The 10th of October is the International Day for Global Mental Health education, advocacy and awareness against social stigma. In the last years, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, in which the global prevalence of anxiety and depression increased by 25%, people started to talk more and more about mental health. But what exactly is mental health?
Generally, mental health is a crucial part of overall health and, more specifically, a state of wellbeing that encompasses the emotional, psychological, and social aspects of our lives. When you are taking care of your mental health, you’re able to realize your own potential, work productively, manage the everyday stresses of life and have healthy relationships. Conversely, if you experience mental health problems, it could impact how you think, feel, and act, and this could adversely affect a lot of aspects of life, such as physical health, parenting, work, finances, caregiving, and other everyday activities. Despite the fact that there is a mental illness crisis worldwide and even though nowadays mental illness has been publicly discussed more in the media and schools, there is still so much stigma and shame around mental disorders. Take into example an extensive survey of mental health service clients conducted by the Mental Health Foundation, which found that 56% reported experiencing stigma within their own family, 51% from their friends and 47% reported having been harassed or abused in public. As a result, many people feel shame and stay silent because of their mental health situation and tend not to ask for help and start psychotherapy despite the struggles that they are experiencing.
Despite the stigma that exists and the fact that mental disorders can have a significant impact on a person’s life, it is essential to note that mental illnesses are highly treatable and for many individuals, recovery is possible. Having discussions about mental health and encouraging people to embrace and talk about their mental struggles only leads to a more improved community and creates a positive state of wellbeing. Mental disorders do not define a person. There are so many more things that human beings are from just the diagnosis that is given to them. Talking about your feelings and struggles should never be a shame but pride. It is essential to emphasize promoting mental health so that we can reduce stigma and encourage people to ask for help. The only way out is through.
So, if you are reading this, do not hesitate to ask for help. Call a friend, go to a therapist, do things that make you feel alive and try to embrace your feelings and struggles. They are part of you. Life is full of possibilities and it’s lovely to experience them: to fall in love, to travel, to meet new people and to create an inside world that will give you the love and the space to express yourself no matter how difficult things might be. Healing happens by feeling. So, happy World’s Mental Health Day.
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