Do you worry a lot or feel like life's too hard? Are you experiencing loneliness and isolation? COVID and 2020 got you down? If so, you are not the only one.

Many people struggle with common and not so common mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety.

Nevertheless, just like physical illnesses, mental health issues are real medical conditions and are treatable.

What is mental health, and why is it important?

The term mental health refers to your state of mind. Good mental health is about feeling a general sense of wellbeing, confidence and healthy self-esteem.

Good mental health is important. This is not just so you can get through the day, but so you can form healthy relationships with others and lead a fulfilling life.

If you feel like you're not coping, the best thing you can do is ask for help. Just doing this might help you to start feeling better.

You're not alone

Many of us have mental health issues at one point or another in our lives. For example, we may experience problems to do with relationships, substance use or adverse life experiences.

While we all experience ups and downs in life, that’s normal, ongoing mental health issues can be a sign of a mental illness. Mental illnesses, such as depression and anxiety disorders, have a more significant impact on thoughts, feelings and behaviour than mental health issues and can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, mental illnesses can usually be effectively treated or managed.

Some of the most common mental illnesses are:

• depression

• anxiety

• schizophrenia

• bipolar disorder

• personality disorders

• eating disorders

Wellbeing

Mental Health is a very important part of your overall wellbeing, which can be described as judging life positively and feeling good. There are plenty of things you can do to improve your mental health and wellbeing. These include:

• exercising regularly

• eating well

• getting enough sleep

• spending time with friends

• sharing your feelings

• doing things you enjoy

• learning relaxation techniques

• practising mindfulness

Where to get help

If you need help, talking to your GP/doctor is a good place to start. If you'd like to find out more or talk to someone else, here are some organisations that can help:

• Head to Health (to find digital health resources)

• Beyond Blue (anyone feeling depressed or anxious) — call 1300 22 4636 or chat online

• Black Dog Institute (people affected by mood disorders) — online help

• headspace (online tools for young people)

• Mensline Australia — call 1300 78 99 78

• Lifeline (anyone having a personal crisis) — call 13 11 14 or chat online

Sources:

Head to Health (What should you know about mental health conditions and disorders?), Beyond Blue (What is mental Health?), Black Dog Institute (General wellbeing), headspace (Tips to keep good mental Health), Mensline (Men's mental Health - common challenges)