The seven criteria of mental health proposed in classical psychiatry represent the main signs that characterize a person as mentally healthy. These criteria were developed considering various aspects of mental adaptation, emotional stability, and social functionality. Here are the criteria:

Adequate perception of reality

   – A person can perceive the surrounding reality adequately, without significant distortions. This means a correct understanding of oneself, other people, and ongoing events.

Adequate self-esteem and self-perception

   – A person has a healthy self-esteem, realistically assessing their capabilities, strengths, and weaknesses. There is an absence of excessive self-criticism or, conversely, an inflated self-esteem.

Ability to control one’s behavior

   – A person is capable of controlling their impulses and behavior according to social norms and personal goals. There is an absence of impulsive or inappropriate reactions.

Ability for emotional self-regulation

   – The ability to effectively cope with emotional states such as anxiety, anger, or sadness. This implies the capacity to adapt to stress and restore emotional balance.

Maturity and stability in interpersonal relationships

   – A person can establish and maintain healthy, stable, and satisfying relationships with others, including the ability to achieve closeness and empathy.

Ability for productive activity

   – A person can work, achieve set goals, and develop their skills and abilities. This also includes deriving satisfaction from professional or other activities.

Harmony between aspirations and capabilities

   – A person finds a balance between their desires, needs, and what they can realistically achieve. They do not set impossible tasks for themselves and do not suffer from disappointments due to unrealistic expectations.

These criteria help assess a person’s mental state and their ability to adapt to their environment. If most of these criteria are met, a person can be considered mentally healthy.