Understanding mental health has changed a lot over the years. But even with these changes, it's still hard to define and talk about mental health in our society.

In the past, people looked at mental health through moral and religious views. This often led to harmful labels. Those who struggled with mental illness were seen as either possessed or morally weak. This made their situation even worse and pushed them further away from others.

As we moved into the 19th and early 20th centuries, a new way of thinking came about. This was the medical model. While this approach brought some scientific ideas, it also had its downsides. People with mental health problems were mostly seen as patients who needed treatment, focusing too much on their symptoms. This way of thinking ignored their strengths and the social factors that influenced their mental well-being.

Today, we understand mental health better. We see it as a mix of biological, psychological, and social factors. But even with these improvements, we still face challenges. The broader definitions can sometimes confuse people and make it harder to grasp what being mentally healthy really means. For example, using terms like 'mental wellness' can downplay serious mental health issues that need professional help. It can also make it seem like the struggles of those who deal with severe mental illnesses aren't as important.

To improve our understanding of mental health, we can take several steps:

1. Education and Awareness:

   • Schools and communities should teach about mental health to help reduce stigma.
   • Awareness campaigns can show that mental health is complex, and it’s not just about illness vs. wellness.

2. Integrative Approaches:

   • We should use care models that include physical, emotional, and social health together.
   • Professionals from different areas must work together to support people as a whole, rather than looking at mental health as something separate.

3. Policy Development:

   • We need to push for laws that see mental health as an important public health issue, making sure there is enough funding and support.
   • We should back rules that protect the rights of people with mental health difficulties, so they receive the respect and help they need.

4. Community Support Systems:

   • We should strengthen local mental health services to provide easy access for those needing help.
   • Creating peer support groups allows people to share their experiences and heal together.

Even though our understanding of mental health has changed, there are still many challenges that need our attention. Through education, awareness, and ongoing efforts, we can build a community that truly understands, supports, and values mental wellness.