DR MICHAEL SLATTERY: Mental health

Mental health is an integral and essential component of health.

This year the 10th October marks World Mental Health Day and the World Health Organisation constitution states that “health is a state of complete physical, mental or social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”.

An important implication of this definition is that mental health is more than just the absence of mental disorders or disabilities.

Mental health is a state of well-being in which the individual realises his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.

Where to go to find help? For information on mental health services in Australia:

Dr Michael Slattery Image
Dr Michael Slattery

Dr Michael Slattery is the Director of Catholic Schools, Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.