MENTAL HEALTH LITERACY
Mental health literacy refers to our understanding of how to maintain positive mental health, which includes having knowledge of common mental disorders, recognizing common risk factors, and knowing how to seek support¹. Having mental health literacy contributes to better mental health for ourselves and our communities.
Here are four things to know about mental health that may increase your mental health literacy today:
EVERY PERSON HAS MENTAL HEALTH
EVERY PERSON HAS MENTAL HEALTH
Every individual must manage their mental health, every day. Mental health encompasses how we think, how we feel, and how we act. For example, managing stress well is an important part of managing mental health.
MENTAL ILLNESS IS COMMON
MENTAL ILLNESS IS COMMON
Half of the individuals in the United States will be diagnosed with a mental disorder at some point in their life². When we understand how common mental illness is, we can work to decrease the stigma surrounding it.
It is likely we all know someone with a mental health disorder; knowing the ways to support those individuals as well as ourselves is extremely valuable.
MENTAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH ARE RELATED
MENTAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH ARE RELATED
There is a positive association between strong mental health and physical health. Support your total wellbeing by maintaining a balanced diet, socializing with friends and family, exercising regularly, and avoiding substance use.
PREVENTION IS POSSIBLE
PREVENTION IS POSSIBLE
While mental disorders are common, there are multiple ways to prevent their development and progression. Engage in primary prevention through education, getting enough sleep, staying active, socializing with others, and practicing mindfulness¹. Practice secondary prevention by screening and receiving help early.