Mental health is the total state of well-being of an individual, the ability to deal with issues, develop and grow and have a positive impact on society

Mental ill-health can be described as a negative shift in the level of feelings/ happiness, satisfaction or behaviour of a person. it is a noticeable dip in a person’s outlook on life, the perception of self and reaction to issues or circumstance.

The main components of mental well-being are; Resilience and Positive and Supportive Relationships

Resilience: According to Oxford dictionary resilience means “the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties, toughness, the ability of a substance or object to bounce back into shape.” In the context of mental health, resilience means the ability of an individual to bounce back to their original state of well-being after a very difficult experience. For example, a person who experienced the loss of a close relative would naturally feel sad and might even keep to him/herself for a time but after a while becomes their usual cheerful self and goes about their business and is not withdrawn. He/she chooses to reflect more on the good times spent with the departed rather than the loss. This person is said to demonstrate a high level of resilience to negative circumstances.

 Positive and Supportive Relationships: Good relationships are symbiotic in nature, which is a very important component of mental wellbeing. It is necessary to have a good support network of people around from whom you gain from and vice-versa. People who will not hide from telling you the truth when needed but will also encourage you when the need arises. You are able to make a positive contribution to the growth and development of people and you are also to receive instruction, encouragement from others

Life is unpredictable and full of ups and downs. Situations and circumstances that can cause undue stress and other negative emotions. Being resilient would enable an individual to balance their emotions and cope better in after such difficult and adverse times. A resilient individual has the quality that enables him/her to return back to his/her original state emotionally after a difficult experience such as loss of a loved one, long-term illness or financial stress. It will prevent the person from staying in a place of low spirits and sadness for a long time.

Supportive relationships are equally important in enabling and promoting mental well-being. Good relationships are known to promote health and reduce stress. You are surrounded by people who give you unconditional positive regard, challenge you when and where necessary and applaud your success.