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U-M Counseling and Psychological Services

My Mental Health

Mental health has been defined as:

  • the successful performance of mental function, resulting in productive activities
  • fulfilling relationships with other people
  • the ability to adapt to change and cope with adversity or difficult life situations

Although different cultures have differing expectations for health, many of the following characteristics are likely to be present in individuals with good mental health:

  • a sense of well-being and contentment
  • self-confidence and self-esteem
  • the ability to enjoy life, to laugh and have fun
  • being able to deal with life’s stresses and bounce back from adversity with some resiliency
  • the ability to change, grow, and experience a range of feelings, as life’s circumstances change
  • the ability to care for oneself and for others

Body Dysmorphic Disorder

BDD is relatively common, frequently results in impairment in functioning, and is associated with high levels of perceived stress and suicide attempts.

General Information:

-Some research suggests that BDD may affect at least 1 in 200 people

-Treatment includes cognitive behavioral therapy and medication

Symptoms Include:

-Preoccupation with your physical appearance with extreme self-consciousness

-Frequent examination of yourself in the mirror, or the opposite, avoidance of mirrors altogether

Mental Health Screenings

Do you want to identify a mental health problem but don’t know where to start?

Do you have a friend or a loved one who is has a mental health concern and want to find out how to support them? See our Mental Health Topics index to search for your specific area of concern.

Self-Esteem

Understanding How You Feel About Yourself

Rachel Titiriga Photo

Depression

Did You Know?

Depression is more than feeling sad. It is normal to feel sadness or grief when a loved one dies, if you lose your job, you fail an exam, or a relationship ends. But sadness and depression are not the same. While feelings of sadness will decrease in time, depression can last for months or years without treatment. Depression is a long-lasting, often recurring illness that can have disabling effects on your mood, behavior, thinking, and health. It is not a “bad day” or a weakness in character.

Anxiety or Anxiety Disorder

What’s the difference between Normal Anxiety and an Anxiety Disorder?
 

Normal Anxiety: Occasional worry about circumstantial events, such as an exam or break-up, that may leave you upset    

Anxiety Disorder:  Constant, chronic and unsubstantiated worry that causes significant distress, disturbs your social life and interferes with classes and work

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