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

Cities should shift resources away from enforcement and toward permanent supportive housing, mental health care, and outreach services that build trust and stability. —Shianne Leclaire, Hartford Courant, 17 May 2026

For more strategies on mental health and young people, watch Redding’s TEDx and watch our full interview. —Julie Kratz, Forbes.com, 17 May 2026

With Palacio Films now fully launched, Nussenbaum is developing several projects spanning memory, mental health and identity. —Ben Croll, Variety, 17 May 2026

Families also face discrimination, which can worsen mental health. —Rhitu Chatterjee, NPR, 17 May 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