Mental health illnesses are usually underestimated. According to the American Psychiatry Association (APA), mental illnesses are health conditions disturbances in emotion, thinking, behaviour or a combination of these. According to the World Health Organization and World Economic Forum, “mental illness is the largest economic burden the world has today. Only about half of people in developed countries struggling with a mental illness get the help they need”.
It is therefore important to pay attention to oneself and the people around us. Mental illnesses are easily ignored or overlooked, and vastly underestimated. Even if you don’t suffer from depression, anxiety or one of dozens of other diagnoses, your mental health is as important as your physical health. The two affect each other quite a bit. In fact, people with major health conditions like diabetes, cancer or chronic pain often experience mental health issues on top of their physical health issues. Sometimes it’s difficult to find out which mental illness may be causing your symptoms. But taking the time and effort to get an accurate diagnosis will help determine the appropriate treatment. The more information you have, the more you will be prepared to work with your mental health professional in understanding what your symptoms may represent. A good support system is also key.
Here are some main warning signs of mental illness:
- Excessive paranoia, worry, anxiety, Long-lasting sadness or irritability.
- Extreme changes in moods and social withdrawal from friends and activities.
- Dramatic changes in eating or sleeping pattern.
- Confused thinking or reduced ability to concentrate
- Having suicidal or self-harm thoughts
- Emotional outburst such as extreme distress or anger
Knowledge of what to do about mental disorders has improved over time. It is important to note that mental illnesses like depression and anxiety are medical conditions and are very treatable. Furthermore, mental health checks are now available in medical facilities to ascertain if you are ill or not. It’s important to take care of our mind as well as we take care of our bodies. Here are some tips to stay mentally healthy:
- Live a healthy lifestyle: Eat healthy, be physically active and get enough sleep
- Find creative ways to safely connect with family and friends, get support, and share feelings
- Take breaks to relax and unwind through music, sports or new hobbies.
- Practice positive self-talk and reduce self-pressure by setting realistic goals
- Should you notice any issues with your mental health, seek professional help
Please remember that AXA Mansard Health plans provide you with access to consultation with professional doctors and therapists, who proffer solutions to your Mental health concern. Our Telemedicine service also provides free mental health consultation for our customers from the comfort of their phones. All you have to do is call 0700AXAMANSARD to access the service.
