What is mental health?

Mental health is an expression that is frequently misunderstood.  ‘Mental health’ is often used as a substitute for mental health conditions – such as depression, anxiety conditions, schizophrenia and others.  

According to the World Health Organisation, mental health is "a state of well-being in which every individual realises their potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to [their] community".

Staying mentally healthy

Keeping mentally healthy is just as important as staying physically healthy and now the City of Fremantle has partnered with the Mentally Healthy WA Act-Belong-Commit campaign it has never been easier.

Act – “Do Something:

Keep mentally, physically, socially, culturally and spiritually active

• Read a book
• Take  walk
• Chat to a friend

Belong - “Do Something with Someone”

Keep connected to friends, family and community

• Join a group or club
• Take a dance class
• Go to a community program or event – check out What’s on for the latest happenings in Fremantle

Commit – “Do something meaningful”

Make a deeper commitment to personal pursuits

• Volunteer
• Set a personal challenge – physical or mental
• Help out a friend or neighbour

Take the A-B-C  test now to see how involved you are in mentally healthy activities.

For more inspiration to live the Act-Belong-Commit lifestyle you can find activities and programs to suit all tastes here:

What’s On
Curious
Act-Belong-Commit Activity Finder

What is a mental health condition?

A mental health condition is a general term for a diagnosable issue that affects the way a person thinks, acts or feels. Mental health conditions vary in degree of severity and duration and may come and go throughout a person’s lifetime. Examples of mental health conditions include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and eating disorders.

In Australia approximately one in five will experience some form of mental health condition every year, while one in two will experience a mental health condition within some point of their lives. The three most common mental health conditions in Australia are anxiety, depression and substance use disorders.

When you need help

There are a number of resources and services available so whether you are looking for help for yourself or others the most important thing is that you find the right service.  Your local GP or health centre is a great place to start, alternatively visit the Mental Health Commission website for a comprehensive list of services and resources.

Useful links

Act Belong Commit
Lifeline - 13 11 14
Beyond Blue
Headspace
Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800
Suicide Call Back Service