Mental health awareness

Understanding Mental Health

Mental health, also known as mental well-being, relates to a person's emotional, psychological, and mental condition.

You should be aware that significant life events impacting a person's personality and behavior can affect their mental health. For example, early childhood abuse, prolonged severe stress without proper management, and domestic violence. These conditions can disturb someone's mental state, leading to symptoms of mental health disorders.

Mental health issues can alter how a person handles stress, interacts with others, makes choices, and may trigger self-harm urges.

Causes of Mental Health Disorders

When someone experiences mental health disorders or poor mental health, there are usually triggers. One major cause is trauma from past adverse events. Other causes include:

- Family history of mental health disorders or genetic factors.

- Living in an unhealthy residential environment.

- Being a victim of discrimination and stigma.

- Social isolation or loneliness.

- Prolonged severe stress.

- Head injuries.

- Brain disorders or chemical imbalances in the brain.

- Significant financial loss, such as bankruptcy or debt.

- Job loss, unemployment, or homelessness.

- Substance abuse or excessive alcohol consumption.

- Severe trauma, like serious accidents or war situations.

Symptoms of Mental Health Disorders

Symptoms of mental disorders can vary depending on the type of mental illness. However, some common symptoms include:

- Difficulty focusing and concentrating.

- Trouble managing stress or daily problems.

- Excessive emotional reactions and prone to violence.

- Frequent shouting or fighting.

- Hallucinations or paranoia.

- Withdrawal from social activities.

- Loss of interest and motivation in previously enjoyed activities.

- Thoughts of self-harm or harming others.

- Suicidal thoughts.

- Sudden mood changes.

- Changes in eating habits, like loss of appetite or overeating.

- Excessive anxiety, fear, worry, hopelessness, and sadness.

- Frequent fatigue and sleep problems.

- Changes in sexual drive.

- Disrupted daily routines and decreased productivity or performance.

- Difficulty understanding others.

- Confusion, forgetfulness, and irritability.

- Loss of self-confidence.

Diagnosis of Mental Health Disorders

Doctors diagnose mental health disorders through anamnesis or medical interviews to understand behavioral symptoms, life experiences, health history, medication history, and family medical history.

The diagnosis process also involves physical examinations to rule out indications or symptoms of other diseases. In some cases, doctors conduct additional tests, such as drug and alcohol screenings, thyroid function tests, and CT scans to ensure no brain issues.

Comprehensive examinations are crucial for diagnosing mental health disorders and determining the necessary treatment for patients.

Treatment of Mental Health Disorders

Several treatment methods can be recommended by doctors to help patients manage or overcome their mental health conditions. The chosen method depends on the patient's mental health condition. Some treatments include:

1. Medication

Medication should be taken according to the doctor's prescription to address symptoms caused by chemical imbalances in the brain. Doctors may also suggest psychotherapy to enhance treatment effectiveness. Commonly prescribed medications include tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).

2. Psychotherapy

Through psychotherapy, patients can express their feelings and thoughts, and doctors can provide appropriate guidance. Psychotherapy helps patients control their emotions and manage their behavior. Common psychotherapies include exposure therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.

3. Supporting Groups

Patients are often encouraged to join support groups consisting of individuals with similar experiences or those who have recovered. These groups offer a platform to share experiences and advice, aiding the recovery process.

4. Brain Stimulation

Brain stimulation techniques include transcranial magnetic stimulation, vagus nerve stimulation, electroconvulsive therapy, and deep brain stimulation. These methods are effective in treating mental health disorders.

5. Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is provided for patients with mental health issues due to substance abuse, aiming to eliminate dependency on these substances.

6. Hospital Care

In cases requiring strict medical supervision, patients may need intensive hospital care to prevent emergencies like suicide attempts.

7. Self-Care

Patients can also manage their mental health independently by adopting a healthy lifestyle and effectively managing stress.

Maintaining Mental Health

Maintaining mental health is similar to maintaining physical health through a healthy lifestyle, such as:

- Thinking positively and affirming oneself.

- Managing stress well.

- Exercising regularly.

- Maintaining good relationships with others.