Mental health is not merely the absence of mental illness. the World Health Organization (WHO) describes Mental Health, as a state of well-being in which individual realizes his or her own capabilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully and is able to make a contribution to his or her own community. (WHO 2001).
What is Mental Ill-Health?
Mental Ill-Health is a disturbance in person’s thoughts, feelings and behavior that affects and is affected by his/her interaction with others and his/her environment.
Early intervention is needed to address these mental health problems before it becomes a mental disorder or a potentially life-threatening disorder.
What is Mental Disorder?
It is medically diagnosable illness that results in the significant impairment of an individual’s cognitive and affective and relational abilities. It is equivalent to mental illness.
Who may develop mental illness?
Any person regardless of race, nationality, age, gender, civil status and socio-economic background may develop mental illness.
What causes mental illness?
a. Biological & Physical
Physiological or structural process that may influence a person’s behavior. E.g. Neuro-chemical imbalance, brain damage, etc.
b. Psychological
Thoughts and feelings about the self and others, that determines one’s behavior. E.g. failure to adjust to the difficulties of life, low self esteem, etc.
c. Socio-cultural
Cultural, environmental and familial influences on ones thoughts, feelings and behavior. E.g. unemployment, discrimination, violence, etc.
Mental Illness could be prevented:
Maintain good physical health.
Choose worthwhile activities and develop a hobby.
Solve problems as they come and avoid excessive worrying.
Cultivate friendships and choose a friend in whom you can confide.
Strike a happy medium between work and play.
Recognize early signs and symptoms.
Early Signs and Symptoms
Persistent disturbance in sleep and appetite.
Loss of interest in activities or responsibilities of previous concern.
Persistent seclusion of oneself from other people.
Frequent attacks of palpitations usually expressed as “nerbyos” associated with unexplained fears.
Over sensitiveness and irritability.
How is mental illness detected?
1.Interview and assessment of the Clinical Social Worker.
2.Psychological testing and evaluation.
3.Psychiatric interview and mental status examination.
Is Mental Illness Curable?
YES!. Mental illness is curable if detected early and prompt and adequate treatment is given. Treatment depends on severity of illness and includes:
Pharmacotherapy
Various therapies (physical, recreational, occupational, environmental)
Psychotherapy and others.
Where can one Seek Advice and Treatment of Mental Illness?
1.Family Physician
2.School Guidance Counselor
3.Trained Mental Health Worker
4.Private Psychiatrist
5.Government Mental Institutions
6.Private Hospitals with Psychiatric Services 7.Philippine Mental Health Association (PMHA)
