Previously on Newsletters from ANEP,
We talked about the importance of health and how we often neglect our mental health, forgetting the huge role it plays in our overall well-being. Our takeaway from last week was that mental health goals are a must.
Today…
Just like the way we cannot discuss physical health without making mention of illness, this logic also applies to mental health. This is because health and illness exist on a continuum.
What do you mean?
It means that health and illness are related. Throughout the course of our existence, human beings progress from one end of the continuum to the next. That is, through our actions over time, we move from being healthy to being sick and back again. This is why it is advised to adopt a healthy style of living, to slow down the progression towards contracting an illness.
What is a mental illness?
A mental illness is any medical condition that affects our feelings, patterns of thought and behaviour. It is important to note that mental illnesses are just like physiological illnesses.
In what ways?
First of all, mental illnesses vary in severity. While some may be acute and can go away after some time, others can be chronic and may require a lifetime of treatment. Physical illnesses can affect other areas of an individual, including their mental state. Mental illnesses can also have physiological manifestations.
Mental illnesses can also be treated in the same manner as physical illnesses, e.g. the use of medication, physical therapy, etc.
If mental illnesses are just medical disorders, why do we find them so scary?
In this part of the world, the mentally ill experience a lot of stigmas. This draws away focus from conscious preservation of mental health, and places focus on the fear and myths associated with mental illness. These dangerous beliefs affect the quality of care given to those with a mental illness.
A lack of proper education on mental health is also another fundamental reason for this attitude.
Finally,
What do you think about mental health and illnesses? Please leave a comment. Do you know someone who may need enlightenment on mental illness? Share this with them. If you need help understanding mental illness, please send us an email at info@anep.com.ng
To be continued next week,
Ewoma Omoghene