Many people have preconceived notions about mental health, which is the root of misjudgments and criticisms on people who are going through issues related to it.
To respond to this, Beyond Small Talk, hosts Peter Kairuz, Sonjia Calit, and psychotherapist and counselor Zenia Lim Panahon discusses mental health and what to watch out for to prevent having issues with it especially now as we battle against COVID-19.
Mental health and mental illness are two different things.
Mental health refers to how you feel, behave, and think as a person.
It is 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 the World Health Organization.
“Mental illness, also called mental health disorders, refers to a wide range of mental health conditions — disorders that affect your mood, thinking, and behavior. Examples of mental illness include depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, eating disorders and addictive behaviors,” as defined by Mayo Clinic.
Factors such as the environment you’re raised in, genetics or heredity, social and economic position, and your temperament can affect your mental health that may cause mental illness.
One of the symptoms you should carefully watch out for is when you experience sadness, happiness, or anger in an overwhelming manner lasting for at least 2 weeks. By this time, it is suggested that you seek professional help.
DO NOT, in any way, self-diagnose or let anyone nor the internet do so to you. This is a very dangerous path to take, Zenia explained.
Some of the negative repercussions to this include misdiagnosis, undetected medical condition, and underdiagnosis or overdiagnosis that lead to inaccurate treatment says Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services in their blog entitled The Dangers Of Self-Diagnosis.
The key is to not assume but visit a trained health professional.
Sadly, according to the Department of Health, as cited by Philippine Star in their article DOH: It’s time to talk about, address depression, “In the Philippines, 3.3 million Filipinos suffer from depressive disorders, with suicide rates in 2.5 males and 1.7 females per 100,000.”
That’s why Beyond Small Talk is eager to raise mental health awareness. There is hope for you if you are struggling with it.
We want to pray for you! Let’s lift up to God your worries and fears. You may call now CBN Asia Prayer Center at 8-737-0-700.
Do not miss the next webisode of Beyond Small Talk and join its online discussion on April 4, 2020, 7 pm at The 700 Club Asia Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
