YOGYAKARTA – There are many types of mental disorders, but what are the criteria for a mentally healthy person? Carla Shuman, Ph.D., a professor of clinical psychology who opened a private clinic in Virginia, says that there are a number of characteristics that mentally healthy people have. For one thing, he has limitations in his relationships with other people.

He gave an example, someone who has good boundaries knows when to help others and when to do priority. In addition to what Shuman gave an example, here are the characteristics of a mentally healthy person.

1. Don't be jealous of what other people have

Comparing yourself to others makes life harder. A mentally healthy person doesn't want to spend time comparing himself to what other people have. He chooses to focus on what he wants and achieve it realistically.

2. Have something to achieve

How sad it is to live without a purpose. Not even have the motivation to achieve certain things. It may be as simple as getting together with the family in a quiet place for the holidays. Or maybe together with your partner watching a movie at home. Planning something to get a desire, a person will find satisfaction and pleasure in it. According to Shuman as reported by Psychology Today, Thursday, July 14, this is a sign that he is seeking positive experiences and reducing anxiety.

ciri ciri orang yang sehat mental
Illustration of the characteristics of a mentally healthy person (Pexels/Andrea Piacquadio)
3. Know how to let go of anger

Instead of yelling or hitting, releasing anger in an appropriate way also indicates that the person is mentally healthy. Conflict does trigger negative emotions, such as anger, sadness, and even loneliness. If you manage to let go of your anger and stop thinking about the people who have hurt you, you are more likely to find peace in your life and mental health.

4. Wake up with gratitude

When you're having a bad day or a bad week, you can look around and observe other people being happy. It may be difficult or miserable, but the ability to think about one thing you are grateful for each day is a way of surviving. This is a sign that you are driven to appreciate the good things.

5. Help others around

The most mentally healthy and resilient people, don't focus on themselves. They will continue to reach out to others and provide the best possible support. You don't have to do big things to help, but it's good enough to give care.

ciri ciri orang yang sehat mental
Illustration of the characteristics of a mentally healthy person (Pexels/Cottonbro)
6. Can take care of yourself

Mentally healthy people, care about others but do not escape taking care of themselves. A person needs to meet his own needs so that it is possible to help others. This is also related to how to build healthy relationships.

7. Keep trying even though it's hard

Desperation makes a person's motivation broken. But if you keep trying even though it's hard, then you are a mentally healthy person. Even though your energy is running low and hope is running out, you can ask for help and encouragement from those closest to you. But what is certain is that the process continues and never stops.

8. Enjoy the simple things in life

People who tend to maintain mental health, have positive experiences from doing simple things. Like taking a walk in nature, laughing with friends or loved ones, or listening to good music. You can also appreciate every experience even if it's not exciting or elegant.

9. Can be happy for others

Even when your own life is full of challenges, being able to let others know that you are happy for them, is an important aspect of mental health. This means that you can go beyond the struggle and pain on your own.

Those are the characteristics of a mentally healthy person described by Shuman. Is it all you have right now? If not, you can get them one by one through positive efforts in maintaining mental health.


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