Mental Health vs. Mental Illness – Question & Answer Sheet

Section 1: Definitions

Q1. What is Mental Health?
A1. Mental health is a state of well-being. It is how we think, feel, and cope with life. When we have good mental health, we can manage stress, enjoy life, make positive choices, and build healthy relationships.

Q2. What is Mental Illness?
A2. Mental illness is a medical condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, behaves, or relates to others. It can make daily life difficult and may require support or treatment. Examples include depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia.

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Section 2: Similarities and Differences

Q3. What do mental health and mental illness have in common?
A3.

• Both involve thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and coping.

• Both can affect daily life, work, and relationships.

• Everyone has mental health, and it can change over time.

Q4. What are the main differences between mental health and mental illness?
A4.

• Mental Health: Feeling well, balanced, able to cope, and enjoy life.

• Mental Illness: Feeling unwell, unable to cope, life feels overwhelming, and may need medical or professional support.

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Section 3: Understanding Mental Health

Q5. What does good mental health look like?
A5.

• Making positive choices (healthy eating, sleep, exercise).

• Feeling balanced and content.

• Having strong friendships, meaningful work, and activities.

Q6. How can mental health change over time?
A6.

• Mental health can go up or down.

• Life events such as grief, job loss, or illness can affect how we feel.

• Everyone experiences ups and downs—it’s normal.

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Section 4: Understanding Mental Illness

Q7. What are signs that someone may have a mental illness?
A7.

• Daily life feels overwhelming or painful.

• Trouble coping with work, relationships, or self-care.

• Using unhealthy coping methods (e.g., overeating, substance use, withdrawal).

Q8. Can mental illness always be seen easily?
A8. No. Many people with mental illness can still smile, laugh, or enjoy life. Mental illness is not always visible.

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Section 5: Barriers and Stigma

Q9. Why do some people find it hard to ask for help?
A9.

• Fear of judgment or stigma.

• Worry about being a burden.

• Social expectations (e.g., men taught to hide emotions).

• Needing trust and safety to talk to someone.

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Section 6: Key Messages

Q10. Can someone have good mental health even with a mental illness?
A10. Yes. With the right support, people with a mental illness can still feel well, be happy, and live fulfilling lives.

Q11. Is mental illness a personal weakness?
A11. No. Mental illness is not a personal failure—it is a medical condition that can be managed and treated.

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✅ In Summary

• Everyone has mental health.

• Mental illness is treatable and manageable.

• Talking and learning helps reduce stigma.

• Support and understanding are key to recovery.