The World Health Organization defines mental health as “a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.” Mental health affects an individual’s ability to enjoy life and to create a balance between normal life activities and psychological resilience. Resilience is an individual’s ability to adapt to adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats, or significant sources of stress. Mental health can also be defined as an expression of emotions and successful adaptation to a range of life’s inevitable challenges that we often can’t control. Good mental health can enhance one’s life, while mental health problems can interfere with living a normal life. An individual’s mental and emotional health can also impact physical health.

Mental health problems vary in intensity and longevity, and can affect self-esteem, relationships, and the ability to function in everyday life. When problems occur, in order to improve mental and emotional health, the root of the issue has to be resolved. Before there can be any resolution, the problem must be identified. Sometimes problems stem from a recent situation, and sometimes problems are deeply rooted, previously dormant life experiences that have never been addressed. Mental health symptoms can range from a general feeling of discomfort to depression and anxiety.

The skilled therapists at New Leaf Center have many years of knowledge, experience, and training that allows them to evaluate and identify problem areas, and to recommend appropriate treatment options.