Every person's mental health journey is different. A mental health challenge is anything that affects thinking, emotions, behaviors, or mood. Challenges can impact day-to-day living and how you interact with others. They are more common than you may think, especially during the past couple of years. When it comes to mental health, it’s important to check in with others. Being open with what’s really going on can help everyone be more open about mental health challenges. If you think you may have a mental health challenge, remember you are not alone. Seek out mental health professionals. Support is available.
Signs of mental health challenges1 vary across age groups. If you or a loved one is experiencing any of the signs below for more than two weeks, consider getting more information and help.
Younger Children 
Older Children & Pre-Teens 
Teens
Adults
Older Adults
1 Signs of mental health challenges courtesy of WebMD.
Treatments for mental health challenges are based on each person’s diagnosis, symptoms, history, and many other factors.
Overall wellness gives us the ability to feel good about ourselves and enjoy life. This means caring for not only our physical needs, but our mental, emotional, and spiritual needs as well.
Mental Health America’s Live Your Life Well campaign has 10 activities that help people live full, enjoyable lives.
Tap each icon to see how they can help strengthen your mental well-being.
Connecting with Others
Make time to talk with family members and friends, and develop new relationships by taking classes, doing volunteer work, or joining a club that interests you.
Stigma refers to judgments or inaccurate beliefs that people might have about a specific group of people. Individuals with mental health challenges sometimes face discrimination because of the stigma around mental health. Scroll through the images below to see how you can fight back against mental health stigma.
COVID-19 is causing many of us to feel burnt out or overwhelmed. If you or someone you know is showing signs of stress, anxiety, or depression, or is struggling with substance use, the tips and resources below can help.
COVID-19 changed how many of us go about our lives. Click through to explore tips for adapting to these changes and find resources that can help ease stress.
Some communities are highly impacted from COVID-19. Click on the images below to see the help that is available.
First Responders
College Students
BIPOC Communities
Essential Workers
While COVID-19 affects everyone, teens face many unique stressors right now.
No matter what you’re feeling, it’s important to remember you don’t need to struggle through it or try to bear it alone. Whether you’re unsure about friendships, worried about socializing, or feeling disconnected from your family, the sooner you listen to your feelings, the sooner you can work on feeling better.
A great place to start addressing challenges is by talking or even texting with your parents or a trusted adult. Adults often notice your emotions but don’t know when it’s the right time to bring things up. Talking, finding support, and even incorporating things like breathing activities into your day can all help lift a weight off your shoulders.
There are also several resources devoted to teens that can help them feel better while exploring their mental health.
