Globally, mental disorders affect 25% of the society. This discursive paper aims to illustrate the mental health literacy levels in the public. Mental health literacy (MHL) is the understanding of mental health conditions, which helps in their prevention, recognition and treatment. Unfortunately, the public has minimal understanding of mental disorders, leading to poor recognition and delay in treatment. There is a need to conduct good quality research to assess the MHL levels among public and tailor interventions to enhance MHL among the public. This will ensure early detection of mental disorders, leading to early recovery and greater quality of life among the society. Nurses have a great role to play in leading these public educations, and enhancing a healthy and happy nation. •Mental health literacy levels are low•Nurses can enhance mental health literacy•Higher mental health literacy levels can reduce duration of untreated mental illness and enhance recovery