Mental Health and Wellness
"Mental health is not just the absence of mental disorder. It is defined as a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community."
- The World Health Organisation.
Having good mental health, or being mentally healthy, is more than just the absence of illness, rather it’s a state of overall wellbeing.
The concept is influenced by culture, but it generally relates to:
- Enjoyment of life
- Being able to set and fulfil goals
- Having the ability to cope with and ‘bounce back’ from stress and sadness
- Having the capability to build and maintain relationships with others.
The term ‘social and emotional wellbeing’ is used as it reflects a more holistic view of health. When one or more of these are missing from an individual’s life then it is worth considering support or treatment options.
What is Psychology?
Psychology is the science of mind and behaviour. Psychology includes the study of conscious and unconscious phenomena, as well as feelings and thoughts. It treats many mental issues and emotional difficulties by reducing or stopping symptoms so you function better and maximise your potential. Thought patterns and behaviours can be changed by looking at the effect of past or present relationships and experiences have had on your current behaviours and to sort out specific problems.
Psychologists may focus on behavioural analysis and how emotions and thoughts affect the way we look at the world and how we relate to it.
What is Psychiatry?
Psychiatrists treat conditions that often overlap with clinical psychologists, however they are able to prescribe medication and treat more severe cases of mental illness. You can see a psychiatrist when considering a more specialist review of any mood-related drugs prescribed by GPs, or if a psychologist feels symptoms can be relieved with these drugs whilst undergoing talk therapy. Psychiatrists work closely with psychologists and counsellors for a thorough review of mental well-being.
One Hatfield’s Mental Health and Wellbeing team treat patients with existing or new mental health concerns, including low mood, depression and anxiety.
If you are suffering with low mood, stress, or you feel anxious or pressured, speaking to a member of our team may be beneficial.
We accept referrals from GPs, other doctors working within One Hatfield Hospital or other units, and self-referrals.