Dr. Nina Joy Mena, also known as Dr. NJoy, is a community psychiatrist based in Atlanta. She has developed a proactive approach to mental wellness, focusing on small, intentional changes that can significantly improve one’s mental health. Her method, known as “Inspire Joy,” consists of seven key areas: Integrity, Nurture, Stability, Purpose, Intimacy, Resilience, and Empowerment (Source: blackdoctor. org → thriving-through-chaos-changes-that-work → ). This framework for holistic well-being emphasizes that minor adjustments in these areas can profoundly impact mental health.
Dr. NJoy stresses the importance of self-awareness in managing mental health. She recommends journaling as a powerful tool to recognize the link between thoughts, feelings, and resulting behaviors. By being self-aware, individuals can implement coping strategies to manage negative thoughts and responses (Source: blackdoctor. org → thriving-through-chaos-changes-that-work → ). Dr. NJoy highlights the significance of practicing gratitude, as it can shift one’s mindset from worry to contentment.
She notes that “gratitude and anxiety can’t really function in the same brain; they can’t sit at the same table” (Source: blackdoctor.
The pursuit of mental health and wellness is a multifaceted endeavor, encompassing a range of strategies and practices that foster resilience, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is “a state of well-being in which an individual realizes their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of —, can work productively, and is able to make a contribution to their community” (WHO, 2019). This definition underscores the importance of mental health in overall well-being, highlighting its impact on daily —, relationships, and productivity.
Research has consistently shown that mental health and wellness are closely linked to —style factors, such as physical activity, sleep, and nutrition.
A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that regular exercise can have a positive impact on mental health, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression (Harris et al., 2006). Similarly, a study in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that mindfulness-based interventions can be effective in reducing stress and improving overall well-being (Kabat-Zinn, 2003). These findings emphasize the importance of incorporating healthy habits into daily — to support mental health and wellness.
The conversation around mental health and wellness has evolved significantly recently, with a growing recognition of the need ← →
○○○ ○ ○○○
To many, the concept of mental wellness can feel overwhelming, a huge goal requiring massive overhauls.
More takeaways: Check here
