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

Insomnia has been linked to depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. —Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 7 Mar. 2025

The album’s concept, exploring themes of healing, mental health and escape, mirrors this Water sign’s deeply introspective and emotionally receptive nature. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 7 Mar. 2025

Regularly walking has numerous physical and mental health benefits, including improved mood, stronger bones, and better sleep. —Emily Brown, Mph, Verywell Health, 7 Mar. 2025

People are also more open to talking about grief and mental health in recent years, Strovers says. —Linh Ta, Axios, 7 Mar. 2025

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