There’s no sure way to prevent mental illness. However, if you have a mental illness, taking steps to control stress, to increase your resilience and to boost low self-esteem may help keep your symptoms under control.
What causes mental health problems?
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Certain factors may increase your risk of developing a mental illness, including: A history of mental illness in a blood relative, such as a parent or sibling. Stressful life situations, such as financial problems, a loved one’s death or a divorce. An ongoing (chronic) medical condition, such as diabetes.
What do I do if I’m worried about my mental health?
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If you’re concerned about your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek advice. Consult your primary care doctor or make an appointment with a psychiatrist, psychologist or other mental health professional.
Are there cures for mental health problems?
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Treatment varies with the type of mental disorder but almost always involves psychiatric counselling. Sometimes medication may be prescribed as well.
What should I do if I’m worried about a friend or relative?
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You can call a crisis line or the National Suicide Prevention Line at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). If you think your friend or family member is in need of community mental health services you can find help in your area.
What causes depression?
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Depression has many possible causes, including faulty mood regulation by the brain, genetic vulnerability, stressful life events, medications
What is the best way to improve my mental wellbeing?
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Steps to mental wellbeing
Connect with other people. Good relationships are important for your mental wellbeing.
Be physically active. Being active is not only great for your physical health and fitness.
Learn new skills.
Give to others.
Pay attention to the present moment (mindfulness)
Are drugs or therapy better for mental health conditions?
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Research generally shows that psychotherapy is more effective than medications, and that adding medications does not significantly improve outcomes from psychotherapy alone.
What is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?
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A disorder characterised by failure to recover after experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is “a state of well-being in which the individual realizes 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”
a person’s condition with regard to their psychological and emotional well-being.