What is Good Mental Health?
with Joe Griffin
The Good Mental Health Podcast: Episode 40
In this insightful episode of The Good Mental Health Podcast, we’re joined by the renowned psychologist Joe Griffin, Director and Co-Founder of the Human Givens approach. Joe has spent decades shaping the world of psychotherapy through his groundbreaking work in brief therapy and the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. His practical wisdom has transformed the practices of countless health professionals across the UK and beyond.
Together, we explore the essence of good mental health:
- What does good mental health look like? Joe offers a clear and relatable definition, helping us understand what it feels like in everyday life.
- Challenging misconceptions: Discover common myths that may be preventing you from recognising or achieving healthy mental well-being.
- Building resilience: Learn practical strategies for managing stress, fostering emotional resilience, and creating habits that sustain good mental health.
- Life’s influences: Explore the role of sleep, nutrition, exercise, and social connections in nurturing your mind, as well as the subtle signs that mental health may be declining.
- Adapting to change: Joe shares how mental health needs evolve over time, providing actionable advice for every stage of life.
We also tackle timely issues such as the impact of social media, how to have meaningful conversations about mental health, and the importance of our physical and social environments.
If you’re looking for expert insights and practical strategies to improve and sustain your mental health, this episode is for you. Join us as Joe Griffin shares his wisdom, leaving you with small but impactful changes you can make today for better mental well-being.
All living things have a set of needs in order to thrive
Guest bio:
Joe Griffin – Director and Co-Founder of the Human Givens Approach
Joe Griffin is a highly respected psychologist and pioneer in the field of psychotherapy, with decades of experience in both practice and training. As co-developer of the Human Givens approach, he has profoundly influenced the field, focusing on practical, effective solutions to mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. Thousands of health professionals have benefited from his engaging workshops, seminars, and online courses.
Recognised as one of the most informed and engaging speakers on human behaviour, Joe is at the forefront of skills-based therapy research and practice. He also advises businesses on reducing work-related stress and improving efficiency by addressing the innate needs of employees, customers, and stakeholders.
Joe has co-written numerous influential books with Ivan Tyrrell, including:
- Human Givens: An empowering approach to emotional health and clear thinking
- How to Lift Depression… Fast
- Why We Dream: The definitive answer
- Freedom from Addiction: The secret behind successful addiction busting
- How to Master Anxiety
- Release from Anger: Practical help for controlling unreasonable rage
- Godhead: The Brain’s Big Bang – the explosive origin of creativity, mysticism and mental illness
He has also authored ground-breaking monographs and articles on psychology, counselling, and human behaviour.
Joe’s work continues to shape the future of psychotherapy, offering accessible, practical strategies to improve emotional well-being and understanding of human behaviour.
Resources
The Human Givens Approach
If you have been affected by any of the issues in this podcast and would like to work with a Human Givens therapist, you use our register to find the right therapist for you.
If you feel like you are in an emergency situation, please contact 999 or visit your local A&E Department.
Listed below are some trusted organisations, charities or helplines that may also be able to assist you or a loved one:

