Four pillars of mental fitness
We all know the importance of physical fitness in keeping us healthy and vibrant throughout our lives. What you may not know is that mental fitness is equally important. In fact, the two are mutually dependent. Supporting your mental health can make you more resilient to life’s ups and downs and more likely to make positive lifestyle choices. And if your body is functioning well, you’re in a better position to achieve mental fitness.
What is mental fitness?
Just as there are four components to physical fitness—cardiovascular endurance, strength, flexibility, and a healthy weight—there are four components to mental fitness. These are:
- Emotional. This includes self-acceptance, self-esteem, resilience, and the ability to manage strong emotions.
- Social. Friends are important because they bring companionship, support, and they enrich our lives. Considerable research has shown that people who have friends are generally physically and emotionally healthier and enjoy a better quality of life.
- Financial. The responses to an international survey of adult financial literacy suggest that a substantial number of people experience stress due to money issues. Financial wellness is not about having a certain amount of money at your disposal; it’s about feeling in control of your finances, being able to handle financial setbacks, and being on track to achieve your financial and life goals.
- Physical. Mental and physical fitness and health are connected. You can improve both through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and enough sleep. Exercise can also help you reduce your risk of developing chronic illnesses such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and depression.
Taking steps to build your mental fitness can boost your ability to cope with stress and improve your physical health, productivity at work, relationships, and overall happiness. If you would like more support as you work to build your mental fitness, contact your organisation’s assistance programme.
