Taking Care of Your Mind
Read and practice vocabulary with this graded reading passage
Reading
For a long time, people didn’t talk about mental health. It was considered a private matter, something to deal with alone. Fortunately, attitudes are changing.
Today, we understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. Conditions like depression, anxiety, and stress affect millions of people worldwide. They can impact your work, your relationships, and your quality of life.
Dr. Sarah Kim, a clinical psychologist, explains: “Mental health problems are not a sign of weakness. They are medical conditions that can be treated. The most important step is asking for help.”
There are many ways to look after your mental health. Regular exercise has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Good sleep habits, a balanced diet, and strong social connections all contribute to emotional well-being.
Meditation and mindfulness have also become increasingly popular. Even ten minutes of daily practice can help reduce stress and improve concentration.
“I started meditating after a particularly stressful period at work,” says James, a 35-year-old accountant. “At first, I was sceptical. But after a few weeks, I noticed a real difference. I felt calmer, slept better, and was more productive at work.”
If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Therapy is not just for severe cases — it can benefit anyone who wants to understand themselves better.
Key Vocabulary
| Word | Type | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| mental | adj. | related to the mind |
| symptom | n. | sign of an illness |
| reduce | v. | make smaller or less |
| therapy | n. | treatment for illness |
| benefit | v. | be good for |
Comprehension Questions
- How have attitudes about mental health changed?
- What does Dr. Kim say about mental health problems?
- Name three ways to improve mental health.
- What was James sceptical about?