Differences in Emotional Vs. Mental Health

Do you know the difference in emotional health and mental health? We often hear the terms used interchangeably, but they refer to two different areas of a person’s health. While emotional and mental health work together, it’s possible to be strong in one area and weaker in another.

Mental Health

The way our brain processes and understands information refers to our mental health. It includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Our mental health affects our relationships, how we manage stress, and how we exercise reason.

Symptoms of mental health problems affect us physically through mood changes, lack of energy, over- or under-eating, abusing drugs or alcohol, having suicidal thoughts, sleeping too much or not enough, feeling helpless, or having an inability to perform daily tasks.

Mental health disorders include bipolar disorder, depression, and schizophrenia among others.

Emotional Health

Our emotional health dictates how we react to situations and circumstances based on how our mental health interprets that information. Expressing emotion in an age-appropriate way indicates good emotional health. It requires us to manage our emotions and determine the correct response to situations.

Better Together

While mental health and emotional health refer to two different areas of our health, they work together to help us manage everyday stress. When we can process information from a situation correctly, we’re more likely to respond in an emotionally correct way. This allows us to manage difficult and even traumatic events to find solutions, develop resiliency, and learn coping skills.

Difficulties with your mental or emotional health are not cause for shame. Statistics show 1 in 5 people will experience a mental illness this year. Instability in mental or emotional health can lead to problems at work and in relationships and can lead to abuse of drugs and alcohol. 

Don’t struggle alone. Reach out for help now. Our counselors are ready to help you face your mental or emotional health struggles so you can lead a stronger, healthier life. To make an appointment call us at 662-282-4359.