How we think and feel is central to the way we live our lives.
The Scottish Government's National Programme of action to improve population Mental Health and Well-being is driving a change in knowledge, attitudes and behaviour towards mental health.
One in four of us 1 will experience a serious problem with our mental well-being at some point in our lives. This means that it's highly unlikely any of us will make it through life without experiencing a mental health problem or being close to someone who does.
Positive mental health is essential if Scotland is to enjoy a healthier future.
The Scottish Government provides fundingto a range of delivery angencies working nationally and locally to raise the profile of, and to support further action in, mental health improvement (promotion and prevention), to address the stigma of mental ill-health, to prevent suicide in Scotland and support receovery from mental illness and mental health problems.
A new action plan "Towards a Mentally Flourishing Scotland" will be publishedin Spring 2009, setting out the Government's vision for improving population mental health and wellbeing to 2011 and beyond.
For more information on the work already underway in Scotland, news, events and tips on how to maintain and improve your own mental health visit www.wellscotland.info
1 Figure from the Mental Health Foundation