The World Health Organization defines mental health as "a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community". It was previously stated that there was no one "official" definition of mental health. Cultural differences, subjective assessments, and competing professional theories all affect how "mental health" is defined. There are different types of mental health problems, some of which are common, such as depression and anxiety disorders, and some not so common, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

 

Most recently, the field of global mental health has emerged, which has been defined as 'the area of study, research and practice that places a priority on improving mental health and achieving equity in mental health for all people worldwide'.

 

Enjoying mental health means having a sense of wellbeing, being able to function during everyday life and feeling confident to rise to a challenge when the opportunity arises. Just like your physical health, there are actions you can take to increase your mental health. Boost your wellbeing and stay mentally healthy by following a few simple steps.

 

 

10 TIPS TO FOSTER MENTAL HEALTH

provided by the "Better Health Channel"

 

Connect with others. Develop and maintain strong relationships with people around you who will support and enrich your life.

 

Take time to enjoy. Set aside time for activities, hobbies and projects you enjoy.

 

Participate and share interests. Join a club or group of people who share your interests. Being part of a group of people with a common interest provides a sense of belonging and is good for your mental health.

 

Contribute to your community. Volunteer your time for a cause or issue that you care about. Help out a neighbour, work in a community garden or do something nice for a friend.

 

Take care of yourself. Be active and eat well – these help maintain a healthy body. Physical and mental health are closely linked.

 

Challenge yourself. Learn a new skill or take on a challenge to meet a goal. You could take on something different at work; commit to a fitness goal or learn to cook a new recipe. Learning improves your mental fitness, while striving to meet your own goals builds skills and confidence and gives you a sense of progress and achievement.

 

Deal with stress. Be aware of what triggers your stress and how you react. You may be able to avoid some of the triggers and learn to prepare for or manage others.

 

Rest and refresh. Get plenty of sleep. Go to bed at a regular time each day and practice good habits to get better sleep.

 

Notice the here and now. Take a moment to notice each of your senses each day. Simply ‘be’ in the moment – feel the sun and wind on your face and notice the air you are breathing.

 

Ask for help. This can be as simple as asking a friend to babysit while you have some time out or speaking to your doctor (GP) about where to find a counsellor or community mental health service. The perfect, worry-free life does not exist. Everyone’s life journey has bumpy bits and the people around you can help.

 

Download Mental Health Tips (PDF)

 

 

FURTHER WEBLINKS

 

Help Guide - Ask a therapist online!

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy - Comprehensive Mental Health Resource

Help Guide - Everythink you need to know about therapy

Where to Get Mental Help - by Stephen Barrett, M.D.

Online Mental Health Assessment Test

Do I need theraphy? (Online quiz)