1. Mental Health Awareness

2. What is Mental Health?
Mental health is a state of well-being in which a person recognizes his or her own abilities, can manage the normal stresses of life, can work productively and effectively, and is able to contribute to his or her community.

3. Mental Health Facts
1 in 4 American adults (approximately 61.5 million) experience mental illness.
50% of all chronic mental illness begins by age 14; 75% by the age of 24.
1 in 10 young people experience a period of major depression.
1 in 20 Americans live with a serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression.
Only 38% of adults with diagnosable mental health problems receive needed treatment.
Adults living with serious mental illness die on average 25 years earlier than other Americans, largely due to treatable medical conditions.

4. What does it mean to be mentally healthy?
Coping in a healthy way with unexpected events in life
A balance between feeling and functioning well
Being physically active
Social and emotional well-being
Managing the stress and emotions of everyday life in healthy ways and taking positive steps forward

5. Warning Signs of Mental Health Conditions
Feeling excessively sad or low
Excessive worrying or fear
Extreme mood changes
Prolonged or strong feelings of irritability or anger
Avoiding friends or social activities or an inability to handle daily problems and stress

6. Warning Signs of Mental Health Conditions
Changes in eating or sleeping habits
Thoughts about suicide
Hyperactive behavior
Substance abuse
Difficulty perceiving reality
Inability to carry out daily activities or handle daily problems and stress

7. Tips for Maintaining Mental Health
Exercise regularly and eat a
well-balanced diet.
Avoid alcohol and other drugs.
Get plenty of sleep.
Set aside some time for activities or projects you enjoy.
Take short breaks throughout the day to help de-stress.
Surround yourself with supportive friends and family.
Ask for help when you feel overwhelmed or if you are having difficulty coping with something.

8. Sources http://www.mentalhealth.gov/ http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/