Most people will suffer poor mental health at some point in their lives, and mental health issues can have a wide range of causes. We don’t always know exactly what causes someone to experience a mental health problem. Often mental health problems can be triggered by immediate challenges and stresses in people’s lives. Other mental health problems are linked to longer-term underlying issues. For many people there is likely to be a mix of factors. These can include:

- losing someone close to you

- having money and/or housing issues 

- unemployment or losing a job

- childhood abuse, trauma, or neglect

- experiencing trauma, such as sexual violence, abuse, stigma, harassment or bullying 

- social isolation or loneliness 

- having a long-term physical health condition

Things like not eating or sleeping well can also all affect mental health. So can doing lots of drugs or drinking too much alcohol, although substance abuse is often the result of underlying mental health issues.

Research suggests that some mental health problems may run in families. But it is unclear if this is because of genes or other factors like the environment someone grows up in and the ways of thinking, coping and behaving that they learn from those around them.

Looking after our mental health is something we all need to do throughout our lives. 

If someone has a mental health issue or a more serious mental health illness there is no exact timeframe for recovery. It will depend on the person and what they are experiencing. Some mental health issues are temporary, others can be lifelong conditions. But it is possible to recover from mental ill-health, and many people do – especially after getting support. 

It’s important to remember that recovery is a journey, and it won't always be straightforward. For some people, recovery doesn't necessarily mean going back to how their life was before, but learning new ways to live and gaining control over things they might have felt overwhelmed by before.

Some people with a mental health issue may recover then find the issue returns from time to time. But if they’ve discovered the coping strategies or treatments that work best for them, they will be more likely to be able to manage things and get back on track.

You can't force someone to get help for depression if they don't want it. But you can let them know that it's okay to ask for help. Sometimes it can be hard to know the right thing to say. Here are some ideas to open a conversation:

- I’m sorry you’re feeling like this, and I’m here for you.

- How are you managing?

- What can I do to help you today?

Everyone will need different support, so ask what they might find helpful. Some people might want help with practical things, like looking into what services are available, taking them to appointments or helping with childcare. Finding ways of simplifying things that feel hard to cope with can also help. For example, you might be able to help them manage their studies or home life better. 

Lots of young people can find it hard to speak about how they're feeling. Let them know it is good to talk if they want to. Whatever they say to you, try to listen without judgement. You might find it hard to understand why someone can't just 'snap out' of it. But that’s not how depression works. Try not to put too much pressure on the person to get better straight away. They're probably being very critical and harsh towards themselves already.

If they don’t want to talk, suggest doing something that could be good for their well-being. Like going for a walk or doing an activity together, or just spending time together in a quiet place like their home. Keep checking in with that person to let them know you are there. Dealing with depression is hard and it takes time. So be patient. Encourage them by recognising and praising any steps they are taking to take care of their mental health, however big or small.

The services available will depend on where you live. But a good place to start is to recommend that a young person speaks to their doctor who may be able to connect them with a counsellor or other mental health support. They might also prescribe treatment, such as anti-depressants, if they need it. You could also look online to see if there is a forum or online support group they could join. Some areas have community-based support, such as peer supporters and local support groups, so these are also worth investigating.

Having good mental health means, most of the time, someone has self-acceptance and healthy relationships with others. They can enjoy life, regulate their emotions and deal with stress in a healthy way. They will also be able to take part in daily life, study well, go to work and look after their physical health.

Having bad mental health means someone regularly thinks, feels or acts in ways that are negative for them and their life. They are likely to have difficulty managing their emotions in a healthy way, and may feel overwhelmed by what they are thinking and feeling. They may distance themselves from others like family and friends, and they may also have low self-esteem. Feeling hopeless or helpless, not being able to focus, having difficulty sleeping or eating are also signs of bad mental health. Suicidal thoughts or self-harm are signs of a serious mental health issue.

These are just some of the signs that someone might be struggling with their mental health. It’s not always easy to tell when a young person has a mental health issue. They may not be open about it, or they may not even realise themselves. But if you notice changes to their mood or behaviour, or if they are acting in ways that are harmful to them or others, it could be a sign.