What is Mental Health?
Mental health is the combined state of our emotional, physical, and social wellbeing.
While some folks may think it is only related to our feelings or emotions, it is made of so much more.
It comprises several facets of our lives and influences our thoughts, behaviors, and
emotions. Our mental health is just as important as our physical health, and can even impact
our physical health, or vice versa.
In many cases, having a holistic approach to mental health may be beneficial. Healing
happens within the whole person, so it would be difficult to ignore the impact that the eight
dimensions of wellness have on our mental health. The eight dimensions of wellness are
emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, physical, social, spiritual, and vocational
wellness. Considering recent events and the technological advancements we are making as a society, there may be an argument that technological wellness could be considered the ninth dimension of wellness. Not only do the eight dimensions of wellness play a role in mental health, but there are also biological factors, life events, and family history of mental health problems to consider.
In short, mental health is the state or level of functioning that we have. It can be
measured, assessed, and treated. While everyone may have different personal definitions of
mental health, one thing is certain. Everyone has a responsibility to learn about mental health and how to care for it.
Common Stigmas and Implications
There are many negative stigmas ingrained within our society that are designed to make mental health something to be ashamed of. As we continue to move forward and beyond the tight-lipped tendencies of society, we are now understanding that mental health is not a niche “issue” or “problem.” Instead, it is a normal and even common facet of life. So, why are stigmas harmful when it relates to mental health? Here are a few negative consequences of mental health stigmas.
Barriers to service-seeking behaviors.
Decreased utilization of mental health services.
Hidden feelings, thoughts, or emotions.
Low expressed emotionality (especially in male-identifying populations).
Untreated mental illness.
Increased suicidality or likelihood of completing suicide.
Lack of funding or support for mental health workers and institutions.
Ignorance regarding mental health and its importance.
These are only a few of the negative consequences posed by negative stigmas, many of which have a cyclical relationship with others, further perpetuating negative biases. It is crucial for the world to move beyond these stigmas to better serve people in need. There are many citizens of the world who struggle to access mental health services even without considering the consequences of these stigmas. The World Health Organization made an excellent point that people who experience mental health conditions continue to suffer from discrimination and even experience severe human rights violations. Dismantling the precedent that has been set regarding mental illness is one way that we can reduce treatment barriers and normalize service-seeking behaviors.
How have we improved?
There has been an increase in mental health conditions and substance use disorders over time. With this, we have made some improvements in the field of mental health. Increased awareness, media representation, more online resources, and the incorporation of telehealth treatment modalities have been effective in reaching a wider audience of people. There are a few different organizations that aim to normalize mental health and engage in community outreach. As a result of outreach programming, stigmas about mental health have decreased over time. Certain schools and universities have made mental health a priority by including it in their curriculum or course syllabi, making it evident from day one that mental health will be discussed.
What can we do moving forward?
On a societal level, we need more research and funding in the field of mental health. With greater access to resources, many people are ready to engage in counseling but may face treatment barriers like lack of access, long waiting lists, and insurance problems. Greater healthcare coverage is needed to allow for equitable access to services. Increasing education related to coping skills and identifying emotions would also be beneficial so that younger generations are prepared when they begin to experience mental health difficulties.
On a personal level, we can check in with ourselves more, increase mindfulness, and engage in open communication with our friends, family, and loved ones. Opening up about mental health and working together to come up with coping strategies, supporting one another, and normalizing emotions are ways that we can move forward. The days of shame and secrets surrounding mental health are over. Hopefully expressing ourselves and having easy access to care will become the norm.
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This post was written by Shannon France, MS, MHC-LP, and published by Mandevilla Mental Health Counseling, PLLC