Mental health affects many aspects of our lives. It influences how we think and feel about ourselves and others. It also affects our ability to cope with change and adapt to major life events.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines mental health as:
“… 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.”
The Canadian Mental Health Association describes mental health as:
“… striking a balance in all aspects of your life: social, physical, spiritual, economic and mental. Reaching a balance is a learning process… Your personal balance will be unique, and your challenge will be to stay mentally healthy by keeping that balance.”