Giving your mental health priority

By Sara Mahdawi
Clinical Psychologist

I can’t emphasise how crucial it is to give our mental health the highest priority. You deserve to feel good; looking after our mental health is just as important as looking after our physical health.

Neglecting our mental health can have serious repercussions since it influences how we feel, think and behave. If you don’t take care of the engine in your car, it won’t run well, and the same is true of our mental health. 

Psychological issues

The stigma associated with mental illness can make people avoid seeking help. Many are reluctant to discuss their psychological problems because they worry about being judged or putting themselves at risk of being discriminated against. This can worsen mental health issues by causing feelings of humiliation and loneliness in addition to what they’re already going through.

A more inclusive society

However, it’s important to remember that psychological problems don’t discriminate. Mental health issues can affect anyone, regardless of their age, gender, race, or socio-economic status. We need to be kind to ourselves and others because, at the end of the day, everyone is fighting their own battle. By reducing stigma, we can promote a more inclusive and accepting society, where mental health issues are not taboo.

Mental illness is treatable, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Unfortunately, mental health hasn’t only been affecting individuals, but also society at large. The World Health Organisation estimates that mental illness accounts for approximately 15 per cent of the global burden of the disease.

Mental health related problems can lead to a series of social and economic problems such as decreased productivity and increased absenteeism in the workplace, which can result in economic losses for businesses and the overall economy.

The financial cost

Moreover, mental health issues can also lead to increased healthcare costs, as individuals may require more medical attention or hospitalisation. These costs can burden families and communities, and it could also lead to higher healthcare premiums and taxes.

It can also impact the social fabric of our communities. Individuals with untreated mental health conditions may struggle with maintaining relationships or engaging in social activities, which can lead to social isolation and feelings of loneliness. In some cases, individuals may turn to substance abuse or other unhealthy coping mechanisms to manage their symptoms, which can further compound their mental health issues and contribute to wider social problems like addiction and crime.

By raising awareness and reducing stigma around mental health, we can work towards creating a society where mental health is given the same level of importance as physical health. We can support individuals who are struggling with mental health issues and help them access resources and the treatment they need.

Care for ourselves

We can also work to create more supportive and inclusive communities, where individuals feel comfortable sharing their mental health concerns and receiving support from others. In doing so, we can foster a healthier and more productive society, where individuals can thrive both personally and professionally.

The best way to take care of your mental health is by taking care of yourself and others. By working together to prioritise mental health, we can create a brighter future for ourselves and make sure that everyone feels empowered to seek help when they need it.

Reprinted with permission from Family Flavours magazine