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Mental Health Awareness: Breaking The Stigma

If you are dealing in your work with issues described above and you like to be informed about the latest developments in this area

by
on May 20, 2024

Mental health awareness is an important facet of life to educate the public and break down the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Addressing stigma is crucial because it often prevents individuals from seeking help and can lead to increased feelings of isolation and shame.

Debunking Common Myths about mental health:

  1. Mental health issues are rare: According to the World Health Organization [WHO], one in four people globally will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives.
  2. People with mental health issues are dangerous: The vast majority of people with mental conditions are not violent. They are more likely to be victims of violence than perpetrators.
  3. Mental health problems are a sign of weakness: Mental health issues can affect anyone, regardless of strength or character. They are medical conditions, not a reflection of personal weakness.
  4. You can snap out of mental health problems: Mental health issues require appropriate treatment and support. Suggesting someone can ‘snap out of it’ trivializes their experience.
  5. Therapy and self-help are a waste of time: Therapy and self-help strategies can be very effective. Many people benefit significantly from professional counseling and self-help techniques.

Encouraging open conversations about mental health

  1. Create safe spaces: Encourage open dialogue about mental health in workplaces, schools and communities. Safe spaces foster honest conversations and reduce stigma.
  2. Share personal stories: Sharing personal experiences with mental health can help others feel less alone and encourage them to seek help. It also humanizes mental health issues, making them more relatable.
  3. Educate yourself and others: Learn about mental health conditions and share this knowledge. Understanding mental health can reduce fear and misconceptions.
  4. Use inclusive language: Use person-first language e.g. “a person with depression” rather than “a depressed person” to emphasize the individual rather than the condition.
  5. Support mental health initiatives: Participate in or support mental health awareness campaigns, walks and events. These activities can raise awareness and funds for mental health resources.

Practical advice for breaking the stigma

  1. Be compassionate: Approach conversations about mental health with empathy and understanding. Avoid judgmental language and offer support.
  2. Encourage professional help: Encourage those struggling with mental health issues to seek professional help. Therapy and medication can be vital components of recovery.
  3. Normalize mental health care: Treat mental health care as you would physical health care. Normalize going to therapy and taking mental health days.
  4. Challenge stigmatizing views: Speak up against stereotypes and stigmatizing comments. Educate others when you hear misinformation.
  5. Promote mental health education: Advocate for mental health education in schools and workplaces. Knowledge is a powerful tool in reducing stigma.

RELEVANT STATISTICS:

  • According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness [NAMI], 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year.
  • The WHO reports that depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide.
  • According to the American Psychological Association, 44% of people say they rely on self-care strategies to manage stress.
  • The World Health Organization reports that self-care interventions can improve overall health outcomes, particularly for those managing chronic conditions.
  • A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that 60% of people with mental health conditions do not seek help due to stigma and discrimination.

Practical self care tips:

A. Physical self-care: 

  1. Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Activities like walking or dancing can boost physical and mental health.
  2. Healthy eating: Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Proper nutrition fuels your body and mind.
  3. Adequate sleep: Strive for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Establish a regular sleep routine and create a restful environment.

B. Emotional self-care:

  1. Practice mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness exercises, such as meditation or deep breathing to stay present and manage stress.
  2. Express emotions: Allow yourself to feel and express your emotions through journaling, talking to a friend or engaging in creative activities.
  3. Set boundaries: Learn to say no and set healthy boundaries to protect your emotional energy.

C. Mental self-care:

  1. Engage in hobbies: Spend time on activities that bring you joy and stimulate your mind, such as reading, painting or playing music.
  2. Lifelong Learning: Keep your mind active by learning new skills, taking courses or engaging in intellectually stimulating discussions.
  3. Limit screen time: Reduce exposure to screens and digital devices to prevent burnout and maintain clarity.

Supportive Resources:

1. Books: 

  • ” The noonday demon: An atlas of depression” by Andrew Solomon
  • ” First, We make the beast beautiful: A New Journey Through Anxiety” by Sarah Wilson.
  • “The self-care solution: A year of becoming happier, healthier and fitter- One Month at a Time” by Jennifer Ashton, M.D.

” Self- care for the Real World” by Nadia Narain and Katia Narain Phillips.

2. Websites: 

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