
Mental Health : An Introduction
WHAT IS MENTAL HEALTH?
Before we learn what mental health is, we must first know what health is, perhaps we would catch a glimpse of mental health in it. Health as defined by the W.H.O., is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease and infirmity (WHO 2001 pg. 1). Mental health therefore is a cognitive part of health and the basis of overall well-being and effective functioning of an individual in his relationships and the community at large. It has also been defined as a state of well-being whereby individuals recognize their abilities, are able to cope with the normal stresses of life, work productively and fruitfully, and make a contribution to their communities.
WHY DO WE NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH?
Mental health should concern everyone, not just those affected by a mental illness/disorder. This is because it impinges on the society as a whole and not merely a segment of it, as the lay man will imagine. Below are some facts and figures that will introduce a new reality of this hazy topic.
- As many as 450 million people suffer from a mental or behavioral disorder.
- Nearly one million people commit suicide every year.
- Four of the six leading causes of years lived with disability are due to neuropsychiatric disorders (depression, alcohol-use disorders, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder).
- One in four families has at least one member with a mental disorder. Family members are often the primary caregivers of people with mental disorders.
- The extent of the burden of mental disorders on family members is difficult to assess and quantify, and is consequently often ignored. However, it does have a significant impact on the family's quality of life.
- In addition to the health and social costs, those suffering from mental health are also victims of human rights violations, stigma and discrimination, both inside and outside psychiatric institutions (Investing in Mental Health Page 4).
CHALLENGING MYTHS, IGNORANCE AND STEREOTYPES SURROUNDING MENTAL HEALTH
- Most people with mental health are not violent, and most violent people are not mentally ill. Studies have rather shown that the estimated risk of violence by the mentally ill ranges from 3% to 5% (Friedman R.A. 2006)
- People with mental disorders have the capability to work like everyone else, according to their abilities, qualifications and exposure.
- Mental illness is not permanent. A person with mental health can get better, recover completely and lead a normal, fulfilling and enriching life.
- One in ten young people have experienced major depression at some period in their life.
- Children are also victims of mental illness. Their mental illnesses are often clinically diagnosable and can be a product of biological and social factors.
- Treatments for mental health vary depending on the individual. They could include support systems, medication and therapy.
- Like other illnesses, the saying "prevention is better than cure" relates to mental illness. We can avert possible mental disorders by addressing the risk factors such as exposure to trauma that can affect children, young adults and adults greatly.
- About half of mental disorders begin before the age of 14 (W.H.O. Fact File).It has been recorded that for each adult who died of suicide, there may have been more than 20 others attempting suicide.
- Finally, stigma and discrimination against people with mental health prevent people from seeking mental health care.
By Halimah Kasim,
26th Shawwal, 1438 AH.
