mental health

noun

1

: the condition of being sound mentally and emotionally that is characterized by the absence of mental illness and by adequate adjustment especially as reflected in feeling comfortable about oneself, positive feelings about others, and the ability to meet the demands of daily life

also : the general condition of one's mental and emotional state

2

: health care dealing with the promotion and improvement of mental health and the treatment of mental illness

—often used before another noun

mental health professionals

a mental health clinic

Examples of mental health in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Girls in particular report drops in confidence, disrupted sleep, and heavier struggles with mental health. —Vibhas Ratanjee, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025

Be especially focused on grounding yourself and protecting your physical and mental health. —Kyle Thomas, PEOPLE, 14 Sep. 2025

Once Robinson’s mental health is assessed, Ormond says officials will determine which housing area is most appropriate for him. —Dalia Faheid, CNN Money, 14 Sep. 2025

Counselors can quickly assess and connect people to mental health and substance use disorder treatment. —Sophie Carson, jsonline.com, 14 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1650, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for mental health

• commonwealth
• telehealth
• bridewealth
• stealth
• wealth

Medical Definition

mental health

noun

1

: the condition of being sound mentally and emotionally that is characterized by the absence of mental illness and by adequate adjustment especially as reflected in feeling comfortable about oneself, having positive feelings about others, and being able to meet the demands of daily life

also : the general condition of one's mental and emotional state

Finding the flexibility and balance that is required for good mental health is a challenge we all face.

—Christy Turlington, Psychology Today

2

: health care dealing with the promotion and improvement of mental health and the treatment of mental illness : mental hygiene

—often used before another noun

mental health professionals

a mental health clinic