What is mental health?

• According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), mental health is a state of physical, psychological and social well-being. Mental health affects how we think, feel and act.
• Mental health enables people to cope with challenges and stresses of life and promotes good social functioning.

 

Why is mental health important?

• According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), mental health affects how we think, feel, relate to others, make decisions and how we handle life challenges.

 

What are the common causes of mental health disorders:

• Genes and family history
• Life experiences, such as stress or a history of abuse, especially if they happened in childhood
• Biological factors such as chemical imbalances in the brain
• A traumatic brain injury
• A mother’s exposure to viruses or toxic chemicals while pregnant
• Use of alcohol or recreational drugs
• Medical conditions such as cancer
• Being isolated from family and friends, loneliness, lack of a support structure

 

Most common mental health disorders:

• Anxiety disorders
• Panic disorders
• Obsessive-Compulsive disorders and Phobias
• Depression, Bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders
• Eating disorders
• Personality disorders
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Schizophrenia

 

Effects of Mental Health disorders:

• It takes a toll on physical health e.g., strokes, heart diseases
• Increase the risk of suicidal thoughts
• It prevents ability to connect with others e.g., complete withdrawal from others
• Disrupt your feeling of self-worth. The importance of maintaining good mental health
• Good mental health promotes a sense of stability in our lives
• Improves overall mood
• Helps realise your full potential and finding meaning in life
• Bettering and boosting relationships with others
• Reduces stress and learning how to cope
• Enhances self-esteem, self-image, and self-confidence. The importance of seeking professional help
• Understanding the symptoms and treatment options for mental health conditions is crucial for anyone who may be experiencing them or supporting someone who is
• Mental health disorders are medical conditions and require a medical diagnosis and treatment. Seeking professional help will assist with one’s access to the correct medical diagnosis and treatment. Early warning signs of mental health disorders
• Feeling numb, not caring about things that used to matter
• Unexpected burst of anger
• Losing interest in things that used to bring joy
• Isolation and being more withdrawn
• Erratic, impulsive or dangerous behaviours
• Deep feeling of negative emotions
• Hopelessness, lack of curiosity about the future
• Constantly worried and anxious
• Lack of energy, usual tasks suddenly feel overwhelming. Can a mental health condition be prevented or treated?
• Mental health disorders are treatable and manageable
• Recovery is possible if medical and other help is provided. Here are a few techniques to try
• If feeling overwhelmed, take the time to adjust. It’s okay, we’re all human, negative emotions are valid
• Talking to someone who is trustworthy in a safe space will allow you to express your feelings instead of ignoring and suppressing them.