The World Health Organisation defines mental health as “a state of wellbeing in which every individual realises 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 refers to your psychological, emotional and social wellbeing, and affects how you think, feel and act. As such it affects every aspect of your life. To be mentally healthy should be a priority for us all, but unfortunately it is an aspect of health that is often neglected, or that we do not know how to care for.
What are mental disorders?
Mental disorders (also called mental illnesses) refer to a wide range of mental health conditions — disorders that have an affect on your mood, thinking and behaviour. Examples of mental illness include depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. You can find more information about mental disorders in the All Things Mental Health section of the website.
What is intellectual disability?
Intellectual disability is characterised by limitations in intellectual or mental functioning and abilities, as well as adaptive function and behaviour, which covers many everyday social and practical skills. The disability develops before birth, during early childhood or adolescence. Examples of intellectual disabilities include Down syndrome and Foetal Alcohol Syndrome. You can learn more about intellectual disabilities in the All Things Mental Health section of the website.