09/16/2022
Is there a downside to the Mental Health Awareness movement?
Like physical health, we all have mental health, and having good mental health allows us to feel, think, and react in ways we want and need to live life appropriately.
On the other hand, you could have periods of poor mental health, and you will find that you are frequently feeling, thinking, and reacting in ways that are almost impossible for you to cope with. It is as bad as having a physical illness, maybe even worse.
A large percentage of adults, teenagers, and children are affected by a mental health problem. In addition, many people in your family, school, workplace, church, neighborhood, etc., may be suffering from one form of mental health disorder or the other without your knowledge.
Mental health problems are becoming more common around us, ranging from the common ones such as anxiety, and depression, to the rare ones such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
Sadly, many people do not receive treatment for these issues due to stigma. Of course, no one wants to live with the stigma of being a mental health patient. However, when left untreated, mental health problems can lead to poor academic or work performance, higher medical expenses, increased risk of su***de, fewer employment opportunities, etc.
There has been a significant increase in the discussions surrounding mental health in recent years.
An increase in mental health awareness is welcomed because it removes the stigma surrounding mental health and encourages those suffering from these issues in silence to speak up and seek help.
Research shows that the fear of stigma and labeling is a significant factor affecting the willingness of people with mental health to disclose the illness and seek treatment.
Yet the trend continues, and the stats seem to worsen year after year.
Is something missing?
Or what do you think is missing?
State your thoughts in the caption below!
