Back to Basics: What is Mental Health?

We believe that understanding what mental health really means is the first step in caring for it. We’ve already touched on therapy and crisis support, but let’s take a step back …

The truth is: we all have mental health. It’s not something that only matters when things go wrong or when we have a diagnosis. Mental health is about our emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing. Simply put, how we think, feel, and behave in everyday life.

Just like physical health, it changes over time. Some days it feels strong and balanced; other days it can feel fragile, and that’s completely normal.

What Can Affect Mental Health?

Someone’s mental health can change for many reasons, including:

• Stress and life events (exams, work pressure, relationship changes)

• Sleep and rest (too little, poor quality, or disrupted sleep)

• Physical health (illness, chronic conditions, pain)

• Support networks (family, friends, community)

• Environment (school, work, housing, safety)

All these things can work together at times, building resilience, but sometimes they can make things harder to manage.

Mental Health vs. Mental Illness

One of the biggest misconceptions is that mental health and mental illness are the same thing. However, they’re not.

• Mental health: Something everyone has, all the time. It can be good, poor, or somewhere in between.

• Mental illness: A diagnosed condition that affects the way someone thinks, feels, or behaves, such as depression or eating disorders.

You can have poor mental health without a diagnosis. And you can live with a mental illness while still experiencing good mental health at times.

Why Mental Health Awareness Matters

In recent years, conversations about mental health have become more open in places like schools, workplaces, and even on social media. We’ve made progress in reducing stigma, and more people are seeking help than ever before.

But (as we often say) there’s still a lot of work to do. Many children, young people, and adults still hesitate to reach out. Whether because they worry about being judged, aren’t sure where to start, or can’t access the right support.

Raising awareness means talking openly, challenging myths, breaking down barriers, and making sure support is available for everyone, not just in a crisis.

Why Mental Health Matters at Every Age

Mental health shapes how we:

• Handle stress

• Relate to others

• Make decisions

• Cope with change

For children and young people, good mental health supports learning, growth, and healthy relationships.

For adults — including parents, carers, and professionals — it’s essential for managing responsibilities and supporting those who rely on them.

When mental health is nurtured, the benefits ripple through families, schools, workplaces, and communities.

Looking After Mental Health: 5 Everyday Tips

You don’t need a diagnosis to take care of your mental health. Small, consistent steps can make a difference.

1. Prioritise rest – Aim for regular sleep and downtime.

2. Stay connected – Keep in touch with people who make you feel safe and supported.

3. Move your body – Even a short walk can help shift your mood.

4. Set boundaries – Protect your time and energy when you need to.

5. Do one thing you enjoy daily – Big or small.

When It Might Be More Than a Rough Patch

If you or your child or teen is experiencing things like:

• Persistent low mood or irritability

• Difficulty concentrating

• Withdrawing from friends or activities

• Changes in sleep or appetite

• Feeling overwhelmed by daily life

… support could help.

How Therapy Fits In

Therapy is just one of many ways to care for mental health. For some, it’s about navigating a crisis or diagnosis. For others, it’s about building coping skills, exploring emotions, or making sense of life changes in a safe space.

Other forms of support, such as talking to trusted friends or family, joining community groups, or engaging in creative outlets, can also be helpful. However, therapy provides a consistent and confidential space for reflection, growth, and developing strategies that work for you.

At The CYP Services, we work with children, young people, and adults. Our trauma-informed approach creates safe, empowering spaces where everyone feels supported.

Want to explore whether therapy might be right for you or your family?

If you’re looking for more guidance on your mental health journey, our consultation is a great starting place. It’s a free 20-minute phone call where we can explore your options and help you find the right support for you or your family, without any pressure.

You can also read our post What to Expect From Your Free Consultation to learn more about how it all works.

Book your free consultation.