COUNSELLING

What Does Counselling Mean?

Counselling for mental health isn't only about mental illness; it's also about your overall wellbeing. Learning to be aware of your mental health may help you identify what helps you feel mentally well, times when you are not well, and when you might need to seek further help.

"The World Health Organisation defines mental health as 'A state of well-being in which every individual realises their own potential. They have the ability to cope with the normal stresses of life, ability to work productively and fruitfully, and as an individual, able to make a contribution to their community'."

Being mentally well doesn't mean you don't experience 'negative' emotions or reactions, like sadness, anger, grief or frustration. Similarly, being mentally unwell doesn't necessarily mean that you can't experience emotions like happiness or excitement, go to school or work, or have meaningful relationships. Having mental well being means being able to experience the ups and downs of life and cope with them in a psychologically and emotionally healthy way.