Studies done at John Hopkins medicine show that 26 percent of Americans ages 18 + and about one in four adults suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder.

Mental health can have a positive effect or a negative impact on people. Several people view mental health as being one of their weaknesses and believe they are at their lowest point when experiencing poor mental health. Their loved ones around them may see them at their strongest when overcoming a struggle, however. Positive mental health can have a positive impact on people that leads to success and opportunities.

“Positive mental health is linked to positive student outcomes such as higher academic achievement, higher graduation rates, more positive school climate, decreased substance use rates, and decreased disciplinary incidents,” said Dr. Wes Clevenger, school psychologist.

Suffering from poor mental health may impact families and friends when one does not reach out and seek the help they need.

¨Talking to a family member friend or a trusted teacher or school staff can be a great start,¨ said Joe Alger, social worker.

Having positive mental health brings opportunities in life because people are more open and inviting when someone has a positive aura.

“In a longer-term perspective, positive mental health is associated with things like higher stable employment, higher earnings, better relationships, and less involvement with the criminal justice system over the course of one’s life,” Clevenger said.

In another long term perspective, having coping strategies can lead to lifetime helpful sources.

¨(Coping strategies include) eating healthy foods, getting exercise, staying connected and engaged,” Alger said.

Taking a mental break is healthy for one’s mental, spiritual, and emotional health.

Throughout the community, there are several areas where people can seek guidance and get help to cope. In a school, therapists, friends, family, or even hotlines can be a good resource.

“People can go to many places to get help on their mental health like a therapist, family, friends, or even at your school,” said senior Hannah Kregel.

Getting help may include talking to someone about your mental health or writing in a journal. It can also be productive to change one’s environment, like going on a walk or simply sitting in a different room, or simply taking a mental break. Taking a break from the situation you are in helps release the feeling of being overwhelmed and stressed about what is occurring.