MENTAL HEALTH
WHAT IS MENTAL HEALTH?
Almost half of all Australians will suffer from mental health, in some degree during their life, the most common conditions being anxiety and depression. (*1)
Over 20% of Australians have taken time off work due to stress related illness or depression. (*3)
Over 35% of employed people do not wish to disclose their suffering of depression and anxiety to others (*3)
which makes the condition worse for many.
Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians aged between 15 and 44 years. (*4)
‘Mental Health’ is a term that is heard so often in our society, on the news and social media platforms. The rise in mental health problems caused by high levels of life-induced stress, uncertainty, change, and the Covid-19 pandemic that has adversely affected the world in a catastrophic way, has brought the topic of mental health to the forefront of conversation. However, the term ‘mental health’ is highly misunderstood, being confused through broadcast and conversations, as the description for conditions such as anxiety and depression or more severely, mental illness, such as schizophrenia, bipolar mood disorder and many other disorders. The true definition of mental health is not about illness, it is about mental wellness, which is the opposite of the stigma portrayed.
The World Health Organisation defines
mental health as:
“A state of well-being in which the individual realises 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”. (*5)
Based on that definition, it is important for all people to understand that “Adverse Mental Health” covers conditions such as depression, anxiety and stress related illnesses, whereas “Positive Mental Health” covers one’s ability to have mental strength, maintain a healthy well-being and the ability to manage life’s challenges effectively. “Mental Illness” covers disorders such as major types of depression, schizophrenia, bipolar mood disorder, personality and eating disorders, and more, which is vastly different from mental health.
ADVERSE
MENTAL HEALTH
Depression
Stress
Anxiety
Stress Related Illnesses
MENTAL
HEALTH
State of Well-Being
Able to Cope with Stress
Productive
Able to Contribute to Others
POSITIVE
MENTAL HEALTH
Mental Strength
Emotional Control
Healthy Well-Being
Resilience
Manage Stress Well
Confidence – Self-Worth
Positive Life Outlook
Driven to Achieve
Happiness – Fulfillment
Realise Your Full Potential
Positive Impact on Others
YOUR STATE OF MENTAL HEALTH
WILL AFFECT HOW YOU THINK, FEEL AND ACT.
This influences how you handle challenges and stress, the quality of your relationships, overall well-being and life outcomes.
