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

Fall in Michigan means less and less daylight as the season goes on and for many that signals the start of seasonal mental health struggles, though coping strategies can help, experts say. —Jenna Prestininzi, Freep.com, 8 Sep. 2025

The reform would authorize the review board, also known as CLERB, to investigate actions taken by medical and mental health providers in the event of an in-custody death — an area of jail operations that has long remained outside of civilian review. —Kelly Davis, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Sep. 2025

The lower suicide rate is encouraging, but adults shouldn’t assume everyone is fine and forget about youth mental health, said Eddie Chen, a senior at Valor Christian High School and leader of the community action team with the Youth Council on Mental Health. —Meg Wingerter, Denver Post, 7 Sep. 2025

The award recognizes students for their positive efforts in raising awareness, effecting change regarding mental health and breaking down the stigma. —Magda Liszewska, Oc Register, 7 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