Let's get started!!!!!
This post is about the basics of mental health. Let's start with definitions of the key terms. Overtime we will delve into various specific illnesses.
First of all, let me start by defining what Health means?
The most commonly quoted definition of health is that formalized by the World Health Organization (WHO) over half a century ago; “a complete state of physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”
i.e. the fact you not on the sick bed does not mean you are healthy. Being healthy means all aspects of your body and life are functioning optimally.
So What is Mental health?
WHO also defines Mental health 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.
Easily put, every person understands what he or she is capable of, can deal with the everyday stress of life (traffic, work related issues, family problems etc) and is useful to the society. When one or more of these are not met, then a problem might arise.
What is Mental Illness?
There is no exact definition of mental illness as mental illnesses are very diverse.
Mental illness refers to a wide range of mental health conditions — disorders that affect your mood, thinking and behavior.
When a person develops a mental illness, the person mood, thinking or behavior will be change from what is normal for the person. These changes maybe so slight that it would not be obvious to the next person or it could be so severe that it disrupts not only the life of the person but the family and society as well.
Why Mental health Advocacy?
Mental illnesses are occurring at an increased rate in Nigeria. It is currently the sixth largest burden of illness worldwide. In Nigeria, 1 in 7 people will have a serious mental illness, while 1 in 4 will have some of mental illness.
There is very little done by the government about raising awareness of mental illness. This platform serves to inform the general public about various illnesses, the cause, course and various treatment options available for these illnesses and possible referral hospitals where expert management can be gotten.
picture: google. Definitions: WHO
