however. We use this definition throughout this manual, the Youth MHFA course, and its associated materials. We also refer to a pre-adolescent as a ‘child’ at times. As a Youth MHFAider® you may sometimes want to use some of the guidance for pre-adolescents with young people over 12 years old, depending on the level of their emotional needs. Mental health Mental health The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity (7).” Mental health encompasses all types of health relating to the way we think, feel, and behave. We all have mental health, just as we all have physical health. We can have good mental health or experience poor mental health just as we can have good physical health or poor physical health. Positive mental health Positive or good mental health has been defined 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 (8).” Poor mental health Poor mental health is a state of mind that has a negative impact on the way we think, feel, and behave. Poor mental health can cause distress or inability in education, work, and social or community settings. It can impact daily living, including how we relate and interact with those around us. For example, a young person might experience a leg injury due to a sports accident or excessive play. They might also experience a period of depression due to increased stress or life pressures.
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