Mental health

The World Health Organization defines mental health not simply as the absence of a mental illness, but rather as "a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community." Good mental health is as important as good physical health. Mental illness (e.g., alternations in thinking, mood, and/or behavior) can impair individuals' ability to work, to raise their families, and to participate in their communities. Serious mental illness can lead to individuals harming themselves and/or others. In addition to affecting individuals and their families, mental illness imposes significant economic costs on communities as a whole (e.g., employers, government, health care systems, and the general public).

North Dakota Compass

Center for Social Research
North Dakota State University

Compass created by:
Wilder Research

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