BEING healthy not only has to do with keeping your body physically fit, but also the mind. The mind is a powerful tool that we depend on to make decisions in our lives.

It is important that we ensure that we have positive mental health despite the problems we face in life.

Here are some causes of poor mental health:

Getting too little sleep affects the mind in a negative way. Many people believe that they can train their bodies to not require much sleep, but this cannot be done without any negative consequences. Sleep is needed to regenerate the body especially the brain so that it can continue to carry out its functions.

Depression not only makes people feel sad and dejected but it can also damage the brain permanently causing persons to experience difficulties remembering and concentrating. Signs of depression include having negative feelings and moods, negative thinking, low energy and motivation and social withdrawal.

Low self-esteem has to do with having little confidence in one’s own worth or abilities. A low self-esteem affects the mind and can lead to mental dysfunctions. You can improve your self-esteem by thinking positively about yourself and trying new things such as painting or taking dance classes. Mistakes that you make should never affect you but seen as a learning opportunity.

Abusing drugs affects the brain as it changes the way the brain works. Drinking is more harmful to teens than adults because a teen’s brain is still developing. Drinking during this critical developing period can lead to a lifelong damage in brain function, particularly as it relates to memory, the ability to move and co-ordination.

It is often said that food is good for the soul but it is also good for the brain. Here are some foods that when eaten will improve mental health.

* Tomatoes have been found to help mantain optimal brain health. Tomatoes contain an antioxidant known as lycopene, which combats radicals, which otherwise would decrease mental function.

* Strawberries have substances that have been found to cleanse the brain eliminating toxins.

* Whole grains, including wheat and oats, enhances the body’s ability and improve memory. Whole grains contain complex carbohydrates which are necessary energy sources for the brain.

* Omega-3 fatty acid improves learning and memory. This is found in fish such as salmon and tuna. It is recommended that these fishes should be eaten at least twice per day according to The American Heart Association.

In this new school year it is important to have great mental health so as to perform your best in classes. A healthier mind makes a healthier you!

— Sicourney Jackson