What is Mental Health? 

Mental health refers to a person’s emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing. It influences the way we think, behave, and act. It also affects how we deal with stress, interacts with others, and make clear choices. Mental health is critical at all stages of life, including childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Poor mental health and mental illness are not the same things, even though the words are often used interchangeably.

These are the few definitions available online today but what is mental health actually? Mental health is not restricted by these definitions. It is more than what we assume it to be and affects more people than we realize.

You might have experienced some trauma, or some issues related to mental health. But you are not the only one going through this phase. Every year, mental illnesses impact 19 per cent of adults, 46 per cent of adolescents, and 13 per cent of youth (Holthaus, 2021). People who have mental illness could be in your family, live next door, educate your children, work in the next cubicle, or sit in the same church pew as you. However, just half of those affected undergo care, owing to the stigma associated with mental illness. These untreated mental disorders will lead to higher medical costs, lower academic and work success, fewer job opportunities, and an increased risk of suicide.

Repercussions of COVID 19 on Mental Health 

Even though Australia is now predominantly COVID-free, the pandemic’s repercussions are already being felt.  Many individuals will continue to suffer from inadequate mental health or face additional mental health problems as the pandemic approaches its second year. Now is the reason to contemplate long-term, evidence-based mental health services that will help Australian’s cope with the psychological effects of the pandemic in 2021 and beyond.

Many of us have experienced heightened anxiety because of Covid-19, and researchers fear that a significant number of people may develop mental health issues that last after the pandemic. Present insights from recent pandemics and national emergencies are one reason psychologists are worried about Covid-19’s future long-term effects. The global SARS epidemic in 2003 was linked to a 30 percent rise in suicides by people over 65. Quarantine, which is used to prevent virus transmission, may have a detrimental psychological effect, causing post-traumatic stress symptoms, depression, and insomnia (Savage, 2021).

During a global economic crisis, job loss and financial difficulties have been linked to a long-term deterioration in mental health. Psychiatrists believe it’s necessary to recognize several positive takeaways, despite continued worries about the long “tail” of mental health issues triggered by Covid-19’s impact.

Why is mental health important for overall health? 

Both mental and physical wellbeing are essential components of general wellbeing. Many forms of physical health issues, including long-term conditions like stroke, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease, are increased by mental illness, especially depression. In the same way, the prevalence of chronic illnesses will raise the risk of mental health.

Can your mental health change over time? Yes, it’s crucial to keep in mind that a person’s mental health will fluctuate over time, based on various factors. When a person’s resources and coping abilities are stretched beyond their limits, their mental health will suffer. For example, if someone is working long hours, caring for a sick relative, or going through financial distress, their mental health can suffer.

How can you help?

You can help by becoming more aware and open, by reading more on topics related to mental health, by talking to people around you and by choosing a career in this stream.

You can choose IHNA’s CHC53315 Diploma of Mental Health to expand your knowledge and work towards fighting the stigma of Mental Health.

A Diploma in Mental Health is a professional qualification that teaches you how and when to care for individuals who have mental health problems. People continue to deal with emotional issues that conflict and constrict them, and they often fail to find the best advocates to assist them with getting back on track. They will be inspired to overcome their struggles and live a happier life in any way with the right help.

• IHNA’s Diploma of Mental Health is: 40-week full time program,
• Available at: Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney campus (blended delivery available).
• Course Fees: $9900
• Government Funding Available

For more details: Visit IHNA’s Website

The curriculum will prepare you to offer counselling, referral, advocacy, and education/health promotion programs, as this role involves a person-centred approach.

Join our CHC53315 Diploma of Mental Health and become an expert and expertise your skills on the policies that are concerning people with mental health problems.

 

So, rather than asking, “What’s the issue?”

Let’s start a conversation with ‘What’s going well?’ 

 

 
Related Blog: Mental Health Care For All: Let’s Make It a Reality