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

But after an outburst by Scott during that hearing, McKenzie committed Scott to a state behavioral health program through the Missouri Department of Mental Health for a mental health evaluation, placing trial proceedings on hold again. —Kansas City Star, 7 July 2025

Much of what researchers found was already known, but the study paints a comprehensive picture by examining various aspects of children’s physical and mental health at the same time. —Jonel Aleccia, Chicago Tribune, 7 July 2025

From rising mortality rates to an alarming surge in chronic conditions, obesity and mental health struggles, U.S. children are facing a mounting health emergency that experts say demands urgent national attention. —Daniella Gray, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 July 2025

From non-invasive breast cancer screenings, blood pressure, and glucose tests to mental health check-ins and reproductive wellness, this is your chance to get real insights about your health—because prevention and early detection save lives. —Essence, 7 July 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