Mental Health: Awareness Is Just The Start

Millions of Americans struggle with mental health conditions daily, yet stigma and lack of access to care remain significant barriers. More than 1 billion people are living with mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression, affecting human function and economic tolls. While many countries have made an attempt to “help,” larger investment and action are needed globally to increase services that protect and prioritize people’s mental health.

What is mental health and why is it overlooked the way it is? Mental health is a state of well being where people can handle life challenges, use their skills, learn effectively and work well. It's valuable as a whole, important for functioning normally, and a fundamental right. Mental health varies from person to person and factors that shape that are environmental factors, individual family, community, and how one was raised. While most people are adaptable, those facing difficult situations are more likely to develop mental health issues. A mental illness is a physical illness of the brain that causes disturbances in thinking, behavior, energy or emotion that make it difficult to cope with the ordinary demands of life. A mental illness is a physical illness of the brain that causes disturbances in thinking, behavior, energy or emotion that make it difficult to cope with the ordinary demands of life. Mental health conditions include mental disorders, psychosocial disabilities, and mental states causing distress, impaired functioning or risk of self harm. (WHO)

Mental health is influenced by risks and protections at different levels. Individual risks can include emotional skills, substance use, and genetics can make mental health problems more likely. Poverty, violence, inequality, and poor environments increase the risk of mental health issues. (Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services) It's also important to focus on the mental health of kids and teens. Good ways to do this are through mental health laws and policies, helping parents and guardians, offering programs in schools, and making online and community spaces better. Social and emotional learning programs in schools are particularly helpful for everyone, no matter their income. Parents should all be educated on what their kids are going through. 

Eric is a student in Forsyth Satellite and he states that his school has become more educated on mental health in teens compared to other schools. He states that certain mechanisms such as photography paired with journaling have helped him get through his emotions and balance himself out. He talks about its importance because without being stabilized emotionally one isn't able to be themselves.

To add on, Vincent who's a counselor at Forsyth Satellite Academy states that the awareness of mental health has improved and teens are less afraid of asking for help. He states that young men have been seen to open up about their feelings and emotions even if it's in private. This shows a great improvement in the school environment and the way mental health is perceived. In closing, raising awareness about mental health is not just a noble cause, but a critical necessity for building a healthier, more empathetic society. By challenging stigmas, advocating for accessible resources, and fostering open conversations, we empower individuals to seek help, support one another, and prioritize their mental well-being.