Mental illness is serious and can affect any one of us. It does not necessarily mean people are “mad”.
There are many sufferers of mental illness in the community. They could be suffering depression, bipolar disorders, post natal depression, schizophrenia or Alzheimer’s.
The month of October has been declared Mental Health Awareness Month with the objective of not only educating the public, but also to lessen the stigma attached to it and the discrimination people with mental illness are often subjected to.
Mental illness is a disease and needs to be addressed as such. Proper treatment and appropriate care needs to be given. In some cases people need medication.
With the rate of HIV/Aids infections increasing, mental illnesses are also increasing. Many people can’t deal with their or their partners’ status. And with poor family support structures, it sometimes leads to depression and anxiety disorders.
Mental disorders refer to a broad category of disorders such as affective or mood disorders (major depression) and different anxiety disorders (generalised anxiety disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder).
Their essential features are emotional disturbances, excessive worry and negative thinking, or by somatic expressions (unexplained medical symptoms that are often what get the sufferers to seek primary health care).
The way we lead our lives also impacts on our mental health. In some, not all, mental disorders, people are able to change their mindset and make positive, practical changes to their lives. This helps them feel better about living and assists in healthy relationships. People need to be able to get along with their peers and others in the community, at work and during leisure time.
Life can be harsh with stressful work and family situations, and especially during these tough economic times where financial stress is also a burden. Being mentally healthy means being able to cope with all these pressures.
In some mental disorders, stress can be channelled in a creative manner such as exercising and hobbies such as home gardening, sewing, dancing, etc.
People should be able to handle stress and problems effectively. A positive attitude and focusing on the good things in life help to create good mental health.
Seek professional help if you or a member of the community needs treatment or advice. There are also many support groups and non-governmental organisations where help or advice can be found.
If you suspect someone is mentally ill, you can take the person to Eastbank clinic in Alex. If a family member is prescribed medication, it is extremely important that the person takes it.
