Mental health, despite its crucial impact on well-being, is often overlooked, misunderstood, or stigmatized. As someone born and raised in a very conservative culture, I have seen many individuals suffer alone due to the deep-rooted stigma associated with mental health. Even with numerous advancements in medicine and the many ways to improve access to information and healthcare, a significant disparity persists in the realm of mental health. This is a global issue, where countless individuals endure their struggles in silence due to a lack of accessible mental health services and misinformation. It is imperative to understand the importance of improving access and raising awareness about mental health, not only to alleviate individual suffering but also to foster healthier communities and societies.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about one in eight people worldwide lives with a mental health condition. These conditions can range from anxiety, depression, and substance abuse disorders to other mental illnesses, affecting people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. Despite the scale of the issue, access to mental health care remains insufficient, even in developed countries. In low-income countries, approximately 75% of people with mental health disorders do not receive any treatment.
The main reasons for this lack of accessibility include limited healthcare infrastructure, inadequate funding, a shortage of trained mental health professionals, and persistent social stigmas. In many cultures, mental health struggles are considered taboo, preventing individuals from seeking the help they need, often leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. The worst part of this delay is that it can have severe consequences, including worsening symptoms, impaired functioning, and an increased risk of self-harm or suicide.
Why We Need Accessible Mental Health Care
Mental health influences how we think, feel, and act, impacting our ability to cope with stress, make decisions, build relationships, and contribute to society. When access to mental health care is limited or unavailable, individuals often find themselves trapped in a cycle of suffering that affects not only themselves but also their families and communities.
Promoting mental health care access and awareness can have transformative effects on individuals and communities alike. When people receive timely and appropriate mental health care, they are more likely to lead fulfilling lives, achieve their goals, and build stronger relationships. Mental health care can also help individuals return to work or school, improving economic productivity and reducing the economic burden on healthcare systems.
Moreover, accessible mental health care provides individuals with the tools they need to cope with stress and adversity. This improves their ability to engage in positive community interactions and contributes to the overall well-being of their society. Accessible care also helps prevent the development of chronic mental health issues, thereby reducing the need for long-term medical interventions and improving the quality of life for countless individuals.
The Role of Awareness and Education
Raising awareness is key to improving access to mental health care. Public campaigns, education programs, and community discussions can break down the stigma surrounding mental health issues and encourage more people to seek help. Awareness initiatives also educate people on recognizing the early signs of mental health conditions, equipping communities to support individuals in need.
Education is particularly important in schools and workplaces, where stress, anxiety, and burnout are becoming increasingly common. By integrating mental health education into these environments, we can empower young people and workers to take care of their mental well-being and seek help when needed. Supportive environments in educational institutions, workplaces, and communities are crucial for achieving positive mental health outcomes.
The Role of Helplines, Emergency Lines, and Online Mental Health Forums
In addition to increasing awareness, having immediate support systems available can significantly improve mental health outcomes. Helplines, emergency support lines, and online mental health forums provide crucial assistance, particularly for those who might otherwise struggle to access traditional forms of care. These resources serve as lifelines for individuals experiencing crises, offering real-time support, guidance, and referrals.
Helplines play a pivotal role in providing immediate, anonymous support to those in need, reducing the risk of severe consequences such as self-harm or suicide.
I take immense pride in writing about the important role that online forums like By My Side play in improving access to mental health support. Through our listener service, we provide 24/7 emotional support via online text chat, being a helping hand to anyone going through a difficult time. We have improved access to mental health content through our videos, social media posts, and articles. We have created a free, non-judgmental space for internet users around the world.
Online forums and digital platforms also enable people to connect with others who have similar experiences, fostering a sense of community and belonging that can be immensely comforting. In areas where mental health professionals are scarce or stigma is particularly high, these resources can serve as a bridge, offering people a way to access care and support without fear of judgment.
Some online help forums include:
By My Side: https://bymyside.support/therapy/
Mental Health America: Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. You can also reach the Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.
Find a Helpline Near You: https://findahelpline.com/
The need for Global Action
Addressing the mental health crisis requires a global commitment. We must prioritize mental health by increasing funding and integrating mental health services into primary healthcare systems. As a healthcare worker, even though this is not my main specialty, I have volunteered with By My Side and learned to recognize the signs and symptoms of early mental illness, when to start conversations about mental health with my patients, and the many overlaps mental health has with other medical specialties. The insight I gained while volunteering with By My Side has made me a more holistic physician. I believe that with continued global efforts and individual contributions, we can bridge the gaps in care and build a world where mental well-being is prioritized for all.
We Can Start Small
While addressing the global mental health crisis requires systemic change, we can all play a role as individuals in creating a more supportive and caring environment for those around us. Whether it’s within our families, workplaces, or communities, offering help and support to those who may be struggling can make a significant difference. As a coworker, you can create a more empathetic work environment by checking in with colleagues, offering a listening ear, or simply acknowledging when someone may be under stress. In our personal lives, we can be mindful of our family members’ emotional well-being, offering support, encouragement, and resources when needed. Small gestures like asking how someone is feeling, actively listening, or just being present can go a long way in reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and fostering a culture of care. When we show others that they are not alone, we contribute to a ripple effect of compassion that benefits not only individuals but entire communities.
In the journey toward a world where mental health is prioritized, every small action counts. By raising awareness, improving access to care, and fostering compassion in our everyday interactions, we can build a future where no one has to suffer in silence. Together, we can make mental well-being a global priority, one step at a time.
Author: Maleesha Thammitage