You might take your mental health for granted when things are going well. But being aware of symptoms and treatment options can prepare you to face any unexpected challenges and support those around you.
Why is Mental Health Ignored?
Dr. William La Valle
According to Dr. William La Valle, a licensed psychologist and an instructor of psychology programs at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), many people don’t think to prioritize their mental health.
La Valle holds a doctorate in clinical psychology and was the recipient of a Provost award.
“Oftentimes, mental health falls by the wayside,” he said. But taking care of this aspect of your wellness is one of the most important things you can do if you want to lead a full and productive life.
According to La Valle, if you aren’t monitoring your mental health, you could be more vulnerable to its impacts.
“If you are not actively aware of your mental state you may notice things like shortened attention span, irritability and difficulty being actively engaged with your surroundings,” said La Valle.
If you have a solid awareness about mental health, on the other hand, you can take action to avoid symptoms like these and make strides to improve your overall well-being.
Why is Mental Health Important in Everyday Life?
So, why is mental health important even when you’re not struggling? It informs just about every aspect of your life — and the lives of those around you.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), mental health affects multiple aspects of wellness, including:
Emotional well-being
Psychological well-being
Social well-being
Although mental and physical health are often discussed as separate phenomena, they’re actually quite intertwined, too.
“It is common to see someone struggling with mental health to experience physical health concerns,” La Valle said. “For example, anxiety and stress can lead to things like high blood pressure, headaches and loss of appetite.”
He noted that the reverse is also true, and there are benefits that come with exercising and taking care of your physical health.
Read more: Why is Mental Health Important?
How Does Mental Health Affect Society at Large?
Just like physical health, mental health can also be a public health issue. According to a 2024 point-in-time count provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, of the 771,480 individuals who were unsheltered, in emergency housing or in transitional housing, 139,964 were reported to be severely mentally ill (PDF source). That’s over 18% in total.
In addition to other sociological factors, world events like pandemics, war and political unrest can also affect wellness on a broad scale. For example, Mental Health America reports that global conflict can cause high levels of stress and lead to depression, even if you aren’t impacted directly.
La Valle also pointed out that social media is a double-edged sword in this regard, capable of both helping and harming the general public.
“Apps like TikTok have lots of videos surrounding mental health, many which contain misinformation,” he said. “At the same time, they also help to decrease the stigma around mental health by opening up conversations on these topics.”
Why is Mental Health More Important Now Than Ever?
According to The Center for Disease Control (CDC), the United States is currently in the midst of a mental health crisis. There are many factors that could be contributing to this trend, but La Valle also noted that one thing is certain: the world is finally starting to pay more attention to mental health.
“Mental health has always been important,” he said. “Current research just further strengthens the connection between mental and physical health.”
He said discoveries about this connection between mental and physical health have led to more conversations, helping to change the public’s perspective on mental illness at large.
“The stigma surrounding mental health has greatly dramatically declined and individuals are seeking support now more than ever,” said La Valle. “However, we still have work to do in letting people know it’s OK to not be OK sometimes.”
How Does Self-Care Fit In?
Any activity that keeps you healthy — physically, mentally, psychologically or socially — could be referred to as self-care, and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) notes that practicing self-care can have a major impact on your mental health.
Some common examples of self-care include:
Being in nature
Connecting socially
Doing breathing exercises
Engaging in physical activities
Limiting technology
“Engaging in regular self-care and taking care of your mental state should be scheduled into your daily routine just like doctor’s appointments, work and chores,” La Valle said. “Taking time for yourself helps to decrease burnout and allows you to be more present in the moment.”
Read More: What is Self-care and Why is It Important for You?
What One Psych Grad Learned About Anxiety
While seeking professional help is paramount if you’re struggling, there are small ways you can work to decrease your anxiety and improve your mental health throughout the day.
Christie Marsich ’25
For instance, SNHU graduate Christie Marsich ’25 said she regularly incorporates what she learned about mental health from her psychology program into her own life. She said human beings are neurologically wired to be on guard for threats, like bear attacks. But today, Marsich noted, people often feel anxious even when there’s no immediate danger.
In one course, Marsich said she learned to take a step back and identify her stressors when she experiences anxiety, writing them down in a list and circling the one that is the most triggering. Then, she asks herself: Where’s the bear?
“You remind yourself — there’s no bear in this situation,” she said. “You can’t be hurt from it.”
This technique is a form of self-care that Marsich said has worked for her, personally.
What Mental Health Resources are Available?
Reaching out for help might not always feel easy, but it can lead to healing. “Just as one strives to keep their body in shape, ensuring your mental health is also ‘in shape,’ means being the best person you can be,” La Valle said.
If you or someone you know is struggling, consult a doctor or clinician. To find care, you can reach out to your insurance company or use Psychology Today’s directory to find a mental health professional in your area.
For immediate help, the following services are also available in the United States:
Students enrolled at SNHU also have access to virtual counseling sessions and other mental health services through a partnership with Mantra Health.
“Feeling confident and being open about your own mental health can be really powerful,” La Valle said. “Don’t be afraid to put yourself first.”