Every year, attention is brought to mental health to provide support, fight stigma, and educate the public on this hot topic. By creating awareness, the hope is that the public will feel more comfortable in assisting others with this issue and that individuals will open up about their struggles.
Misunderstood
Mental health is often misunderstood because it isn’t readily seen and, therefore, can be hidden by those who may feel shame or confusion. Names like "psycho" "crazy", or "nuts" are just a few reasons why they shy away from receiving help. Psychologists deal primarily with anxiety (4% of the worldwide population) and depressive disorders –both, if left untreated, are precursors to self-destructive behavior. Emotional Balance
Positive emotional balance is the result of a chemically healthy and well-managed mind. Mental health affects thoughts, feelings, and actions. A healthy mind will be better equipped to handle the stresses of life, be a productive member of society, and reach the full measure of their potential.
Those with poor mental health are more likely to suffer from a mental health disorder, some of which include:
• Depression
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
• Panic disorder
• Phobias
• Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)
• Obsessive-compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
40 Seconds
This year’s focus for 2019 is “Working Together to Prevent Suicide.” Every 40 seconds, someone loses their life to suicide. The campaign by the World Health Organization is encouraging everyone to take “40 seconds of action” on 10 October by:
- improving awareness of the serious nature of suicide
- improve knowledge of what can be done to prevent suicide
- reduce the stigma associated with suicide
- let people who are struggling know that they are not alone.
World Mental Health Day is an opportunity to show that you care. If there is a concern for someone in particular and you are not sure how to approach them and are fearful of self-harm, call National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Check out the links below for more information on mental health.
Comments