Maria Juma.
Mental health has to do with how human beings think, act and feel. It evolves at each stage of life from childhood to adulthood but do we really have enough knowledge of mental health? Society has made us believe anyone with a mental issue is probably mad or cursed but don’t we live in environments where a lot of people are suffering in silence for them not to be profiled? Are we ignorant on matters of mental health yet many people get to the point of committing suicide?
A leading international media house aired a story about a lady suffering from bipolar disorder and everyone around thought she was mad every time she got an attack; her friend on the other hand used to be tied to a tree until he is calm because of little or no knowledge and that is the best way they know how to handle such a case.
Mental health can arise from trauma, genetics, neglect, child abuse, grief, or loneliness. It may be so extreme causing attacks that need medication; to some, it may be mild and manageable. Mental issues include; anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, and depression. The same way we treat diseases like HIV/AIDS and create a lot of awareness even in rural areas is the same way mental health should be treated to do away with many myths and misconceptions.
Mental health awareness can help reduce stigma, raises the opportunity to open up and speak up, identify your own symptoms, learn that it is okay to seek help, and promote mental fitness.
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