Mental Health Glossary and resources

Mental health concerns emotional, psychological as well as social well-being. It thus refers to a range of states, feelings and behaviours. That is why using this umbrella term can be sensitive and should be done with care. 'Health' is often misunderstood as only comprising physical health. However, as the WHO Mental health defines it: 'Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity'.

Mental health is a vital and integral part of overall health and is essential to healthy human functioning. Mental and physical health are intimately related. Access to mental health care is a human right and enables citizens to enjoy well-being, quality of life and health (EU 2008). Mental health promotes learning, working and participation in society. Well-being integrates mental health (mind) and physical health (body) resulting in more holistic approaches to disease prevention and health promotion (CDC). Having a low level of well-being however is not the same as having a mental illness and it is possible to experience flourishing or moderate levels of mental well-being, despite experiencing symptoms of mental ill-health.

Mental health is a growing public health concern due to the impact it has on those living with mental health difficulties, their relatives and the overall society. Mental health is also an important and growing cause of disability in many European countries and it has become a specific point of attention for EPR and its members.

Psychosocial disability: a health condition characterized by alterations in thinking, mood, or behaviour associated with distress or interference with personal functions. Also known as mental health issue (avoid saying mental health illness). 
Trauma: the emotional response to a distressing event and the emotional consequences that last long after the event occurs. Traumatic situations push people beyond the limits of their mental and physical capacity and can trigger a strong stress reaction that may lead to psychological and physical issues. Such situations are very broad and hard to define. 

“trauma-informed” services: service providers focusing on various issues and target groups, which take into due account also the relevance of trauma in their process of assistance. 
  • Resources:

EPR Mental Health Brochure

EPR e-Learning module on Mental Health and Well-being

EPR e-Learning module on Co-production and Mental Health promotion