Mental health can be seen as a continuum, where an individual's mental health may have many different possible values. Mental wellness is generally viewed as a positive attribute, such that a person can reach enhanced levels of mental health.

even if they do not have any diagnosable mental health condition Mental health can be socially constructed and socially defined; that is, different profes -sions, communit ies, societies and

cultures have very different ways of concept- ualizing its nature and causes, determining what is mentally healthy, and deciding what interve- ntions are appropriate. Mental health is a continuum, with good mental health and wellness on one end, and severe, untreated mental illness on the other. When a person has “good” mental health, they deal better with what comes their way.  Bycontrast,“poor” mental health—feeling overwhelmed by stress or suffering with an untreated mental illness can make even day-to-day life difficult. Mental, or psychiatric, illnesses are a major public health concern. They adversely affect functioning,econom- c productivity, the capacity for healthy relationship and families, physical health, and the overall quality of life. They cut across racial, ethnic, and socioec -onomic lines to affect a significant proportion of communities worldwide.

Physical health affects mental health and vice versa. Check out our page of links to advice and information on healthy eating, exercise, tobacco, drugs and alcohol.The differenc- e is that people with good emotional health have an ability to bounce back from adversity, trauma, and stress. This ability is called resilience. People who are emotionally and mentally healthy have the tools for coping with difficult situations and maintaining a positive outlook. They remain focused, flexible, and creative in bad times as well as good. People who are emotionally healthy are in control of their emotions and their behavior. They are able to handle life’s inevitable challenges, build strong relation- ships, and lead productive, fulfilling lives. When bad things happen, they’re able to bounce back and move on.Many people believe that individuals are afforded good .mental health when society enables them to have a purposeful social, economic and cultural role. There is much evidence to suggest that connectedness and caring relationships are important components of wellness across the life-span.