Why Mental Health Should… Come First
The brain is an extraordinary part of the human body. It is single-handedly responsible for allowing us to take in, process, and shape our worlds.
But, did you know that mental health conditions account for approximately 15% of the global burden of disease?
And, affecting around 300 million people globally - that makes depression one of the most common mental illnesses. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) has projected that, by 2030, it will be the leading cause of the disease burden on the globe.
Did you also know that a variety of factors, in addition to long-term stress and genetics, can contribute to mental illnesses? These include:
- Physical causes, like nutrition status, head injury, neurological condition, and perinatal illness
- Childhood experiences, like abuse and trauma
- Standards of living and socioeconomic status
- Working conditions and job-related factors
- Social conditions, like discrimination and isolation
- Exposure to environmental hazards
- Accessibility to health care and adequate support & resources
Mental Health Should… Be Taken Seriously and Made a Priority
Mental health matters. But, what does that mean exactly - to make your mental health a priority?
As mentioned, mental health issues are more common than you might think, and early discovery and recognition can make a huge difference in the outcomes.
Why should you prioritise mental health?
Well, mental and emotional health can affect your physical health, and vice versa. All three health types are interconnected. If you maintain all of them, then you’ll feel way better than if you only focus on one.
There are also many benefits of prioritising your mental health. Chief among them are:
- Improved self-esteem
- Increased energy
- Reduced risk of depression and/or anxiety
- Better mood and clearer thinking
- Decreased stress and a sense of calm
Mental Health Should… Matter as Much, If Not MORE Than Physical Health
When we think of our health, we tend to prioritise the physical- over mental health, if not to the exclusion of mental health.
Instead, we should address mental health the same way we would approach our physical health, if not with more due care. Our health – body & mind – deserves nothing less!
But, we also know that supporting mental health, and making it a priority, can mean something completely different for each person.
Mental Health Shouldn’t… Be Stigmatised
If someone is struggling with mental illness, such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), they may not present many symptoms outwardly. At the same time, the stigma that still surrounds mental illness can make those who are struggling, less likely to seek help.
This doesn’t mean that people aren’t trying to end the stigma, however. Presently, one of the biggest campaigns to raise awareness is Bell’s Let’s Talk. If you want to help end the stigma, here are 5 simple ways that Bell outlines to start the conversation.
- Educate yourself - know the facts and myths about mental illness
- Your words matter - help, don’t judge - and this starts with your language
- Be kind - simple acts of kindness; if you can be anything, be kind
- Listen and ask - simply being there for people you care about, asking “how are you?” and being a good listener can be a great first step!
- Talk about it - be open to a conversation (2 out of 3 people suffer in silence in fear of judgement or rejection)
“When it comes to mental health, now more than ever, every action counts.”
- Bell Let's Talk
Conclusion
At Doseology, we aim to make a meaningful impact on the mental health crisis and improve overall health - one body & mind at a time.
It bears repeating… mental health matters! So together, let’s help break the stigma.
Have you made YOUR mental health a priority today?
