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

Their advocacy reflects a growing consensus that social media’s negative effects on kids’ mental health and social lives outweigh the benefits. —Ramesh Ponnuru, Washington Post, 12 Mar. 2026

In multiple tests, the chatbots appeared to recognize violent intent in users’ questions, responding with expressions of concern and referrals to mental health support resources. —Allison Gordon, CNN Money, 11 Mar. 2026

And as the market has grown, scientists and public health advocates have become increasingly alarmed that young men who participate in sports betting may be at a heightened risk of negative physical and mental health consequences. —Claire Cameron, Scientific American, 11 Mar. 2026

An on-site food pantry is part of Integral Care's programming aimed at improving mental health. —Nicole Villalpando, Austin American Statesman, 11 Mar. 2026

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