Emotional and Mental Health

Anxiety

Information & Characteristics:

  • Anxiety is characterized by excessive worry, nervousness, or fear that is out of proportion to the actual situation. It can manifest in physical symptoms such as increased heart rate, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating.

  • Common types include generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, and panic disorder.

Definitions:

  • Anxiety: An emotional state characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts, and physical changes.

Stress

Information & Characteristics:

  • Stress is the body's response to any demand or challenge. Chronic stress can lead to physical health issues and impact mental well-being.

  • Symptoms include irritability, fatigue, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances.

Definitions:

  • Stress: A physical, mental, or emotional response to external pressures.

Depression

Information & Characteristics:

  • Depression is a mood disorder with symptoms such as persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep, and difficulty concentrating.

  • It can affect anyone and varies in severity.

Definitions:

  • Depression: A serious mental illness that affects mood, causing a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest.

Shame

Information & Characteristics:

  • Shame is a painful emotion resulting from a negative evaluation of oneself, often triggered by perceived failures or shortcomings.

  • It can lead to social withdrawal, feelings of worthlessness, and self-blame.

Definitions:

  • Shame: An intensely painful feeling or experience of believing we are flawed and therefore unworthy of acceptance and belonging.

Emotional Disturbance

Information & Characteristics:

  • Emotional disturbances refer to conditions that significantly impact emotional or behavioral functioning, affecting learning, social interactions, and self-care.

  • Symptoms may include behavioral issues, mood swings, stress reactions, and interpersonal problems.

Definitions:

  • Emotional Disturbance: A condition exhibiting significant difficulty in managing emotional responses, affecting daily functioning and relationships.

Coping Skills

Information & Characteristics:

  • Coping skills are strategies and tools that help manage challenging emotions and stressful situations.

  • Effective coping can reduce stress, improve emotional regulation, and enhance mental health.

Definitions:

  • Coping Skills: Techniques that help individuals deal with stress and emotional distress.

Body Positivity

Information & Characteristics:

  • Body positivity promotes acceptance and appreciation of all body types, countering societal pressures and stereotypes.

  • It encourages self-love, confidence, and a healthy self-image regardless of size or shape.

Definitions:

  • Body Positivity: The advocacy of accepting and appreciating all body types.

Self-Esteem

Information & Characteristics:

  • Self-esteem refers to an individual's overall sense of self-worth or personal value. Low self-esteem can affect mental health and quality of life.

  • Symptoms include self-doubt, fear of failure, and an inability to accept compliments.

Definitions:

  • Self-Esteem: The subjective evaluation of one’s worthiness and capabilities.