Introduction: Mental health
Health is defined as a state of complete physical, mental social and spiritual well-being and not only the absence of disease or infirmity. So the aspect of mental wellbeing is also equally important. A sound mind in a sound body has been recognized as a social ideal for many centuries. Also one can find, in history and mythological books, Indian sages have gained the highest level of emotional equilibrium by mastering their minds. According to WHO, “Mental health is defined as a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.”
According to Healthy People 2010, published by the U.S. government, mental health is a state of successful mental functioning, resulting in productive activities, fulfilling relationships, and the ability to adapt to change and cope with adversity. This blueprint for good health indicates that mental health is indispensable to well-being, family and interpersonal relationships, and one’s contribution to society. It is also taken as non-communicable diseases.
WHO facts about mental health:
- Around 20% of the world’s children and adolescents have mental disorders or problems.
- Mental and substance use disorders are the leading cause of disability worldwide.
- About 800000 people commit suicide every year.
- Globally, there is a huge inequity in the distribution of skilled human resources for mental health.
- Stigma and discrimination against patients and families prevent people from seeking mental health care.
- Mental disorders are important risk factors for other diseases, as well as unintentional and intentional injury.
- War and disasters have a large impact on mental health and psychosocial well-being
Different Mental Illnesses and conditions
- Anorexia nervosa
- Anxiety
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Binge eating
- Bipolar disorder
- Bulimia
- Depression
- Eating disorders
- Gender dysphoria
- Insomnia
- Mental health problems after the birth
- Munchausen’s Syndrome
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Panic disorder
- Personality disorder
- Phobias
- Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Postnatal depression
- Psychosis
- Schizophrenia
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
- Self-harm
- Suicide
References
- WHO FACT FILE
- HEALTHY PEOPLE
- https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mental-health
- https://www.who.int/features/factfiles/mental_health/mental_health_facts/en/index9.html