When we are emotionally healthy…

 

• We are at ease with ourselves and with other people. We are free to make good decisions about ourselves and are able to take responsibility for the decisions we make.
• We can form open and caring relationships with other people. We can accept love from other people and give love to other people. We can also raise our children in a safe, caring environment, where they can experiment and learn.
• We can develop and use all our mental and physical abilities to the fullest.
• We are happy and able to enjoy life, whether at work or at play.

But, some things may prevent this from happening:

Academic difficulties

Poor study habits Lack of school readiness Exam anxiety Lack of concentration

Failure at school, university or college Ineffective career planning Underachievement at work Fear of school

Emotional, physical or social abuse

Experienced as child or adult

Bad habits

Smoking Drinking

Overeating Nail biting

Negative thoughts about ourselves

Poor self-esteem Poor motivation

Failure to achieve our goals

Psychological problems

Phobias, such as fear of the dark, of heights, of enclosed spaces, flying Sleeplessness Anxiety and panic attacks Depression

Bed wetting in children Forgetfulness Hyperactivity in children

Problems in relationships

Ineffective parenting skills Marriage difficulties Poor communication

Divorce Death of a spouse or family member

Psychological factors

May lead to poor performance in academy, sport, work and performing arts, etc.

Stress in the work environment

Work pressure Uncertainty regarding the future Retrenchments

Unemployment Labour unrest