U-M Counseling and Psychological Services

Mental health has been defined as:

• the successful performance of mental function, resulting in productive activities
• fulfilling relationships with other people
• the ability to adapt to change and cope with adversity or difficult life situations

Although different cultures have differing expectations for health, many of the following characteristics are likely to be present in individuals with good mental health:

• a sense of well-being and contentment
• self-confidence and self-esteem
• the ability to enjoy life, to laugh and have fun
• being able to deal with life’s stresses and bounce back from adversity with some resiliency
• the ability to change, grow, and experience a range of feelings, as life’s circumstances change
• the ability to care for oneself and for others