Mental health is the ability to meet life’s challenges with mental strength and resilience. It is a core part of human development, and it enables us to function in society and contribute to our communities.
It is the ability to cope with a range of emotions and behaviours. It determines how we perceive and react to stress, our interpersonal relationships and decisions. It affects all parts of our lives, and is influenced by genetics, social environments, and other factors.
Across the world, mental health problems are a significant cause of illness and disability and a leading contributor to poor health. They can also increase the risk of physical illness and injury, which in turn increase the likelihood of death.
Most people have a mental illness at some point in their lives. But many of these disorders are treatable. Treatment includes psychotherapy (talk therapy) and medication. It’s based on an individualised plan developed collaboratively with the patient and their health professional, who may include family members as necessary.
Prevention is an important way of reducing the incidence of mental health conditions. It aims to identify those who are at risk, and encourage them to seek help early. It can be particularly helpful for children and adolescents, as it can help them to develop the emotional and behavioural skills that they need to cope with their developing identities and emotions.
Adverse childhood experiences such as neglect, violence and abuse can have a strong impact on your mental health, and are linked to an increased risk of developing some types of psychotic illnesses in later life. They can also make you more vulnerable to post-traumatic stress disorder.
Some common conditions include: anxiety, depression and schizophrenia.
Some of these conditions are treatable, but the most important thing to do if you are experiencing them is to talk to someone you trust. This could be your doctor, a psychologist or a counsellor.
The first step is to understand what a mental health problem is and why it happens. It can be hard to know what you are going through and what you can do about it, but you will be able to find information and support to help.
There are a wide variety of causes and treatments for mental health conditions, so it is important to get the right kind of help for you and your family. This helps you to feel better and improves your quality of life.
It’s also important to make sure that you have the resources you need, such as transport, food and sleep. You will also need friends and activities that you enjoy.
Most people recover from their mental health problems and can live normal, happy and productive lives. But for some, it can take longer.
Those with severe mental illnesses can experience serious difficulties at home, in school and at work. They often have problems communicating with others and dealing with emotions. They can be depressed, anxious or irritable, and their mental condition can have a negative impact on their physical health.