Reasons Why Mental Health Is So Important
You may have a bad day, but it doesn’t mean that it’s a bad life. The way you respond to it and take care of mental health is what’s important. Mental health plays a part in every stage of our lives. It comprises our overall well-being. According to the World Health Organisation, around 7.5% of Indians suffer from some mental disorder. As per the prediction, roughly around 20% of India might be suffering from mental illnesses by the end of the year. This means that mental health remains a frequent issue among our population and affect things we do. Unfortunately, suicide rates rise when mental health is neglected. In India, suicide was the most common cause of death in 15–39 years age group. Mental health becomes important as it affects our ability to adapt, cope, and solve problems. Alternatively, It affects the ability to be productive, happy, and well adjusted. Mental health issues are generally stigmatized in our society. People suffering from mental health disorders are less likely to get help because of the stigma of shame. However, first things first, there is nothing to be ashamed of. Things remain untangled when left untreated. Here are the reasons why mental health becomes so important.
1. Mental health can affect physical health
Mental illness will matter as much as any other disease. It can take one’s life as quickly as any other disease could. For example, depression might lead to suicidal ideas. If untreated, it can also lead to suicidal attempts. Mental ailments are the root cause of stress, which is related to the low immune system, i.e. more frequent sickness. With the release of the stress hormones, you will find a rise in the heart rate, breathing, blood sugar levels, etc. Over time, the release of stress hormones will affect your heart, muscles, blood vessels, and other systems. Some people turn to drugs and alcohol as a short term treatment, affecting overall health and stability. When not treated right, mental health becomes a cycle of destructive behaviour. Thus, knowing about both mental and physical health are equally important.
2. End of stigma and shame for better lives It is important to talk about mental health so that people facing the issues come forward about it. People tend to feel ashamed as they perceive that they are not typical. They are further affecting our ability to cope with life. Society judges people having a mental illness, which leads them to not speak about the same. In turn, destructive behaviour leads to the deterioration of the self. Without awareness, people facing mental issues won’t reach out for help. Killing this stigma and shame lead to a decrease in suicidal thoughts. A psychologist can work on the cure as the first phase of the cure is acceptance.
3. Mental Health Affects Everything Untreated mental illness will lead to hopelessness and sadness, feeling guilty, worthlessness, anxiety, fear, etc. Your relationships may suffer due to your mental illness. Your performance can exponentially decline in case you are facing mental disorders. Life might become overwhelming. In severe mental health issues, we might lose touch with reality and even hear voices. As per the previous studies, people tend to self-harm and develop a destructive pattern. Overall, things shall fall apart if we do not take treating mental health seriously. Thus, mental health issues are essential. It’s important to learn and care about them.
All in All Everyone deserves to have peace of mind. Thus, getting a cure, reaching out to a professional becomes important. You could even help one by becoming a professional psychologist. The academic path towards becoming a psychologist shall start with pursuing BA Hons. in Psychology. Even if you are not facing any mental health issues, talking about it can help people reaching out to you.