What is mental health?
Mental health is a person’s emotional and psychological well-being. It affects how we think, feel, act, and make decisions.
Why is mental health awareness important?
Awareness reduces stigma and encourages people to seek support from professionals, family, or friends. It helps communities understand, include, and care for those who are struggling.
What are mental health disorders?
These are conditions that affect mood, thinking, or behavior. Severity can range from mild to severe, and may impact daily life, relationships, and functioning.
What are some common types of mental health disorders?
- Anxiety disorders
- OCD
- Depression
- ADHD
- PTSD
- Bipolar Disorder
- Eating disorders
- Suicide-related conditions
- Substance Use Disorder
What is Anxiety Disorder?
A condition involving persistent fear or worry that can interfere with daily activities and well-being.
What is OCD?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder causes unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that can disrupt everyday life.
What is Depression?
A disorder marked by persistent sadness, loss of interest, and changes in sleep, appetite, or energy that affect daily functioning.
What is ADHD?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder involves inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that can affect school, work, and relationships.
What is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder can follow traumatic events and include intrusive memories, avoidance, negative mood, and hyperarousal.
What is Bipolar Disorder?
A mood disorder with episodes of depression and mania/hypomania, causing significant changes in energy, activity, and mood.
What is an Eating Disorder?
Eating disorders affect thoughts, emotions, and behaviors around food, weight, and body image. Common types include anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder. They can be serious and sometimes life-threatening without support.
What is Suicide?
Suicidal thoughts can arise from overwhelming pain, stress, or despair. With support, attention, and professional care, most crises can be averted. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, seek emergency help.
What is Substance Use Disorder?
A condition where repeated use of drugs or alcohol leads to dependence and harms health, behavior, and daily life.
Can children and teens have mental health disorders?
Yes. Mental health conditions can affect all ages. Early identification and support improve outcomes.
What causes mental health disorders?
Causes often involve a mix of genetics, brain chemistry, life experiences, trauma, and stress.
How can I support someone struggling with mental health?
Listen without judgment, offer consistent support, encourage professional help, and check in regularly. Respect their pace and privacy.
Is it okay to talk about mental health?
Yes. Open conversations reduce stigma, help people feel less alone, and can lead to understanding and healing.
Where can someone get help for mental health issues?
- Mental health professionals (therapists, counselors, psychologists)
- School counselors or trusted adults
- Support hotlines and community organizations
- Friends and family
See
Get Help for resources.
Can mental health disorders be treated?
Yes. Many conditions can be managed or treated with therapy, medication, healthy routines, and supportive relationships.