What affects your mental health?

Your mental health can be influenced by a number of factors, including:

• Your genes (some mental health issues run in families)
• Divorce, separation, or the breakup of a long-term relationship
• The death of a loved one
• Losing your job, or job changes
• Going through bankruptcy
• Moving to a new home
• Coping with a natural disaster
• Caring for an ageing parent
• The birth of your child
• Being diagnosed and living with a serious illness, or suffering a major injury

Admitting to yourself (and others, if necessary) that you have a problem, and getting the help you need is a sign of great strength.

With proper diagnosis and treatment, the vast majority of people with depression can be helped, and will go on to lead normal, happy lives.