Dear Editor,
One out of every two people in the world will develop a mental health disorder in their lifetime, according to a large-scale study co-led by researchers from Harvard Medical School and the University of Queensland. The study showed that the most common mental illnesses were mood disorders, such as major depression or anxiety, and that the risk of certain mental disorders differed by sex. The three most common mental health disorders among women were: depression, specific phobia a disabling anxiety that interferes with daily life and Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The three most common mental health disorders among men were: alcohol abuse, depression and specific phobia.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that more than 1 billion people are living with mental health disorders with conditions such as anxiety and depression contributing to immense human and economic tolls. While many countries have strengthened their mental health policies and programmes, greater investment and action are needed globally to scale up services to protect and promote people’s mental health.
Mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression are highly prevalent in all countries and communities, affecting people of all ages and income levels. They represent the second biggest reason for long-term disability, contributing to loss of healthy life. Undoubtedly such conditions increase health-care costs for affected people and families while inflicting substantial economic losses on a global scale.
Yet, despite global pronouncements and campaigns the issue of mental health is not taken seriously. This is rather unfortunate given that without a positive mental health there is no sense of overall wellness. Today’s fast paced life oftentimes comes with numerous crises. That feeling of being overwhelmed should never be taken lightly. Mental wellness is critical for us to achieve our personal goals. Yet, many goals have been derailed due to mental health issues.
Many individuals are struggling. It can be a daily struggle for some while for others it is occasional. Regardless, anxiety, panic attacks and depression are real. No one is immune from having a mental breakdown. Our race, position in life, wealth, educational attainment or gender cannot prevent us from having a mental health meltdown. Our students in particular are struggling. Many students do not know where or who to turn to for help. In many instances students are afraid to talk to adults in positions of authority and influence.
Globally, it is estimated that one in seven (14.3%) of 10–19-year-olds experience mental health conditions yet these remain largely unrecognized and untreated. Adolescents with mental health conditions are particularly vulnerable to social exclusion, discrimination, stigma (affecting readiness to seek help), educational difficulties, risk-taking behaviours, physical ill-health and human rights violations. Indeed the global community is at a mental health crisis. World Mental Health Day is observed on October 10 annually.
Access to Services Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies
This year’s World Mental Health Day theme, “Access to services – mental health in catastrophes and emergencies,” highlights the importance of safeguarding the mental health of both the communities we serve and colleagues who deliver this valuable work in times of crisis. In 2021, nearly 1 in every 7 people (1.1 billion) around the world were living with a mental disorder, with anxiety and depressive disorders the most common. In 2019, 280 million people were living with depression, including 23 million children and adolescents. Depression is different from usual mood fluctuations and short-lived emotional responses to challenges in everyday life.
During a depressive episode, the person experiences depressed mood (feeling sad, irritable, empty) or a loss of pleasure or interest in activities, for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. Several other symptoms are also present, which may include poor concentration, feelings of excessive guilt or low self-worth, hopelessness about the future, thoughts about dying or suicide, disrupted sleep, changes in appetite or weight, and feeling especially tired or low in energy.
People with depression are at an increased risk of suicide. In 2021, 41 million people, including children and adolescents, were living with conduct-dissocial disorder (1). This disorder, also known as conduct disorder, is one of two disruptive behaviour and dissocial disorders, the other is oppositional defiant disorder. Disruptive behaviour and dissocial disorders are characterised by persistent behaviour problems such as persistently defiant or disobedient to behaviours that persistently violate the basic rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms, rules, or laws.
Onset of disruptive and dissocial disorders, is commonly, though not always, during childhood. Effective psychological treatments exist, such as cognitive problem-solving and/or social skills training, and often involve parents, caregivers, and teachers. World Mental Health Day serves as a powerful reminder that there is no health without mental health. This day seeks to raise awareness about mental health issues, reduce stigma, and mobilize global efforts to improve access to mental health services.
This year’s campaign focuses on the urgent need to support the mental health and psychosocial needs of people affected by humanitarian emergencies. Crises such as natural disasters, conflicts, and public health emergencies cause emotional distress, with one in five individuals experiencing a mental health condition. Supporting the mental well-being of individuals during such crises is not just important it saves lives.
Mental Health Support
Mental health support, gives people the strength to cope, the space to heal and to recover and rebuild not only as individuals but as communities. It is for this reason why it is essential for everyone, including government officials, health and social care providers, school staff and community groups to come together. Sadly, mental health issues can result from abuse. If you are struggling with your mental health, you are not alone. Undoubtedly, access to affordable mental health services is vital in managing one’s mental health. Access to mental health services especially in rural areas continues to be of concern.
The number of deaths by suicide has increased in recent times. In some instances some of these individuals have reached out for help on social media nonetheless the help was not forthcoming.
The Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline of the Ministry of Health is 888 New Life (639-5433). Additionally, the Office of the Children’s Advocate also has a hotline in 888-SAFESPOT (888-723-3776), or the SafeSpot WhatsApp at 876-439-5199.
By collaborating closely, we can ensure the most vulnerable have access to the support they need while protecting the well-being of everyone. On this World Mental Health Day we must redouble our endeavours to work together to foster a culture of empathy and compassion. Let us deepen our resolve to create a world where mental health is valued, protected, and accessible for all, especially in the face of hardship.
In the words of Noam Shpancer, mental health is not a destination but a process.
Yours truly,
Wayne Campbell
