Mental health, defined according to the World Health Organization, is a state of well being in which an individual realizes his/her capabilities, is able to cope up with the challenges of everyday life, is able to work productively, and is able to contribute to his or her society. Being mentally healthy may also include the ability to identify with others and relating to them on a personal level, to learn new things, develop skills and talents, and be able to live a productive and happy life. The state of mental health should not be confused with disease or illness. It is a general disposition that promotes wellness.
There are many causes of mental illness and some of the common reasons why people get help when they have a mental disorder are: depression, stress, trauma, or illness. If you or your loved one is displaying these symptoms, there are ways to get help. Getting help from healthcare professionals such as doctors and psychiatrists does not always guarantee getting appropriate treatment for the illness or disorder. Sometimes, the treatment they offer may not be what you need to address your issues.
It is important to get help when symptoms of a mental illness are evident. Symptoms may include feeling constantly nervous or agitated, constant fatigue or moodiness, suicidal thoughts, aggressive actions, constant thoughts of violence or harm towards self or others, or substance abuse. These symptoms are usually caused by a combination of factors, such as stressful life events, a faulty view of reality, lack of support from family and friends, unrealistic expectations, and low self-esteem. There are many people who do not recognize the signs of these disorders, which leads to a cycle of recurrence of symptoms. When this happens, many people with mental health issues feel alone and are unable to address their issues. It is therefore imperative to seek treatment.
In addition to seeking help from mental health professionals, there are other ways to get help. Primary care providers, or family and friends, can provide information and support when symptoms of mental illnesses are obvious. However, if someone close to you is exhibiting these symptoms, it is still important to get help. This is because even if someone else in your life has the ability to recognize symptoms and offer support, it is you, the individual, who can determine whether you need to seek professional help or whether your loved one should just wait out the symptoms until he or she is able to address them on their own. The best way to decide is to take control of your own health and well being.
Depression and anxiety are also closely related to mental health disorders. They are often characterized by intense emotional states coupled with physical changes. These disorders lead to a loss of personal reasoning and affective behaviors as well as significant social skills, which are necessary for a healthy functioning member of society. It can be difficult to detect early depression because symptoms can mimic those of other diseases or conditions.
Anxiety disorders can lead to panic attacks, obsessive compulsive behaviors (OCD), and delusional beliefs ( delusions). People who suffer from depression are more likely to engage in self-harm, self-directed violence (SDV), and suicide attempts. There is a difference between depression and other mood disorders because people with depression have no wish to harm themselves or others. Those with OCD and other disorders, however, engage in self-directed behaviors (SSV) that can lead to serious harm or death.
Self-harm and suicidal attempts are evident among people with OCD. It is not unusual for people with OCD to feel that their lives are constantly threatened. Their negative thoughts often lead to depression, anxiety, and negative thoughts about their work or relationships, which are often magnified by the presence of co-occurring mental health issues. Those with positive emotions (especially healthy emotions like excitement, joy, hope, optimism, and love) are far less likely to engage in senseless violence or suicide attempts. In fact, those with positive emotions are more likely to work productively throughout their lives.
Those who are diagnosed with some type of mental disorder are encouraged to seek help from a professional who can offer support through symptom management, cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication, or therapy. Those who have co-occurring disorders should seek treatment from a psychiatrist, psychologist, or mental health specialist. These professionals can provide support and assistance to those who need it most. Most important, though, is for sufferers to seek treatment so that they can overcome the disorder and live productive and happy lives.