What is mental health?

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological and social wellbeing. It affects how we think, feel and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others and make choices. Good mental health is essential at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.

If you experience mental health problems throughout your life, your thoughts, mood and behavior could be affected. Many factors contribute to mental health concerns, including:

• Biological factors, such as genes or brain chemistry
• Life experiences, such as trauma or abuse
• Family history of mental health concerns

Mental health concerns are common, but help is available. With support, those with mental health concerns often recover completely.

Mental health first aid has three distinct steps

Click the buttons to learn more about these steps and how you can help someone who is struggling.