Incarceration, economic insecurity, the deep crisis in the labour market, social isolation, fear, anxiety about our loved ones, have brought mental illness and its treatment to the centre of the debate. Many experts are sounding the alarm about the long-term consequences of the situation we are living in and stress the need to strengthen psychological support structures. Although until recently our society placed greater emphasis on the physical health of the individual, in recent years significant steps have been taken to raise public awareness of mental health.
What do we define as mental health?
Mental health is defined as a state of well-being in which each individual can successfully manage life's problems, work productively and participate actively in his or her social environment. It is not simply the absence of mental disorder, but the psycho-emotional well-being of the individual.
What factors affect mental health?
Mental health is influenced by many factors, such as genetic predisposition, socioeconomic background, childhood experiences, chronic conditions and substance abuse. As such, it is directly linked to areas such as education, health, employment, social inclusion and economic competence.
The intensity with which one experiences a difficulty is influenced by one's temperamental characteristics, experiences and exogenous variables. Everyone has their own limits and balances. When difficulties and problems exceed these limits, this has a direct impact on one's functioning and daily life.
Who is it for?
According to the World Health Organization, more than a third of the human population report problems at some point in their lives that fit the criteria for a diagnosis of one or more of the most common mental disorders. But even if one does not suffer from a mental illness, it is almost certain that the daily challenges and difficulties that accumulate threaten one's psychological balance. Therefore, shielding mental health is about each individual.
Who are the competent bodies?
Depending on the type of disorder, there is a different approach. The provision of quality care includes the area of mental health promotion and healthy interpersonal relationships, as well as the prevention and treatment of mental disorders. This care is organised according to the specific needs of the individual and his/her family. Services are provided by specialised agencies, psychiatric hospitals and the State, and the individual is assessed by psychiatrists and clinical psychologists. Psychotherapy and medication are the two main treatment options.
What do I need to do?
There are several things that one can do in order to ensure a balance in one's daily life. The first step, however, is to go to mental health professionals who will inform, guide and advise on what to do. Even if one does not suffer from a disorder, some useful advice from a specialist is valuable for everyday life.
Often, one hesitates to ask for help because one is ashamed, worried about appearing weak or afraid of not being understood and judged. The most difficult step is to make the decision. It requires bravery. At the same time, however, it offers redemption to anyone who makes this overcoming. All people, even the seemingly strongest, need psychological support and guidance.
Inference
Mental health is not a luxury. On the contrary, it is a prerequisite for a balanced and psycho-emotional well-being of the individual. Only in this way can one realise one's potential, cope with the daily stresses of life, live and work productively and comfortably, and be able to contribute to one's community.
Bibliography
https://www.moh.gov.cy/moh/moh.nsf/page17_gr/page17_gr?OpenDocument
https://health.ec.europa.eu/non-communicable-diseases/mental-health_el
https://www.animacare.gr/mental-health/ti-einai-i-psyxiki-ygeia
https://ygeia-news.com/liga-logia-gia-tin-psyxiki-ygeia.html
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