What are mental health problems?

We all have mental health, like we all have physical health

That might be worth thinking about.

We all have physical health and we all have mental health. Each will vary from time to time. And it’s important we take care of both to promote our overall wellbeing.

We can all get mental health problems too

Actually, they might be more common than you think. One in four of us will be affected by a mental health problem in any given year. They are as real as a broken arm, and they can have a greater effect on everyday life – even though there isn’t a sling or plaster cast to show for it.

Some mental health problems are described using words that are in everyday use – for example, ‘depression’ or ‘anxiety’. The most commonly diagnosed forms are depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), phobias, bipolar disorder (formerly known as manic depression), schizophrenia, personality disorders and eating disorders. Common behaviours and symptoms associated with mental health problems include self-harm, suicidal thoughts and panic attacks.

How to help someone with mental health problems?

Find out more about how to talking about mental health can help people with a mental illness seek help and aid recovery. Read more from people who have experienced mental health problems in our blog section. Find contact details for help and support services.

Find out more about particular mental health diagnoses from Mind or Rethink Mental Illness.