The World Health Organisation defines mental health as “a state of well-being in which the individual realises his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community”. A key phrase I would like to highlight from this definition is ‘cope with the normal stresses of life’. Life can indeed be stressful! We build resilience over time and the ability to cope with normal stresses is dependent on how resilient you are. Everyone’s resilience level differs hence, it is unjustifiable to expect everyone to have the same coping mechanism; even when faced with similar situations.
There are many accepted definitions of mental ill health however, I have opted to use the American Psychiatrist definition due to some key words used. “Mental illnesses are health conditions involving changes in emotion, thinking or behaviour (or a combination). Mental illnesses can be associated with distress and/or problems functioning in social, work, or family activities”. Mental ill health does not discriminate which means anyone can experience it. Changes in emotions, thinking, and behaviours can happen to anyone at any time. Some everyday stressors that can bring about changes in emotions include the loss of a job, the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship, writing an exam, relocating to a new area, various forms of abuse that can happen in the home or in the workplace, even having a new baby…the list is endless. Some people work well under pressure and see stressful situations as a positive challenge to boost their resilience, others may not be able to cope with stress.
When stressful situations are not well managed, it has a ripple effect that can lead to multiple issues like a strain in relationships, loss of a livelihood, mismanaged finance, and isolation.
There are so many types of mental ill health like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), schizophrenia, eating disorders, disruptive behaviour / antisocial disorders, and neurodevelopment disorders. Depression and anxiety are one of the most common mental ill health that cuts across all ages, culture, status, and other factors. Depression and anxiety are illnesses that people try very hard to hide, but like all illnesses, if help is not sought can result in extreme behaviours like hurting others or hurting themselves.
The solution? There needs to be more awareness and discussions around mental health. There is nothing wrong when people do not feel okay and cannot pinpoint exactly what is wrong. It is not always a spiritual problem as some cultures and religions would suggest. Some people may just need a trusted person they can open up to without feeling judged or stigmatised. Emotional literacy needs to be encouraged, at home, in school, in the workplace, and in the community at large. This will enable people to empathise and find ways to support others who may be experiencing mental ill health. Just as we go to the gym for our physical health and take steps to stay healthy, we also need a ‘gym’ for our mental health and this can start with a conversation where people get encouraged to build their resilience, improve their mental health, and manage their emotions and behaviours.
In summary, Life is full of ups and downs. It is ok not to feel so great sometimes, but it’s not ok to bottle it in. Stop suffering in silence. Speak out! Get in touch with Issy, let’s start that conversation.
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