On October 10^th we celebrate mental health day, to shed light on mental health

It’s likely that you know someone that is currently struggling with mental health conditions. We all know someone in our inner circle that can benefit from a mental health care professional’s help.

Mental health day is dedicated to increasing public awareness and education about mental health problems worldwide. Additionally, it is also to reduce the social stigma attached to mental health issues and rather to celebrate the recoveries from mental health problems, and help those in need receive treatment.

Due to the many misconceptions surrounding mental health, people often deal with it in silence and do not seek treatment for their conditions. Mental health awareness initiatives seek to increase the understanding of mental health struggles and ensure access to treatment and healthcare for those in need.

The initiative to raise awareness about mental health conditions is an important part of society to improve the understanding of the struggles and improve access to healthcare for those who need it.

Whether or not someone struggles with mental health, society needs to understand the impact that mental health has on an individual’s daily life. Mental health day provides recognition and education about the reality of living with a mental health condition and encourages those struggling to seek help or find a supportive network.

Even though it can make life feel difficult, it doesn’t have to stop someone from living a fulfilling life. Educating society about these conditions can improve the support and help of someone who is dealing with mental health problems.

If you continue reading, you will find out the causes and symptoms of mental health problems and might be able to help someone you know who struggles with a mental health problem.

The symptoms and causes of mental health problems

Depending on the type of mental health condition, the symptoms and causes can vary. Still, they affect emotions, thoughts, and behaviours. Here are a few common symptoms and causes of mental health problems:

Signs and symptoms

• Consistency of sad feelings
• Confusion or lack of concentration
• Constant fears and worries
• Constant feelings of guilt
• Frequent mood swings of highs and lows
• Withdrawal from social life and activities
• Frequent tiredness and low energies
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Detachment from reality
• Paranoia or hallucinations
• Incapability to cope with daily challenges and stress
• Changes in appetite
• Suicidal thoughts

Causes:

• Feeling neglected
• Social isolation and loneliness
• Discrimination and stigma such as racism
• Social disadvantage, poverty and debt
• Grief
• Chronic stress
• Long-term physical health conditions
• Losing a job or unemployment
• Homelessness or an unhealthy environment
• Bullying or domestic violence
• Trauma
• Work environment
• Lack of sleep, and
• Unhealthy diet

Poor mental health can have a variety of causes. Although different people are affected by certain things differently, it does not mean there aren’t any treatments or support that can help them. As you read on, you’ll find many ways to take care of your mental health.