Knowledge Vs. Wisdom: Comparing The Two In The Context Of Mental Health

The terms “knowledge” and “wisdom” are often used interchangeably—but in reality, they represent two distinct concepts. While knowledge is typically gained from learning concrete facts and concepts, wisdom is a type of applied knowledge that allows one to make pragmatic yet compassionate decisions in different areas of life based on both knowledge and past experience. Read on for more information on both of these concepts as well as an exploration of their roles in mental health.

Defining knowledge and wisdom

Knowledge, or information and understanding about a particular subject, can be accumulated through reading, studying, listening, and observing. It’s about gathering data and understanding the core, practical details of something. For example, knowing the steps to make a fruit salad and knowing that it can be a nutritious snack is an example of knowledge.

Wisdom goes beyond the facts. Instead, it represents the ability to apply knowledge in a practical, meaningful, and ethical way. When considering the fruit salad example, wisdom could look like choosing to make that dish over eating a slice of cake as your evening snack because you know from experience that you tend to sleep better when you have less refined sugar. Or, it could look like choosing the cake instead as a source of joy and knowing that being hard on yourself about it hasn’t been productive in the past. Wisdom generally involves discerning what is applicable and right in a given situation from both the knowledge and the experience you have gained thus far.

While these two concepts are distinct, they are inherently related. Wisdom is the appropriate application of knowledge. One can be knowledgeable without being wise, but wisdom inherently requires some level of knowledge. Knowledge is about knowing the concepts, while wisdom is translating your learnings into smart, beneficial decisions.

Knowledge, wisdom, and mental health

In the context of mental health, both knowledge and wisdom can play pivotal roles. Knowledge about mental health can allow one to recognize false information, reduce stigma, and become aware of facts and resources. For instance, knowing the symptoms of depression, the impact of stress on the body, or the role of neurotransmitters in mood regulation are examples of valuable pieces of knowledge in the realm of mental health.

Developing knowledge and wisdom for mental health

Knowledge can be developed through education, reading, research, and conversation. Many resources, both offline and online, can provide valuable knowledge about mental health, such as books, articles, seminars, podcasts, and classes. However, developing wisdom often requires lived experience, introspection, and practical and ethical considerations as well. The amount of wisdom you have can increase as you navigate life's challenges, learn from your experiences, and strive to live a life that’s aligned with your values. 

Therapy can be a powerful tool for fostering and applying wisdom. It can represent a space where you can explore your experiences, understand yourself more deeply, and devise healthier ways of approaching challenges. Developing wisdom during therapy sessions may involve asking deeper questions about the nature of your mental state, your reactions to various situations, and your patterns of thought and behavior. It’s also worth noting that research suggests higher levels of wisdom are often associated with improved mental health, perhaps because “wise persons enhance mental health by pursuing meaningful activities.” Therapy can give you the opportunity to learn and apply knowledge about such activities in order to improve your mental health and emotional regulation abilities as well.

How knowledge can benefit you in therapy

Knowledge in mental health is about understanding the dynamics of your mental states, being aware of the symptoms and effects of mental health conditions like stress, anxiety, and depression, and learning about therapeutic strategies that may help. A person who is knowledgeable about mental health will know the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, the benefits of regular physical exercise and nutrition, and the value of connecting with others for emotional support, for instance.

How wisdom can benefit you in therapy

On the other hand, wisdom can empower people to navigate the complexities of their mental health journeys more effectively. It can look like understanding the transient nature of emotions, practicing self-compassion, and maintaining a positive outlook when facing adversity. Wisdom can also involve trusting the therapy process, even when it feels difficult. It enables you to apply knowledge in a way that supports your mental health and overall well-being.

The relationship between knowledge and wisdom is dynamic and reciprocal. With knowledge, you can better understand the intricacies of your emotional functioning, and with wisdom, you may be able to apply practical, individualized strategies to navigate them more effectively. Ultimately, it can be beneficial to integrate both knowledge and wisdom for a holistic approach to your mental health.

The role therapy can play in gaining knowledge and wisdom

For many, the journey toward knowledge and wisdom is an ongoing process that evolves as they grow, learn, and experience life. Therapy can represent a powerful resource in this process. It can equip them with the necessary tools to navigate the complexities of mental health and develop both wisdom and knowledge in this realm.

If you’re interested in pursuing therapy, you can generally choose between in-person and online sessions. For those who don’t have time to travel to and from in-office appointments or who simply feel more comfortable meeting with a provider from home, online therapy may be worth considering. Studies suggest that online therapy can be as effective as face-to-face therapy for treating various mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Ultimately, you’re likely to have the best results with whichever format makes you feel most comfortable.