Mental Health

What is mental health?

Mental health includes our social, psychological, and emotional wellbeing. It affects how we think, feel, and act, and plays an important role in how we handle everyday challenges, make decisions, and build relationships.

Although the term “mental health” is often associated with mental health problems, it’s important to remember that everyone has mental health — just like we all have physical health. Our mental health can fluctuate over time; there will be periods when we feel strong and balanced, and times when we may struggle or feel low.

Mental ill health is a term used to describe a range of conditions that can affect a person’s thoughts, feelings, or behaviour. These may include anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), eating disorders, and psychosis, among others.

If you have any concerns about mental health — whether for yourself or someone else — please reach out to your school’s safeguarding team. They can offer support, advice, and signposting to additional help if needed.

Children’s mental health – Every Mind Matters – NHS (www.nhs.uk)