There is growing understanding of the critical role mental health plays in people's overall well-being in

today's lightning-fast and demanding world. While it is undeniably important to maintain good physical
health, this essay will make a strong case for why mental wellness is more important. This essay will
make the case that giving priority to mental health is essential for achieving holistic well-being by
examining the connections between mental and physical well-being, investigating the effects of mental
health on daily activities and life satisfaction, and providing concrete instances of Malaysian role models.

I. Understanding Mental Health: The Foundation of Well-being

It's crucial to understand how fundamentally important mental health is to total wellbeing in order to
establish its precedence. Emotional stability, psychological resiliency, and cognitive capacity all fall under
the umbrella of mental health. The ability to control emotions, enjoy fulfilling relationships, and preserve
life satisfaction all contribute to emotional well-being. Individuals with psychological resilience can adjust
to adversity, handle stress, and overcome challenges. Mental health is necessary for mental wellness,
including memory, concentration, and problem-solving.

Mental health is a condition of a positive mental state and not only the absence of mental illness. It is
the capacity to deal with obstacles in life successfully, uphold healthy relationships, and feel happy and
fulfilled. Without a strong foundation in mental health, people may find it difficult to achieve their ideal
levels of physical health and overall happiness.

II. The Interplay between Mental and Physical Health: A Bidirectional Relationship

Physical and mental health are interconnected dimensions rather than separate things, with mental
health having a big impact on physical health. If stress, anxiety, and depression are not treated, physical
symptoms including headaches, muscle tension, and digestive problems may develop. These
psychosomatic symptoms clearly indicate how closely mental and physical health are related.

Chronic stress, for instance, can lead to an overactive stress response, resulting in increased
inflammation, weakened immune function, and elevated blood pressure. The impact of chronic stress on
physical health is well-documented and can contribute to the development of various health conditions,
including cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes.

On the other hand, mental wellness affects physical health. Emotional sadness, a loss in self-esteem, and
a reduction in quality of life can be brought on by chronic illnesses, physical limits, or chronic pain. For
instance, those who have chronic pain may become depressed, anxious, or have a lower sense of
wellbeing. It is important to recognize that ignoring mental health reduces the possibility of experiencing
total wellbeing.

Understanding Malaysian role models' efforts to promote mental health awareness and support is crucial
to supporting the claim that mental health comes first.

Example 1: Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah - Promoting Mental Health Education and Support

Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, the founder and chairman of Sunway Group, has been at the forefront of
promoting mental health education and support in Malaysia. Through the establishment of the Jeffrey
Cheah Foundation, he has contributed to initiatives that focus on mental health awareness and
prevention. By supporting mental health research, establishing mental health centers, and providing
scholarships for aspiring mental health professionals, Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah emphasizes the
significance of mental health in achieving holistic well-being. His commitment promotes a friendly
environment for people who are seeking help while lowering stigma.

Example 2: Yuna, who uses music to speak out for mental health

Popular Malaysian singer-songwriter Yuna has promoted mental wellness using her platform. Yuna has
inspired people to seek care and assistance by candidly expressing her experiences with anxiety and
depression in interviews and via her songs. She has sparked discussions about mental health by working
with mental health groups, taking part in awareness initiatives, and sharing personal stories. Yuna's
advocacy work has increased understanding, dismantled cultural stigmas, and shown the transforming
potential of giving mental health priority in achieving total wellbeing.

Example 3: Datuk Dr. Andrew Mohanraj, a supporter of training and services for mental health
professionals

A well-known psychiatrist from Malaysia, Datuk Dr. Andrew Mohanraj, spent his professional life to
improving mental health care and education in his country. He has promoted more funding, better
access to mental health care, and decreasing the stigma of mental health conditions through his work at
the Malaysian Psychiatric Association. The knowledge and work of Datuk Dr. Andrew Mohanraj have
helped Malaysia create a more complete mental health system, ensuring that people have access to the
care they require for their mental health.

These Malaysian role models serve as excellent examples of the value of mental health through their
activism, projects, and knowledge. In order to combat societal stigmas, raise awareness, and create
welcoming conditions for people dealing with mental health challenges, they have made use of their
platforms and experience.

IV. The Impact of Mental Health on Daily Functioning and Life Satisfaction: A Holistic Perspective

Making mental health the number one concern has an important effect on daily life satisfaction and
functioning. A person's ability to effectively handle stress, make wise decisions, and preserve healthy
relationships is improved mental well-being. Creativity, productivity, and overall life fulfillment are all
supported by a strong mind.

1. Relationships and Emotional Well-Being: Developing and maintaining positive relationships

requires a strong sense of emotional wellbeing. People who are in good mental health are better
able to control their emotions, communicate clearly, and react to other people's emotions. This
strengthens relationships, encourages empathy, and raises relationship satisfaction in general.
 2. Performance and Productivity: Cognitive processes like memory, attention, and problem-solving
are all directly affected by mental health. Making mental health a priority can help people focus
more clearly, be more creative, and make wise decisions. This results in more success in both
personal and professional endeavors as well as enhanced productivity and efficiency.

3. Life Satisfaction and Resilience: Mental health is closely linked to both life adaptability and total
life satisfaction. People who concentrate their mental health have the abilities to deal with
difficulties, recover from failures, and navigate the ups and downs of life. People can have a
higher quality of life thanks to this resilience, which also helps people feel satisfied and fulfilled.

V. Addressing Common Illusions: Fighting Societal Biases

It is essential to clarify common beliefs that place a higher priority on physical health than mental health
in order to strengthen the case. These myths frequently result from societal prejudices, a lack of
knowledge, and a propensity to emphasize the outward manifestations of wellbeing.

1. Misconception: Having mental health indicates weakness.

Argument in favor of it: People from all walks of life suffer with mental health issues. It takes
courage and determination to seek support for one's mental health, and doing so allows one to
put their general well-being first.

2. Misconception: Physical health is more observable and quantifiable.

Argument in opposition: While physical health can be measured, mental health is just as vital,
despite not being as easily visible. All facets of life, including emotions, interpersonal
connections, cognitive function, and general life satisfaction, are influenced by mental health.

3. Misconception: Mental health problems aren't as serious as physical ones.

Argument in opposition: Mental health conditions can have a serious impact on a person's
relationships, everyday life, and general wellbeing. Neglecting mental health can make physical
health issues worse and make it more difficult for people to live happy, full lives.

We can encourage people to prioritize mental health care and advance a more thorough
knowledge of wellbeing by dispelling these common misconceptions and increasing awareness
of the significance of mental health.

Integrated Support Systems: Holistic Approaches for Optimal Well-Being

Holistic strategies that cover both mental and physical well-being are essential if mental health is to be
given true priority. Comprehensive care is ensured by integrated healthcare systems that combine
mental and physical health treatments.

a) Affordable Mental Health Services: It is important to make improvements to the accessibility and
availability of mental health services. This involves recruiting more mental health specialists,
offering affordable and easily accessible treatment alternatives, and incorporating mental health
assistance into settings for general healthcare.
b) Education and Awareness: Key elements of holistic therapies include advancing mental health
education and de-stigmatizing mental health problems. Education programs can emphasize on
resilience, understanding, and empathy while dispelling cultural prejudices and misconceptions
about mental health.
c) Collaboration and Support Systems: In order to build a supportive environment for mental
health, collaboration is required between healthcare professionals, community organizations,
and individuals. Helplines, support groups, and community outreach initiatives are examples of
integrated support networks that can offer people the tools and encouragement they need to
give their mental health the priority it deserves.

Conclusion

In order to achieve overall well-being, mental health is more crucial than physical health.
Through their activism, actions, and knowledge, Malaysian role models like Yuna, Datuk Dr.
Andrew Mohanraj, and Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah are excellent examples of the importance of
mental health. The connection between mental and physical health, the influence of mental
health on daily functioning and life satisfaction, and the need to remove misconceptions all
highlight the need of giving mental health top priority. We can create a society that prioritizes
mental well-being and helps people lead holistic, meaningful lives by acknowledging its
importance, promoting awareness, and using holistic techniques. Making mental health a
priority is not just important for one's own wellbeing; it also contributes to a better and more
empathetic society.