What is mental health?
The term mental health is often used interchangeably with emotional health and wellbeing. Our mental health is an important part of our overall wellbeing and can influence how we think, feel, cope, and connect with others.
Just like our physical health, our mental health can change over time. Sometimes difficulties improve with self-care and support from people around us, while at other times professional support may be helpful. Good mental health can be maintained with self-care, but if we experience a problem, it may not go away on its own. We may require further help, for example, through talking therapies such as psychotherapy and counselling.
In this video, counsellor John-Paul Davies MBACP, PG Dip discusses how we can take care of our mental health, stay in a calm and alive place, and how counselling can support us.
Types of mental health problems
Mental health problems can have a profound impact on how we think, feel and behave. They can range from worries we all have from time to time, to long-term conditions that require treatment to manage effectively.
Signs of a mental health problem
The signs of a mental health problem aren't always easy to recognise. Changes in how we think, feel or behave can happen gradually, and what they look like will vary from person to person.
One thing to remember is that there is no set list when it comes to the signs and symptoms of mental health problems. Each condition varies, and each individual is different too. If you are worried about your mental health, you should visit your GP for advice on what could help.
Explore our topics hub for more information about the different issues and experiences counselling may support with.
What causes mental health problems?
Mental health problems are complex, and there isn't always a single or clear cause. A combination of psychological, biological, social and environmental factors may contribute.
Psychological factors
A psychological factor is something that can affect our thoughts, feelings or emotional wellbeing. This may include:
- Traumatic experiences. Traumatic experiences, such as bereavement or a serious accident, can affect a person's mental health. A traumatic event can change a person's perception of the world, and as a way of coping, they may experience feelings of anger, helplessness, fear and guilt.
- Internal triggers. Internal triggers may also play a part in the onset of mental health concerns. Internal factors such as loneliness or social isolation, self-criticism and low self-esteem or self-worth, and long-term or severe stress can, over time, be detrimental to a person's mental wellbeing.
Physical factors
Physical and biological factors can also influence mental health. These may include:
- Genetics. Genetics may play a role in some mental health conditions, and having a family history of a particular condition may increase a person's likelihood of experiencing it.
- Head injuries. In some cases, a serious head injury may be associated with changes in mental health, including symptoms of psychosis.
Social and environmental factors
The things that happen around us can have a big impact on mental health. Social and environmental factors that may have an impact can include:
- where you live
- where you work
- the relationships you have with family and friends
- experiencing discrimination or stigma (e.g. racism, ableism, homophobia, transphobia).
Mental health support
Mental health support covers a range of things designed to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The most common types of treatments include talking therapies and medication.
If you are concerned about yourself or someone else, it is advisable to speak to your GP. They can talk to you about what you're experiencing and discuss suitable treatment or support options. Your GP will treat what you discuss confidentially, although in some circumstances information may need to be shared for safety or legal reasons.
Talking therapies and counselling
One way of managing the effects of a mental health problem is by talking about it. Talking about what you're experiencing can sometimes help, whether you're experiencing a mental health problem yourself or supporting someone else.
Counselling involves talking about your problems with a trained mental health professional such as a counsellor or psychotherapist. Talking therapies offer a space to talk freely, without fear of criticism or judgement, and can help you explore your experiences, feelings and ways of coping.
There are many different types of talking therapy that can help. These include:
- cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
- cognitive analytic therapy (CAT)
- creative therapies, such as art therapy, drama therapy and music therapy
- family therapy
- dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT)
- person-centred therapy
- psychodynamic therapy.
The type of therapy that may work for you will depend on what you hope to achieve from counselling, and the counsellor themselves. It's always worth asking questions about the therapist's way of working and discussing any concerns you have about a particular approach – together, you can work out whether you are the right fit.
Medication
Medication may be recommended for some mental health problems, either on its own or alongside talking therapy. If you have questions or concerns about medication, speak to your GP or another healthcare professional.
Self-care for mental health
Prioritising self-care is something we can all do to help maintain our mental health. This can be as simple as taking any prescribed medication and showering, or as big as setting boundaries, carving out time for yourself, and doing activities that make you happy.
When we look after ourselves, we give ourselves space to become more aware of our emotional wellbeing, so we can notice any signs that something’s wrong.
Living with mental health problems
Mental health problems are complex, and everyone's experience is different. For some people, difficulties may be short-term, while others may experience symptoms over a longer period. Mental health problems can also affect different areas of everyday life, including work, relationships and socialising.
Mental health stigma and discrimination
Unfortunately, the social stigma attached to mental health still exists. According to the Mental Health Foundation, nearly nine out of 10 people with mental health problems say stigma and discrimination have a negative effect on their lives. Other people's ignorance and lack of understanding can make it hard for people with certain conditions to maintain stable relationships and find work or suitable housing. Some may find themselves socially excluded from mainstream society.
Research and a greater understanding of some conditions have helped change views of mental health. However, sensationalised films, news articles and stories mean misconceptions still exist. In order to tackle damaging stereotypes, more needs to be done to broaden communication between people with mental illness and the wider community to help spread awareness and understanding.
Mental illness isn’t linear. It can be a struggle to live with, manage, and/or recover from. Then there will also be times when, although we may be ill, we feel we can go out and enjoy ourselves. But often the stigma we encounter can stop us from making the most of these moments.
- Writer Katie Conibear shares her thoughts on enjoying yourself while living with mental illness
Mental health at work and school
Work can significantly affect mental health. In 2024/25, 964,000 workers in Great Britain were estimated to be experiencing work-related stress, depression or anxiety. Mental health problems can affect people's experiences at work or school, including their wellbeing, relationships and ability to manage everyday demands.
Many people are reluctant to speak about mental health in the workplace because they fear they may be penalised or judged for it.
Young people in school worry they'll face criticism, alienation or bullying if their peers know they have mental health issues. While it can be difficult to talk about their emotional wellbeing with peers, colleagues and bosses, keeping an open dialogue in school and the workplace is important. This can help reduce stigma and prevent problems from escalating.
Mental health and relationships
Mental health problems can sometimes affect relationships, particularly when someone is going through a difficult period. Changes in mood, communication, or the support someone needs may create new challenges for couples, and it can take time to understand and adjust together.
Couples counselling can be helpful for people who want to communicate more openly and make space for change in their relationship. This type of therapy can help couples to learn ways of coping with mental health issues together.
Mental health and parenting
Experiencing mental health problems as a parent can bring additional challenges. Having the right support in place can help, and talking therapies, including child counselling or counselling for family issues, can support children and families through difficult times.
Talking openly about mental health with your children can also help them understand their emotions and learn about looking after their mental health and wellbeing.
Finding a therapist for mental health support
If you're experiencing difficulties with your mental health, talking to a therapist can give you a supportive space to explore what you're going through. The right therapist for you will depend on your needs, what you'd like support with, and how you'd feel most comfortable working.
You can use our advanced search to find a qualified counsellor or psychotherapist and learn more about their experience, approach and the areas they support.
