GOOD MENTAL HEALTH
by J. Kent Griffiths, DSW
These are some of the characteristics of people with good mental health. How close are you to mental wellness?
They feel comfortable about themselves.
They are not bowled over by their own emotions - by their fears, anger, love, jealousy, guilt or worries.
They can take life's disappointments in their stride.
They have a tolerant, easy-going attitude towards themselves as well as others.
They can laugh at themselves.
They neither under-estimate nor over-estimate their abilities.
They can accept their own shortcomings.
They have self-respect.
They feel able to deal with most situations that come their way.
They get satisfaction from the simple, every day pleasures.
They feel right about other people.
They are able to give love and to consider the interests of others.
They have personal relationships that are satisfying and lasting.
They expect to like and trust others, and take it for granted that others will like and trust them.
They respect the many differences they find in people.
They do not push people around, nor do they allow themselves to be pushed around.
They can feel they are part of a group.
They feel a sense of responsibility to their neighbors and fellow men.
They are able to meet the demands of life.
They do something about their problems as they arise.
They accept their responsibilities.
They shape their environment whenever possible; they adjust to it whenever necessary.
They plan ahead but do not fear the future.
They welcome new experiences and new ideas.
They make use of their natural capacities.
They set realistic goals for themselves.
They are able to think for themselves and make their own decisions.
They put their best effort into what they do, and get satisfaction out of doing it.
Copyright J. Kent Griffiths,1998