Mental health is about how people think and feel. How we think and feel affects our overall health and well-being and quality of life. Many factors influence mental health - housing, jobs, schools, transport, the environment - as well as they way we live our lives.

This section gives information about what you can do to look after your own mental health and the mental health of others.

Everyone has mental health needs. From time to time, most of us feel stressed, anxious, worried or afraid. We may also have experiences that are very difficult to cope with, such as losing our job or the end of a relationship. Being bullied, sexual or racial harassment, experiencing discrimination because of a mental health problem, not having a voice because we're too young, too old or simply different, can all have an impact on our mental health.

Doing something positive can make all the difference - for ourselves and for others.

Our Mental Health Topics A-Z offers information on problems, issues and treatment options, including the latest news, upcoming events and free, downloadable self help guides on issues relating to well being and mental health.

If you are affected by mental health problems, there are a range of services that can offer support. See our Service Directory for information about key organisations who can offer help and support with mental health issues.