Mental Health and Life Skills: A Review

Abstract

In today’s contemporary lifestyle where the world is evolving quickly, a person must adapt and implement swift changes to align with the requirements of a changing society. To do this, one should have not only a healthy body but also a healthy mind. Over the past few decades, it has been noted that mental health issues are on a considerable increase. Therefore, mental health is acknowledged as a crucial component of an individual’s overall life and growth. Life skills, which have always been a key element of the Indian knowledge system or culture, come into play. The life skills are the daily abilities that one uses to handle and cope with life’s challenges. Life skills are essential in improving mental health by providing individuals with the resources necessary to face challenges, handle stress, and develop resilience. These skills, which include self-awareness, emotional regulation, problem-solving, and effective communication, allow individuals to respond positively to the demands and pressures of life. By fostering adaptability, critical thinking, and interpersonal competence, life skills serve as a buffer against mental health difficulties, reducing the risk of anxiety, depression, and stress. Grounded in positive psychology, life skills empower individuals to thrive, fostering well-being, social connectedness, and personal growth. These life skills are not only important for teens, adolescents but for adults as well. Once these life skills are learned, an individual can apply them throughout the life span. The present review focuses on understanding how the life skills act as a buffer against mental health concerns. This paper will help to understand the mechanism which works between life skills and mental health.