KNOW THE BASICS OF MENTAL HEALTH

What is Mental Health?

Mental health is not just the absence of mental disorder. It is defined as a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.

When we are mentally healthy, we can be able to fully enjoy and appreciate other people, our day-to-day lives and our environment.

What is mental illness?

A mental illness is a health problem that significantly affects how a person thinks, behaves and interacts with other people. It is diagnosed according to standardised criteria used by mental health professionals.

A mental health problem also affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves, but to a lesser extent than a mental illness.

Mental illnesses are of different types and degrees of severity.  Some of the major types are:

1. AnxietyDisorders
2. Schizophrenia
3. Bipolar mood disorder
4. Personality disorders
5. Eating disorders
6. Depression

These illnesses may also be referred to as a mental disorders, mental impairment or psychiatric disability.

Factors that Contribute to Mental Illness

Mental illness results from complex interactions between the mind, body and environment.  Factors which can contribute to mental illness include:

1. long-term and acute stress
2. biological factors such as genetics, chemistry and hormones
3. use of alcohol, drugs and other substances
4. cognitive patterns such as constant negative thoughts and low self esteem
5. social factors such as isolation, financial problems, family breakdown or violence

 What Can we do to improve our Mental Health

A few tips for positive mental health include:

1. Talking about or express our feelings to people we trust
2. Exercising regularly
3. Eating healthy meals
4. Getting enough sleep
5. Spending time with friends and loved ones
6. Developing new skills
7. Relaxing and enjoying our hobbies
8. Setting realistic goals for ourselves and others
9. Talking to General practitioners or mental health professionals in case we encounter overwhelming problems

Common myths about mental illness

Myth: Mental illness only affects a few people.

Fact:

Mental illness is common. One in five Australians will experience a mental illness. It affects people of all ages, educational and income levels and cultures.

Myth: Mental illness is caused by a personal weakness.

Fact:

A mental illness is not a character flaw. It is caused by genetic, biological, social and environmental factors. Seeking and accepting help is a sign of strength.

Myth: People with a mental illness never get better.

Fact:

With the right kind of help, most people do recover and lead healthy, productive and satisfying lives.

Myth: People with a mental illness can “pull themselves out of it”.

Fact:

A mental illness is not caused by personal weakness and is not “cured” by personal strength.

Myth: People with a mental illness are violent.

Fact:

People with a mental illness are no more violent or dangerous than the rest of the population. People with a mental illness are more likely to harm themselves – or to be harmed – than they are to hurt other people.

Myth: People with a mental illness should be kept in hospital.

Fact:

With appropriate treatment and support, people with mental illness can live successfully in the community.  In fact, the majority of people with a mental illness live independently in the community.

We at the Nairobi Parenting Clinic and Nairobi Mental Health Services do wish our readers a happy and educative International Youth Day as we continue to learn more on Mental Health. Please get in touch with us in case you have any questions on the same.