Mental health is not just the absence of mental disorder. It can be defined as a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.
The 2006 New Zealand Mental Health Survey identified that almost half of New Zealanders will experience a mental illness at some time in their lives. One in five people will be affected within any one year. Mental illness not only has a huge toll on the individual but also their families, wider society and the economy. Ensuring a focus on wellbeing is important as there is much research that looks at the importance of positive mental health as a positive contributor to society and the economy. A recent report in the UK identifies good mental health as the foundation for well-being and the effective functioning of individuals and communities; it suggests that there is no health without mental health.
Read the full issue summary on mental health and wellbeing [PDF] - last updated November 2011.