Mental Health and Well Being
Just like we all have physical health, we all have mental health (our thoughts and feelings). Mental health is not “good” or “bad” only. It changes, just like physical health. Sometimes we feel strong and well. Sometimes we struggle.
Mental health is on a spectrum:
What Is Positive Mental Health?
Positive mental health is when we feel good most of the time, can handle stress, have energy, and enjoy life. It does not mean we never feel sad or worried — it means we have ways to cope and still do the things that matter to us.
Having positive mental health is essential for you, those around you, and your child. Your mental health affects how you think, feel, connect with others, and care for your family.
Ways to Support Your Mental Well-Being
Learn More
Mental Health & Well-Being | HPPH
Post-partum Mood Disorders
It is normal to feel emotional after birth. The baby blues are a very common experience after childbirth, affecting many new parents with feelings of sadness, mood swings, or tearfulness in the first few days after birth. Baby blues usually resolve on their own within about two weeks.
If symptoms are intense or last longer, it may be a postpartum mood disorder. This can happen during pregnancy or up to a year after birth—and affect partners too.
Screening Tool for Postpartum Depression from E-Mental Health is a helpful tool that includes a checklist that can help assess your mental state.
For Partners, Families and Friends
Here are some supportive things you can do as a support person when someone you care about may be struggling with their mental health:
Here is a list of support that is available if you are struggling:
In crisis
Everyone has ups and downs. Asking for help is a sign of strength—not weakness. If you are having thoughts of suicide or of harming yourself or others, you can call:
988 - Mental Health Crisis Line (24/7)
1-888-829-7484 - Huron Perth Crisis Intervention
Healthy Relationships
Life gets busier with a child, and it is important to make time for yourself and your relationships. Whether you are parenting alone or with a partner, adult connections still are important. Knowing the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships helps support your mental health, well-being, and safety.
| Healthy Relationship | Unhealthy Relationship |
| respects your feelings and opinions | ignores or belittles your feelings |
| listens and communicates openly | yells, insults, or shuts down communication |
| supports your choices and independence | controls what you do, where you go, and who you see |
| never uses threats, violence, or manipulation | uses threats of harm, suicide, or violence to control you |
| trusts you and earns your trust | is overly jealous or possessive |
| spends time with you willingly | uses guilt or pressure to control your time |
| says positive, kind things to and about you | calls you names or constantly criticizes you |
| allows personal freedom and activities | tracks your online activity or isolates you |
| respects your sexual boundaries every time | forces or pressures you into sex |
| encourages your well-being and growth | drains your confidence and self-esteem |
Need Help? Support Is Available.
In immediate danger, call 9-1-1
Learn More:
Maintain Healthy Relationships | Alberta Health Services
Contact Us
Huron Perth Public Health
Huron Office
77722B London Road, RR #5, Clinton, ON
N0M 1L0
Perth Office
653 West Gore St., Stratford ON N5A 1L4
Toll-free 1-888-221-2133
askhpph@hpph.ca
This website uses cookies to enhance usability and provide you with a more personal experience. By using this website, you agree to our use of cookies as explained in our Terms of Use.
