Mental Health Awareness

This month, the Library for Health Information (LHI) is spreading awareness about mental health. According to MedlinePlus, "mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being." It influences our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors as we navigate through life. It plays a pivotal role on how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, spanning from early childhood and adolescence to the phases of adulthood and aging.

What is mental illness?

MedlinePlus identifies mental disorders, also known as mental illnesses or psychiatric disorders, as conditions that significantly affect an individual's thinking, feeling, behavior, or mood. These disorders can vary widely in severity, duration, and impact on daily functioning. More than half of all Americans will be diagnosed with a mental disorder at some time in their life, but people with mental disorders can get better, and many of them recover completely.

Why is mental health important?

According to MedlinePlus, mental health is important because it can help to:

• Cope with the stresses of life
• Be physically healthy
• Have good relationships
• Make meaningful contributions to your community
• Work productively
• Realize your full potential

For more information about mental health from MedlinePlus, please visit this link: MedlinePlus | Mental Health
The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is 988. Help is available. 

How can the LHI provide guidance when learning about mental health?

To learn more about mental health please contact LHI for information. All information is confidential, reliable and free. Please contact either the number or email listed below.

For more resources, please email your questions to an LHI librarian at health-info@osu.edu, or call us at (614) 293-3707. All information is free and confidential.

The Library for Health Information is here for you. To find out more, visit the LHI webpage.