Contentment, Mental Health, and Other Matters
Contentment has got nothing to do with what you have or don’t have!
The earlier we comprehend the detrimental impact of a lack of contentment in relation to mental health challenges and overall well-being, the better. A lack of contentment influences our mindset, significantly affecting our cognitive framework. It impacts our individual decisions, judgments, choices, and fosters unnecessary competitive and rivalrous attitudes, which often puts our mood and behavior under pressure. The primary issue is that a lack of contentment leads to dissatisfaction with one’s current life situation or state of affairs.
What we fail to understand :
Regardless of our level of contentment, situations naturally exist. However, the worry and unsatisfactory state of mind cannot alter this reality but rather leads to mental health challenges. Conversely, a lack of contentment can result in a life that is not truly our own.
Contentment explained :
Contentment is a state of satisfaction with one’s current life circumstances. This state of contentment leads to inner peace and acceptance of one’s situation. For instance, the pursuit of cosmetic surgery, such as nose, buttock, breast, facial, and skin color changes, including makeup to alter one’s appearance, may indicate a lack of contentment and low self esteem.
Mental Health effect of lack of contentment :
A lack of contentment can lead to low self-esteem, fostering doubt and unhealthy rivalries that may contribute to cognitive decline. This can motivate offending behavior, breed jealousy, and hinder the unlocking of one’s potential. Furthermore, it can prevent us from recognizing the efficacy of gratitude, as we may be trying to become what we are not naturally meant to be. Instead, we should be content with what we have and express gratitude, as it is not possible to obtain everything we desire. Additionally, God, our Creator, has made it clear that no matter who we are or what we have, we may not possess everything. We are encouraged to be content with what God has given us and live to express gratitude at all times in order to achieve inner peace. Contentment is a crucial component of mental well-being, as it regulates our emotions and mood, shielding us from the unnecessary pressure to constantly strive for more.
Way out (Mental health Approach)
Experiencing contentment can lead to heightened happiness, reduced anxiety, and a more optimistic outlook on life. Accepting the present moment and practicing gratitude for one’s blessings is a powerful remedy for mental well-being. Another aspect of contentment is contentment with one’s life. This mindset prevents us from being overwhelmed by worry or dissatisfaction, effectively managing stress.
It is important to note that contentment here does not equate to complacency. Instead, it serves as a strong foundation for pursuing our goals and overcoming challenges through a positive mindset.
Practicing mindfulness can be an effective tonic for contentment. Additionally, it is recommended to focus on achievable goals that align with values, morals, standards, and discipline. Avoid striving for unattainable perfection and engage in activities that promote physical and mental health, such as maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in sports, and ensuring adequate sleep.
The writer, Coach Ebere Amaraizu is a certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) coach. He is also a U.S. Govt IVLP Alumni and a trainer & Expert on PREVENT SOC’s Policing. He is currently the pioneer Chairman of Rangers international Football Club Foundation and Lead Consultant at Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation / COLI Mental Health Academy.