One in eight people globally are in some way struggling with mental health challenges, that effects the physical health and wellbeing of individuals and overall impacts the productive efficiency of working society. World Health Organisation (WHO) has marked October 10th as World Mental Health Day (WMHD) to highlight the challenges and raise awareness of mental health issues that impact the global health and provide an opportunity to all the stakeholders to share their challenges and strategies to support mental health care.
The theme suggested this year by WHO i.e. “Mental health is a universal human right” is devised to highlight the importance, improve knowledge, raise awareness and work on conclusive and collective action to address the issue. Mental health is a state of mental wellbeing that enables people to cope with the stresses of
life , realise their true potential and abilities in learning and contributing towards their society. As defined by the experts, there are three basic disorders that effect mental health of an individual. First and the most common is the anxiety disorder while the second is the mood disorder which is normally triggered by depression, bipolarity or Seasonal Affective Disorder; which is normally caused by change of weather e.g. fall / winter. The third and the most concerning disorder is schizophrenia; where an individual experiences complex psychotic behaviours and severe symptoms. Mental health affects the emotional, psychological and social well being of an individual regardless of age, sex or ethnicity. Be it men, women or children; everyone is prone to hazards of mental health depending on various circumstances. Like for example, mental health issues in children are usually due to child abuse (physical or emotional), parental loss or marital separation, parental illness or social status of a family. Teenagers today are also under immense pressure and face their own mental health challenges due to parental pressures, peer pressure, academic pressures and uncertainty in the continuous evolving world they’re stepping into. Men face mental health challenges generally due to excessive work load pressure and the societal pressure which expects them to be the providers of their family. Genetically they are less expressive in dealing with their emotions which affects their mental health.
In recent times, COVID has also left physical and mental scars on almost everyone across the globe; adding to the social and financial stresses which led to depression and anxiety effecting mental health. Biological factors such as genetic family history or brain chemistry also play a role in mental health and wellbeing. Symptoms of mental health disorders can lead to eating and sleeping disorders, low energy levels & physical fatigue, dependence on stimulants like alchohol, nicotine and drugs, emotional outbursts, loss of interest and focus in performing routine chores and thought of inflicting self-harm. The earlier one identifies and accept their condition, better are the chances of seeking help and recovering. Mental health affects quality of life, relationships and physical health. While historical attitudes and perceptions regarding mental health, especially in women, persist even today. Mental health is considered the least likely cause for behavioral outburst and/or declining physical health.
We may have overcome the concept of hysteria but still shy away from mental vulnerabilities and admitting to seek treatment. A strength of a person lies not in turning a blind eye towards their vulnerability but in identifying the cause and to make an effort in seeking treatment. Better and nourished mental health makes clear headed strong Individuals that eventually contribute to making a stable and saner society.
Regardless of the gender, nationality, or religion, mental health is a fundamental human right. Every individual must have access to knowledge and support to identify, accept and address the mental health challenges to lead a healthy and purposeful life.
——The writer is contributing columnist, based in Karachi.
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