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

These measures improve a sense of safety on campus, and students feel their mental health needs are being met, Dorn said. — Cindy Von Quednow, CNN Money, 24 Aug. 2026

The Puerto Rican reggaetón veteran is recognized for championing education initiatives, mental health awareness within the music industry, and the growth of emerging Latino talent. — Veronica Villafañe, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 2026

Maryland health officials are launching a controversial program to help those with severe mental health challenges adhere to their treatment by using a court order to mandate that some patients comply with their medical plans. — Danielle J. Brown, Baltimore Sun, 23 Aug. 2026

The high amount of overtime at the mental health department is related mainly to nurses working at Whiting and Connecticut Valley Hospital, both in Middletown. — Christopher Keating, Hartford Courant, 23 Aug. 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