Mental health and wellbeing inclusive language

“A state of complete physical, social and mental well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” World Health Organisation.

“Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realise their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community.” World Health Organisation.

Everyone experiences mental health differently and it changes over time and in response to life events.

Mental health problems and difficulties refer to a broader range of individuals experiencing levels of emotional and/or psychological distress beyond normal experience and beyond their current ability to effectively manage which may be temporary or longer term. It will include those who are experiencing mental health conditions and those whose experiences fall below this threshold.

A condition and experience, involving thoughts, feelings, symptoms and/or behaviours, that causes distress and reduces functioning, impacting negatively on an individual’s day-to-day experience, and which may receive or be eligible to receive a clinical diagnosis. University Mental Health Charter; NHS.

Wellbeing encompasses a wider framework, of which mental health is an integral part, but which also includes physical and social wellbeing.

Optimum wellbeing (Richard Kraut) is defined by the ability of an individual to fully exercise their cognitive, emotional, physical and social powers, leading to flourishing. University Mental Health Charter.