Mental health is about emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Poor mental health occurs when demands placed on a person exceed their available resources or ability to cope.

Poor mental health is not the same as mental illness. Individuals with mental illness can be physically active, mentally alert and have good social well-being.

Thoughts about finances, relationships, loneliness, physical appearance, bullying or addiction can affect people’s mental health and actually cause physical illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease or stroke. 

Everyone will experience a stressful mental health incident during their lives. In fact, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 75% of Americans experience poor mental health by the age of 24.

When you or a friend are mentally overwhelmed, it is important to recognize what is happening, obtain or provide support, and to know the facts about mental health and how to obtain help, when needed.

To learn more about resources to support your mental wellbeing, click here to visit the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health.