Yes, There Is a Big Difference Between Mental Health and Mental Illness
“When you have cough or cold you say you are sick and not have some physical illness”
Because the two are used interchangeably, warning signs are often overlooked
Mental health and mental illness are not the same thing.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), mental illness refers to “conditions that affect a person’s thinking, feeling, mood, or behavior.” These can include but aren’t limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia.
Mental health reflects “our emotional, psychological, and social well-being.” Affecting “how we think, feel, and act,” mental health has a strong impact on the way we interact with others, handle problems, and make decisions.
The Difference Between Mental Health and Mental Illness
Example of Mental Health: Sarah generally feels happy, balanced, and connected to her community. She practices mindfulness and regular physical activity, which helps her manage daily stress effectively.
Example of Mental Illness: Mark has been diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder. He often feels excessively worried about various aspects of his life, such as work and relationships, leading to physical symptoms like a racing heart and trouble sleeping.
The Negative Impact of Not Understanding the Basics About Mental Health
This misunderstanding can be problematic, leading us to sometimes overlook signs that someone needs help. Many individuals with poor mental health have not been formally diagnosed with a mental illness.
Example: A college student, feels constant pressure and starts skipping classes due to anxiety and stress. Her friends and family think she’s just going through a “phase” and don’t encourage her to seek help. As a result, her anxiety worsens, leading to panic attacks and a significant drop in academic performance.
Also, many people who do have a diagnosed mental illness “can experience periods of physical, mental, and social well-being.”
Example: One who has bipolar disorder, can be highly productive and creative during stable periods, though he faces significant challenges during mood episodes.
Moreover, people with psychiatric conditions can change over time, or their issues can be triggered by events and circumstances, both large and small.
Deconstructing Stigma
A lack of understanding or a mischaracterization of a mental health problem can discourage people from getting needed treatment. Moreover, blurring the lines between health and disease can cause people to misjudge, dismiss, or even stigmatize those who have a mental illness.
Health Literacy Is Incredibly Important Yet Uncommon
Despite the global rates of mental illness, many still don’t understand what mental illness or mental health means. For example, a 2015 study of working-age adults in the United Kingdom found that about 61% of respondents had a poor understanding of mental health conditions, symptoms, and treatments.
This lack of “health literacy,” the study said, could have a negative impact on the ability of those in need to get help and make informed decisions about managing their conditions.
Based on studies like this, health experts have led efforts to boost mental health literacy and increase awareness and understanding of mental illness.
Increasing Understanding and Promoting Mental Wellness
Poor mental health literacy also contributes to the problem of mental health stigma. Those who do not understand mental health or mental illness often hold negative and harmful attitudes toward those with psychiatric issues. These attitudes lead to shame, anger, and feelings of worthlessness.
In many cases, social stigma prevents individuals from seeking professional help.
“Self-stigma” can affect individuals who have mental health issues but do not fully understand the concepts of mental health and mental illness. They may blame themselves for their conditions. Self-stigma can make conditions worse.
“The thing with all mental health disorders,” Palmer says, “is that none of them define the entire person. Although their symptoms might impair their ability to do things others are able to do, they still have areas of strength and competence. Whenever we talk about health versus illness, it’s always important to remember this.”
Attitudes About Mental Illness and Mental Health
A CBS News poll conducted in the fall of 2019 detailed American attitudes and awareness of mental health issues. Almost 90% of respondents said there is some stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness in our society.
More than 30% stated that discrimination and stigma associated with mental illness have decreased over the past ten years. However, about 30% said that the situation remains unchanged.
Most of the poll respondents said they had some understanding of conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Many said that they know someone who had been diagnosed with a psychiatric condition.
The poll found that most Americans considered mental illness a serious issue. India is yet to.
More Education, Better Understanding
These findings point to some improvement in understanding and attitudes about mental health and mental issues. But more needs to be done.
Efforts like campaign have done much to bring understanding to the public.
Example: The “Deconstructing Stigma” campaign shares personal stories of individuals with mental illness, helping to humanize these conditions and educate the public. For instance, a story about a teacher with depression shows that mental illness can affect anyone, breaking down stereotypes and misconceptions.
More and more individuals are choosing to be open about their own mental illness. By speaking out, they show that psychiatric conditions like depression and addiction are common and no different than medical conditions like diabetes or asthma.
At the same time, many efforts to promote good mental health have been introduced.
Just as individuals are encouraged to exercise, improve their eating habits, and see a doctor when they are sick or injured, these programs teach mindfulness, stress reduction techniques, and gratitude.
Example: A workplace offers Yoga, mindfulness and stress reduction workshops to help employees manage stress. Participants learn techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and positive visualization, improving their overall mental health.
Just as you would address a physical ailment like a cough or cold, it’s equally important to take care of your mental health. When you have a cold, you don’t feel bad about treating it, looking into it, or talking about it. You seek remedies, rest, and possibly medical advice because you understand that your health matters. The same approach should be taken for mental health.
Example: Physical Health Care
- Cough or Cold: When you catch a cold, you likely rest, drink fluids, and perhaps take medication. You talk about it openly and seek advice or care without feeling ashamed. You understand that taking these steps is essential for your recovery.
Example: Mental Health Care
- Stress and Irritability: If you notice that you’re getting irritated over small issues or feeling unusually stressed, it’s important to address these signs. You might talk to a friend or a professional, practice stress-relief techniques, or take steps to reduce your workload. Ignoring these signs can lead to more serious problems.
- Depression Due to Life Situations: Experiencing depression due to life events, such as a breakup or job loss, requires attention. Just like you wouldn’t ignore a persistent cough, you shouldn’t ignore persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or fatigue. Seeking help from a mental health professional, talking to loved ones, and practicing self-care are crucial steps.
Mental Health and Physical Health Parallels
Both physical and mental health require care and attention. When we overlook mental health issues, we risk them escalating into more severe conditions, just as untreated physical ailments can worsen.
Example:
- Physical: Ignoring a persistent cough could lead to a more serious respiratory infection.
- Mental: Ignoring signs of depression can lead to severe depression or other mental health issues.
Normalizing Mental Health Care
Talking about mental health openly and seeking help should be normalized just like addressing physical health issues. Mental health conditions are common and manageable, much like physical illnesses.
Example:
- Physical Health: You don’t feel bad about taking a day off work if you have the flu.
- Mental Health: Similarly, taking a mental health day when you’re overwhelmed or seeking therapy should be seen as a normal and necessary step for well-being.
In both cases, understanding and addressing health concerns promptly leads to better outcomes. Treating mental health with the same level of care and urgency as physical health helps reduce stigma and promotes overall well-being.
In conclusion, it’s essential to recognize that mental health is just as important as physical health. Stress, irritability, and depression need the same care and attention as a cough or cold. By addressing these issues openly and promptly, we can maintain better overall health and support those around us in doing the same.