This page is about mental health resources for men; however, mental illness and mental health disorders are not confined to a particular sex or gender. This page may be helpful to people of any sex or gender.

What is mental health?

Mental health is a state of well-being, where every individual realises their own potential, can work productively, can cope with the normal stresses of life, and is able to contribute to their community.

Why is my mental health important?

Your mental health is an important part of your overall health and wellbeing. You need good mental health to help you get through life's challenges, to have healthy relationships with others and to enjoy life.

Problems with mental health are common, and not a sign of weakness. In fact, it can take courage to admit there's a problem, and to look for help. Your mental health is like your physical health — the earlier you get onto it, the better.

What are some common mental health issues?

Many things can negatively affect your mental and emotional wellbeing. Sometimes you might be feeling stressed, anxious or angry, Some common issues are:

• relationship problems, separation and divorce
• financial stress
• work-related pressures
• unemployment or retirement
• physical illness
• social isolation
• partner's pregnancy, the birth of a baby and becoming a parent
• drug and alcohol use

If you're a new parent, adjusting to family life and the pressures of learning to raise a child can sometimes be stressful. Postnatal depression and anxiety are common and can affect either or both parents.

How can I improve my mental health and wellbeing?

Good mental health and wellbeing mean different things to different people. Wellbeing can mean that you are able to enjoy and appreciate other people, your day-to-day life and your environment.

When you are mentally healthy you can:

• form positive relationships
• use your abilities to reach your potential
• deal with life's challenges

There are practical things you can do to help support your mental health:

• eat well, get plenty of sleep, and exercise regularly
• spend time with your friends and family
• talk about how you feel with people you trust
• do activities you enjoy
• take time to relax, but don't use alcohol to relax
• talk to your doctor
• set yourself realistic goals

There are also online resources that can provide more tips for good mental health and apps for building wellbeing.

What is mental illness?

A mental illness is a health problem that significantly affects how you think, behave and interact with others.

Everyone has ups and downs. Everyone experiences feelings of sadness or anger or hopelessness at times. If these feelings won’t go away or get so strong they make it difficult for you to function normally, this could be a sign of a mental illness. Examples of mental illness include conditions such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

If you're doing what you can, but still feel like you’re struggling, it could be time to look for some professional support. Most mental illness can be effectively treated or managed, so if you have a problem and seek help, there's a good chance that your condition will improve.

Resources and support

A good first step is to talk to people you trust, such as a partner, friend or colleague. You can also seek professional support, for example, from your GP, a psychologist or a counsellor. These health professionals are all trained to help people going through mental health difficulties.

There are also many organisations you can contact for help.

If you are having thoughts of self-harm or suicide, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 for immediate support.