Dr Daniel Page
Dr. Daniel Page is a South African entrepreneur, researcher, and global mental health advocate. As the founder and CEO of Psyche Innovations, he develops digital tools to make mental health care accessible, affordable, and evidence-based globally, particularly for underserved communities. With a PhD in Psychology from the University of Queensland, Dr. Page’s research focuses on building resilience and promoting mental well-being in youth and adults. Driven by the personal loss of his brother to suicide, his mission is to transform how mental health is addressed globally. Dr. Page is a multi published researcher and grant recipient, and is recognised as a leader by the American Psychological Association.
Mental Health: A Journey, Not a Dichotomy
by Dr Daniel Page
Many of us mistakenly think of mental health as something binary—you’re either mentally healthy or you’re not, right? But mental health isn’t just the absence of illness or the presence of happiness. It’s an essential part of overall well-being, just as vital as physical health. Like physical health, it exists on a continuum—ranging from thriving on one end to struggling on the other.
Unfortunately, many people still view mental health as a polarity: either you’re “fine” or you’re “in crisis.” In reality, it’s much more nuanced. Throughout life, we move up and down this continuum, shifting as we encounter stressors, challenges, and moments of joy. So, what does this mean for you?
Most of us approach mental well-being reactively, seeking help only after warning signs have turned into crises. It’s like going to the doctor only after ignoring symptoms for months—or being surprised by health issues after never exercising or eating well. Just as we don’t wait for a heart attack to start exercising, we shouldn’t wait for a mental breakdown to take care of our mental health.
Think about it: when you brush your teeth, eat a balanced diet, and stay active, you’re not just preventing illness—you’re investing in long-term health. The same principle applies to mental well-being. By managing stress, working on emotional regulation, and building resilience, you create a buffer that helps you navigate life’s inevitable storms. So why don’t we treat mental health with the same care?
The Shift Towards Proactive Mental Well-being
Thankfully, the world is waking up to the importance of proactive mental health. More people now see the benefits of improving their mental well-being before issues arise. So, when asked, “If your life could be healthier, happier, and more harmonious, wouldn’t you want to pursue it?” the response is always, “Yes, but where do I start?”
That’s where things get tricky. We live in a world that offers quick-fix solutions—whether it’s a trendy ice bath or a miracle pill—but the truth is, mental well-being is more like maintaining a balanced diet. There is no instant remedy. Real improvement takes time, effort, and consistency.
The Building Blocks of Mental Health
Understanding the building blocks of mental health is the first step. These elements can be strengthened through learning new skills, developing competencies, and making positive behaviour changes.
At Psyche Innovations, we emphasise evidence-based approaches to help individuals develop these skills and take control of their mental health journey.
Mental Skills Training
Developing mental health is about building a psychological toolkit—skills that apply in everyday life. These might include managing stress, practising mindfulness, or building confidence through self-talk. Like tools for physical tasks, these mental skills help you handle emotional challenges, foster focus, and build resilience.
Goal-Setting for Success
A key part of mental well-being is setting goals that feel achievable. Using SMART goal-setting, individuals break larger objectives into manageable steps, stacking smaller wins for visible progress.
Resources for Growth
For those looking to take the next step in their mental health journey, we offer a range of tools and resources to guide the way. Check out the Psyche: Mental Health app and see what we are up to on social media.