Definitions

Main Entry: mental health

Function: noun

: the condition of being sound mentally and emotionally that is characterized by the absence of mental disorder (as neurosis or psychosis) and by adequate adjustment especially as reflected in feeling comfortable about oneself, positive feelings about others, and ability to meet the demands of life

MedlinePlus Health Topic: Mental Health
Mental health is how we think, feel and act as we cope with life. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others and make choices. Like physical health, mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.

Staying mentally healthy is not always easy, especially during tough times. Here are some tips that can help:

• Get support from family and friends
• Find time to take care of yourself and relax
• Have a healthy lifestyle, with regular exercise

It is also important to recognize when you may need help from a professional. Mental disorders are common, but treatments are available.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health (currently the DSM-IV-TR) is published by the American Psychiatric Association. The DSM-V is due out in May 2013. Check your local library for a copy. A useful layperson's version is Caring for the Mind: the comprehensive guide to mental health by Dianna Hales and Robert E. Hales (1995).

  Mental Health Dictionary (NYU Child Study Center)

 Mental Health and a Healthy Lifestyle

 Mental Health - General Resources, including local organizations 

 Mental Health First Aid and Psychological First Aid 

 Developmental age and mental health

 Behavioral Health in Schools

 Mental Health Statistics

 Screening Tools/Psychiatric Evaluation 

 Suicide Prevention 

 Violence

  Adverse effects of medications and mental health

 Children of Mentally Impaired Parents
 
 Mental Disorders 

 Mental Health Therapies

 Substance-Related Disorders   

 Dual Diagnosis

For books and videos: try the Kreamer Resource Center for Families Library Catalog or try your local public library.

updated 10-18-2011