According to the World Health Organisation, mental health is described as 'A state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community.'.

When trying to balance a work life, home life, and a social life, it can be easy to forget that we all need time to ourselves as well.

Below are some of the common symptoms of poor mental health, some strategies to help keep a healthy mindset when we notice that we've started to feel down, and some common myths about mental health.

Common symptoms of poor mental health:

• Feeling generally sad or down

• Significant tiredness or problems sleeping

• Reduced ability to concentrate

• Inability to cope with daily problems or stress

• Excessive fears, worries or feelings of guilt

• Increased alcohol or drug use

• Extreme mood changes

• Changes in eating habits

• Withdrawal from friends or activities

• Suicidal thoughts or behaviours

Some of the ways that we can improve our mental health or prevent small problems from becoming severe include:

1. Talk to a trusted friend or family member about how you've been feeling.

2. Get outside. Go for a run, walk, do some gardening or go for a bike ride. Fresh air can make a big difference and moving our body helps produce the endorphins that make us feel happy!

3. Make time for activities you enjoy. Pick up a hobby, play with your pet, or read a book. By making time for the things that make us happy, we have more energy to spend with the people we love.

4. Journal. It can be hard to say how we're feeling out loud, try writing everything down to help process and understand your emotions.

5. Gratitude. Take time to reflect on everything positive that's happened each day. This can help stop negative thoughts from clouding how we actually feel.

6. Look after yourself. Make sure that you are eating enough and getting enough hours of sleep a night. These actions are what give us the energy we need to move on with our day.

7. Set clear goals and priorities. Don't be afraid to say no to things when you feel you already have enough on your plate. Try to be proud of what you've accomplished each day, even if its small.

Common myths about mental health:

Myth: You only need to take care of your mental health if you have a mental illness

Fact: Everyone needs to take care of their mental health. It not only improves our ability to work, but also prevents issues from forming in the future, and gives us the strategies needed to overcome issues when they do arise.

Myth: A mental health condition is a sign of weakness

Fact: A mental health condition has nothing to do with lacking willpower or being weak. Recognising the need for support and reaching out requires courage and bravery, you should never be ashamed for how you are feeling.

Myth: Mental health issues cannot be cured

Fact: Depending on the severity of the issue, with appropriate coping strategies and therapy, mental health issues can be resolved with time.

Myth: You can't help people who are struggling with their mental health

Fact: By letting them know that you are there for them, learning about mental health, or even reminding them about the mental health services that are there to help them, you can support a person who you know is struggling.

Myth: Mental health issues cannot affect you

Fact: No matter how strong you are, mental health problems do not discriminate. If you feel that you are struggling, do not feel ashamed to reach out and seek help.

Below are some helpful resources that may assist you in starting a conversation about mental health: