Why Is It Important To Talk About Mental Health?
There are several common talking points among mental health experts on why mental health is a significant issue in today’s society. Many of these issues, although severe, are entirely preventable:
- In the U.S. alone, there were almost 50,000 suicide deaths. Alarmingly, this is an increase of 36% from 2000 numbers. Moreover, 13.2 million people have contemplated suicide, with a staggering 1.6 million people attempting it (CDC).
- 15% of working-age adults suffer from some form of mental disorder. The lack of adequate support has affected these persons’ identity at work, confidence, productivity, and quality of life (WHO).
- Psychological issues affect physical problems as well, especially diabetes. Conversely, diabetes also affects mental health. The CDC cites that making each better positively affects the other.
These three statistics underscore the urgency of breaking the silence surrounding mental health. As both the CDC and WHO highlight, talking about mental health openly is essential to both individuals and society as a whole. In fact, they both point out that it is one of the most important actions that individuals and society need to take when it comes to improving mental health.
A Pressing Issue: The Stigma Preventing Mental Health Sufferers From Talking It Out
One of the most pressing reasons we are speaking up about the stigma surrounding conversations about mental health issues is to encourage people to open up about their own struggles. Mental health stigma presents a massive barrier to those who want to seek help. Because of the societal stigma surrounding mental health, being diagnosed with a mental health condition may lead to negative self-perception, social isolation, and discrimination, especially for those seeking employment or career advancement.
Though stigma is prevalent in all communities, groups that are already marginalized, like members of the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, education on mental health, its consequences, and the benefits of seeking professional help are crucial in overcoming negative stereotypes, supporting individuals, and forming a support structure. Education is what will ultimately break the stigma preventing members of these communities from receiving the help they need.
Why Is It Important To Seek Help for Mental Health Issues?
The good news is that while there are over 57 million Americans suffering from some form of mental health issue, discussions about mental health are also becoming an increasing trend. Best of all, the idea of seeking professional help is becoming an increasingly desirable option as the acceptance of receiving help for mental health issues grows.
Prevent Isolation
Having to manage or deal with mental health issues is an incredibly isolating experience, especially if it isn’t shared with anyone. Coping with these daunting battles alone isn’t a viable solution for anyone. Having to fight your own psychological battles alone can lead to the problem becoming worse. In some cases, the consequences may even be fatal. Seeking help means building a solid foundation through a community that understands what you are experiencing. This support network can provide appropriate guidance, help, and advice.
Prevents Medical Issues
As mentioned earlier, mental health issues are directly correlated to physical health issues, such as diabetes. Moreover, mental health also affects sleep patterns, substance abuse, smoking, digestive issues, obesity, and other illnesses (WebMD). Seeking help and appropriately addressing mental health issues can help curtail mental health-related medical problems.
Improves Quality of Life
Seeking help from qualified professionals for your mental health issues can improve your quality of life in several ways:
- Strengthen your societal skills and enable you to build a supportive community.
- You will develop coping strategies that can help you manage daily challenges.
- As earlier cited, you will improve your physical health in the long run.
- Best of all, you’ll wake up every day knowing that you are not alone with your mental health struggles.
Developing Effective Coping Strategies
Having qualified professionals helping you manage your mental health disorder means you don’t need to turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms to escape. Mental illness can bind sufferers to a state that makes affected individuals lack awareness of their own mental health and the consequences of leaving it untreated. Mental health professionals can provide effective strategies and healthy coping tools to manage your mental health as you navigate through the challenges these issues pose, which can be particularly helpful in preventing suicide (NIH).
Improves Productivity
Mental health affects how people perform their work (BetterUp). Mental health issues can lead to despondence, absenteeism, physical illness and decreased motivation. Addressing mental health in the workplace is crucial for employers who want to foster ideal working conditions, increase productivity, and reduce the costs associated with absenteeism and mental health issues in the workplace (NIH). Discussing and promoting mental health in the workplace can help employees overcome specific challenges that affect their well-being, mental fitness, and ability to perform their duties. Mental health professionals can provide guides and an avenue for addressing workplace issues that affect mental health and formulate appropriate coping strategies that will help employees perform, even when under immense work pressure.
What Are Signs That You Need Help?
What may feel as straightforward as being overwhelmed may be a telltale sign of mental health issues. Don’t worry, you are not alone. Most signs of mental health issues are challenging to detect. With almost a quarter of Americans living with mental illness, the signs that point to the need to seek professional help may be subtle.
You may experience significant changes in your thoughts and mood that affect your daily life, such as neglecting basic needs. These behavioral changes may manifest as excessive worry, sadness, anger, or fatigue. At times, especially in high-pressure situations, you might find it difficult to concentrate on your work.
Moreover, you might feel subtle bodily changes, such as headaches, stomachaches, and chronic pain. These changes may come in the form of sleep and eating patterns. Worse of all, you might have the urge to drink alcohol, take drugs, or contemplate suicide. If you are experiencing any of these signs, it;’s time to seek professional help to address your mental health issues appropriately before it’s too late.
At NuTrans Health, We Make Mental Health Care Accessible
Don’t let mental health stigma hold you back. Take the first step towards a healthier life. NuTrans Health offers mental health services that can address a broad range of issues:
- Outpatient Substance Use Disorders
- Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD Services
- Clinical Diagnosis and Assessment
- Medication-Assisted Treatment
NuTrans Health also offers the following therapy approaches:
- Psychoanalysis
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Psychodynamic Therapy
- Interpersonal Therapy
For personalized support and guidance:
