The term ‘mental health’ refers to your state of mind. If your mental health is fine, you tend to feel confident and can deal with life and its challenges. On the other hand, if your mental health is not so good, life can seem a lot harder than it should be.
Good mental health is important.

This is not just so you can get through the day, but so you can build positive relationships with others, and enjoy and appreciate life.
Many people experience a mental health issue at some point in their life. But if things don’t seem to get better, it could be a sign of a mental illness.

Mental illnesses, such as depression, anxiety, personality disorders and eating disorders, have a big impact on how you think, feel and behave, and can make it difficult to cope with day-to-day life.

Just like other illnesses, mental illnesses need to be managed or treated to get better. So, if you think you could have a mental health issue, maybe you should consider getting help. You can contact your Regional Manager as a starting point or (see ‘Where to get help’ below).

Young adults and common mental health issues
Mental health issues are common. For example, at some point you may:

• feel stressed

• have relationship issues

• have financial worries

• develop a drug or alcohol problem

• struggle with work or study

• need help looking after a child

• have low self-esteem

• feel alone

   

  
  If you’re having a tough time with these, or any other issues, it doesn’t necessarily mean your mental health is in danger. But it’s worth talking to someone to get some advice.

  
  If you find yourself thinking about self-harm or suicide, it’s definitely time to get help — see ‘Where to get help’ below.

  
  How can I improve my mental health and wellbeing?
  There are lots of things you can do to get yourself into a better head space and improve your overall sense of wellbeing. Here are a few sugges- tions:

• learn more about your issue, and what can be done about it

• talk to your friends and family

• eat well and get enough sleep

• get some regular exercise

• make time to relax and have some fun

• if you’re using drugs or alcohol, cut down or stop