Mental health is defined as a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community. Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.
Fact 1 Around 20% of the world’s children and adolescents have mental disorders or problem
Fact 2 Mental and substance use disorders are the leading cause of disability worldwide
Fact 3 About 800 000 people commit suicide every year
Fact 4 War and disasters have a large impact on mental health and psychosocial well-being
Fact 5 Mental disorders are important risk factors for other diseases, as well as unintentional and intentional injury
Fact 6 Stigma and discrimination against patients and families prevent people from seeking mental health care
Fact 7 With proper care and treatment, between 70 and 90 percent of persons with mental illnesses experience a significant reduction of symptoms and an improved quality of life. (NAMI)
Fact 8 Financial resources to increase services are relatively modest
Fact 9 Mental illnesses are more common than cancer, diabetes, or heart disease (U.S. Surgeon General’s Report)
Fact 10 Mental illness can affect persons of any gender, age, income, race, religion, or culture. (NAMI)
Things You Can Do Ways to maintain positive mental health include: • Getting professional help if you need it. • Connecting with others. • Take part in enjoyable activities and learn to relax. • Getting enough sleep. • Developing coping skills. • Take part in enjoyable activities, helping others.