In a wellness-oriented approach, what is the best way to view mental health?

• A. Only treat when there are severe symptoms
• B. Consider range of functioning and promote growth
• C. Focus exclusively on illness diagnosis
• D. Rely solely on medication

Answer: (B)

Wellness-oriented care treats mental health as a dynamic range of functioning, not just the presence or absence of illness. The best approach is to view mental health across emotional, social, occupational, and physical domains and to actively promote growth, resilience, and well-being. This mindset supports prevention and early intervention, helps people develop coping skills and supportive networks, and encourages lifestyle factors that foster flourishing even when challenges arise. Waiting until symptoms are severe is reactive and misses chances to strengthen functioning early. Focusing only on diagnosis reduces a person to a label, ignoring strengths and potential for growth. Relying solely on medication overlooks the important roles of skills training, therapy, and social or environmental supports in achieving lasting well-being.