Mental Health & Well-Being

Mental Health

A person’s overall psychological well‑being, including emotional regulation, thinking patterns, and coping ability.

Stress

The body and mind’s response to perceived demands or threats.

Healthy Stress (Eustress)

Positive stress that motivates growth, focus, and performance.

Unhealthy Stress (Distress)

Excessive or chronic stress that harms mental or physical health.

Brain Functions

Processes controlled by the brain that regulate mental and physical activity.

Thoughts

Internal mental processes involving reasoning, ideas, and problem‑solving.

Perceptions

The brain’s interpretation of sensory information.

Signaling

Electrical and chemical communication between neurons.

Physical Functions

Brain‑controlled bodily processes such as movement and breathing.

Emotions

Psychological states involving feelings, physiological responses, and behavior.

Behavior

Observable actions influenced by brain activity and environment.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers transmitting signals between neurons.

Neural Pathways

Networks of connected neurons transmitting specific information.

Neuroplasticity

The brain’s ability to reorganize and form new neural connections.

Neglect

Failure to provide necessary emotional, physical, or psychological care.

Resiliency

Ability to recover and adapt after stress, trauma, or adversity.

Stigma

Negative social attitudes leading to discrimination against people with mental health conditions.

Personal

Relating to an individual’s internal experiences, beliefs, and identity.

Perceived

How a person interprets or understands a situation.

VAR (Values–Attitudes–Responses)

Framework describing how values shape attitudes and influence behavior.

Mental Shift

Change in mindset that alters emotional responses and behavior.

Esteem Needs

Desire for self‑respect, confidence, achievement, and recognition.

Self‑Actualization Needs

Drive to realize one’s full potential and personal growth.