Answer: To outsiders it may seem that celebrities have it all: success, money, fame and worldwide adoration. But it seems they don't have what really matters in life - happiness.

In our "gimme more" society we've been conditioned into believing that money, fast cars and a hot shot career will bring us true happiness, but they won't. In fact by putting all of our energies into the pursuit of these things it's no wonder we are left with feelings of disappointment.

Depression Statistics:

• In any given year, about 7% - between 13 million and 14 million people - will experience a depressive disorder that affects their work, home life and relationships.
• Almost 15 percent of women suffering from severe depression will commit suicide.
• Though women experience depression at double the rate of men, men are three times as likely to commit suicide than women.
• Suicide is most common among men who are separated, widowed, or divorced.
• One in seven men will develop depression within 6 months of becoming unemployed.
• Retired men are also at an increased risk for depression.
• Older people, as a group, are most at risk for suicide with 25% of all suicides are committed by the elderly.
• Suicide is the third leading cause of death for people between the ages of 15 and 24.

These figures are shocking, and they also mean it's highly unlikely that any of us will make it through life without being affected by depression, or being close to someone who is.

Positive mental health means being aware of your feelings and emotions and being able to deal with life.

But how many of us, with today's increased stress levels and pressure to achieve in all aspects of life, feel we are carrying the weight of the world on our shoulders? When under stress or strain, we max out the credit card, reach for the bottle, the fridge, or let our hair down in a big night out, pushing problems aside and allowing them to fester.

So why not do what the experts say, and sit down and talk about it?

Many people are unwilling to share their problems for fear of appearing weak or being viewed as a failure but speaking to a mental health professional can help.

We need to pay attention to our moods and open up. Seeking a professional to talk is an alternative to out of control spending, drinking, or eating. Counselling helps develop insight and a feeling of acceptance and being understood, which is essential for good mental health. By engaging in a dialogue wiht another person about what's important for your life, you are supported in finding your own solutions.

And it makes sense. Sources of depression, such as bereavement, relationship breakdown, career crisis or substance misuse afffect most people at some time during their lives.

In my view, mental health should be about fewer drugs and more support. It should be about talking - and listening. No-one feels good all of the time, and, as the saying goes, a problem shared is a problem halved, no matter how big or small.

By recognizing the simple problems as they occur, we can "bank" our emotional reserves which will help tackle the bigger problems in life.