Mental Health

What mental health means

Mental health is more than the absence of mental illness. Good mental health allows you to cope with normal stresses, work productively, maintain relationships and contribute to your community. A person can have a mental health condition and still have periods of good well-being, and someone without a diagnosis can still struggle.

Mental health is shaped by:

• biology: genes, brain chemistry, hormones, physical illness, sleep
• life experiences: trauma, abuse, loss, chronic stress
• social factors: relationships, isolation, discrimination, poverty, housing, work
• substance use

Common mental health conditions

Warning signs of a mental health problem

• feeling sad, empty or hopeless for more than 2 weeks
• excessive worry, fear or panic
• extreme mood changes, from very high to very low
• withdrawing from friends, family and activities
• significant changes in sleep or appetite
• low energy, or problems concentrating, remembering or making decisions
• irritability, anger or violent behavior
• using alcohol or drugs to cope
• unexplained physical symptoms such as headaches or stomach pain
• seeing or hearing things others do not, or believing things that are not true
• thoughts of death or suicide

In children and teens

• falling grades, refusing school
• frequent tantrums or irritability
• changes in eating or sleeping
• loss of interest in friends or play
• self-harm, such as cutting
• excessive worry about appearance or weight

Getting a diagnosis

A primary care doctor is often the first step. They will ask about your symptoms, how long they have lasted and how they affect daily life, and check for physical causes such as thyroid problems, anemia, vitamin deficiencies, medicines or substance use. Screening questionnaires such as the PHQ-9 (depression) and GAD-7 (anxiety) are common. Referral to a psychologist, psychiatrist, counselor or social worker may follow.

Treatment

Psychotherapy (talking therapy)

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): changes unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns; effective for anxiety, depression and many other conditions.
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): for intense emotions and self-harm.
• Interpersonal therapy, trauma-focused therapies, family therapy and others.

Medicines

Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medicines, mood stabilizers, antipsychotics and ADHD medicines are prescribed for specific conditions. They often take several weeks to work and should be stopped only with medical guidance.

Other support

• peer support groups and community programs
• collaborative care in primary care
• crisis services and inpatient care for severe illness
• employment, housing and social support

Looking after your mental health

• Sleep: aim for 7 to 9 hours for adults with a regular schedule.
• Activity: regular exercise reduces depression and anxiety symptoms.
• Connection: spend time with people who support you.
• Limit alcohol and avoid drugs.
• Manage stress: breathing exercises, mindfulness, time outdoors, hobbies.
• Set boundaries with work and screens.
• Ask for help early rather than waiting for a crisis.

How to help someone else

• Ask directly how they are, and listen without judgment.
• If you are worried about suicide, ask clearly: "Are you thinking about killing yourself?" Asking does not increase risk.
• Help them connect with professional help or 988.
• Remove access to firearms and dangerous medicines during a crisis.
• Keep checking in.

Frequently asked questions

What is mental health?

Mental health is your emotional, psychological and social well-being. It affects how you think, feel, act, handle stress, relate to others and make decisions. It is important at every stage of life, from childhood through older age.

What are the warning signs of mental illness?

Warning signs include persistent sadness or anxiety, withdrawal from others, big changes in sleep or appetite, extreme mood swings, difficulty functioning at work or school, substance misuse, hearing or seeing things others do not, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

How can I improve my mental health?

Regular sleep, physical activity, social connection, limiting alcohol, stress management and time for activities you enjoy all support mental health. If problems persist for more than 2 weeks or affect daily life, talk to a doctor or mental health professional.

Where can I get help for mental health?

Start with your primary care doctor, your insurer's behavioral health line, a community mental health center, or school or workplace counseling services. For a crisis or suicidal thoughts in the US, call or text 988, or call 911 if there is immediate danger.

Are mental health conditions treatable?

Yes. Most mental health conditions respond well to treatment such as psychotherapy, medicines or both. Many people recover fully or manage their symptoms well and lead full lives. Earlier treatment generally leads to better outcomes.