Mental Health as defined by WHO is a state of wellbeing in which every individual realizes his or her potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, work productively and contribute to the community.
Mental illness has history of fear and misunderstanding due to cultural and religious beliefs leading to suffering, persecution stigma, discrimination and barriers for problems that are preventable and treatable.
Allow us demystify the myths and misconceptions about mental health by providing factual information.
MYTHS AND FACTS ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH
Myth: People with Mental Health problems cannot function in the society.
Fact: They have unique skills, strengths and have productive roles in all aspects of society and life.
Myth: They are dangerous, violent, aggressive and exhibit antisocial behaviors.
Fact: Mental disorder is a clinically classified set of symptoms or behaviors that lead to disruptions in the wellbeing of individual’s personal, social or occupational areas of life. These include; physical, behavioral and emotional symptoms.
Myth: People are to blame for their own Mental Health problems.
Fact: The causes of mental health issues are biological, psychological, environmental and social factors.
Myth: Certain types of people cannot have Mental Health problems.
Fact: Mental health illnesses affect people from all walks of life, age, gender, race, from rural or urban areas, any socioeconomic status, education level and culture.
Myth: Only Mental Health professionals have a role to play
Fact: Work places, schools, families and communities have a role in providing support as a protective factor while professionals are vital for psychological assessment, diagnosis and treatment.
Myth: Talking about Mental Health makes things worse as Mental Health conditions are permanent and untreatable
Fact: Openness about mental health struggles reduces stigma, and those living with mental health issues are deserving of care, understanding, compassion and pathways to hope, healing, recovery and life of fulfilment.
Myth: If I have managed my emotions alone before, then I do not need help now.
Fact: Mental Health much like physical health is not static hence seeking mental health care is important.
STIGMA REDUCTION IN MENTAL HEALTH
Stigma reduction requires different approaches, effective among them is normalizing conversations and advocating for positive change of policies to protect, promote health, safety, wellbeing and quality of life.
Other strategies include;
1. Prevention by creating Mental Health awareness through education, screening for early detection and curative measures for those affected.
2. Breaking down the stigma by talking about Mental Health more, sharing stories, experiences opinions and support groups
3. Self-help strategies and self- care activities like behavior modification, exercises, healthy diet and adequate sleep.
4. Combined treatment of psychological therapy and medication as treatment is highly individualized.
Together we can break down this stigma and discrimination, make Mental Health conversations more prevalent and encouraging everyone to focus on their mental wellbeing.
# THERE IS NO HEALTH WITHOUT MENTAL HEALTH
