By addressing them separately, I can work toward balance, stability, and an overall greater well-being. From that full and nourished well, I can pour out love onto others. Although I’m nowhere near where I want to be, I’m getting closer with time and practice.
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