Mental health includes emotional stability and' maturity of character as well as the strength to withstand the stresses of living without undue or persistent symptoms, physical or psychological. Mental health implies the ability to judge reality accurately and to see things in terms of long-term rather than short-term values. It implies the ability to love, to be able to sustain affectionate relationships with other persons. It means the ability to work in one's chosen field both pleasurably and productively. It demands the presence of an effective conscience, realistic and independent, and at the same time a practical code by which to live. Finally, it entails the gratification of certain basic needs—such as hunger, thirst, self-assertiveness, and sex—in such a way as to not hurt other people or one's self.

To achieve this ideal of mental health we need more than the services of physicians and other persons who treat the mentally ill. We need the kind of society and the kind of family life that will develop such attitudes and responses. It is not enough for professionals to treat those who have become ill. The responsibility for prevention lies not with the physician. It lies with those who shape the social, political, and economic structure of our country. It lies, therefore, in a democracy and with every citizen of it.

1. Character Disorders

2. Mental Illness

3. Mental Diseases

4. Psychoneurosis

5. Signs of Mental Illness

6. Treatment of Mental Illness

7. Brain Disease

8. Hospitalization

9. Psychotherapy