Ongoing project!
Mental Health
Just as important as physical health!
Most people know a lot about health in general but nothing or almost nothing about mental health. However, in modern times and especially in urban lifestyle, mental health problems, even in the “pre-covid” era, are increasing and seem to have reached epidemic proportions. There are many reasons for this, but the main ones have to do with the lack of knowledge about our mental health, with the often incorrect information that we often read on social media, blogs, movies, etc., but also the lack of preventive psychotherapy.
Psychotherapy, contrary to the common perception that it is something we do after “we have a problem”, can work preventively so as to reduce or even eliminate the chances of developing a mental health problem! Psychotherapy can benefit anyone and at any stage of life or problems they are facing.
However, because there are justifiably many misconceptions or even wrong perceptions about mental health, let's put things in order.
What is mental health:
There are many definitions of mental health, but one that I prefer is this:
“Mental health is an integral part of health in general. Without mental health, someone cannot be considered healthy!
Also, without good physical health, someone cannot necessarily be considered mentally healthy.
The absence of mental illness or disorder does not mean that someone has good mental health!
A mentally healthy person is someone who generally feels good in their everyday life (well-being), is functional on an emotional, cognitive, behavioral level, and who can generally manage their problems.”
What are some signs that I or someone I know, may not be in good mental health? (Please note that the following are only indicative and only a mental health professional can officially assess them!)
Most of us understand when something is “not right”. However, there are times when we may not understand it. If you or someone you know exhibits one or more of these, you may need to consult a specialist.
Eating or sleeping more or less than normal (for at least 2 weeks or more)
Withdrawing from others and from their usual activities.
Having reduced or no energy.
Feeling psychologically “numb” or that nothing matters.
Having physical pain that cannot be explained medically.
Feeling hopeless.
Using alcohol or drugs more than before or starting now.
Feeling anxious all the time.
Being angry, often forgetful, unable to concentrate easily, afraid and/or confused.
Arguing with others often.
Changes in mood (up and down) causing problems with others.
Having persistent thoughts that they cannot control.
Thinking about harming themselves and/or others. (In this case, you should definitely seek professional help!)
Having difficulty coping with everyday life. (In this case, it is also necessary to seek professional help)
What you can do:
Start psychotherapy or counseling.
Spend time with people you feel good with.
Exercise!
Spend as much time as possible in nature.
Simplify your life as much as possible.
Do things that please you as long as they are not self-destructive.
Reduce the time you spend on social media and television as much as possible.
What is psychotherapy:
There are even more definitions of what psychotherapy is and this it is no coincidence, as it is a multi-level and multi-faceted process that is extremely rich.
I will start by describing it as a relationship between two or more people, within a specific framework (the psychotherapeutic relationship) through which someone seeks help to improve their life on one or more levels.
It is a relationship in which the parties involved collaborate equally, with common goals where the basic tools are education, (in mental hygiene/self-care, relaxation techniques, etc.) use of techniques, written or other homework, use of techniques during the conversation and mainly the psychotherapeutic alliance itself between psychotherapist and client. If necessary, a clinical psychologist may be able to give you a diagnosis.
Through psychotherapy, a series of issues and problems can be addressed that may have to do with emotions (how we feel), behaviors (what we do or are done to us and how) and thinking (what and how we think and perceive)
Psychotherapy can completely eliminate some problems and/or symptoms or reduce them to some extent. These problems can range from everyday problems to "clinical" problems and of course everything in between.
There are many types of psychotherapy that belong to different schools and depending on the training of each psychotherapist, they are applied accordingly.
Psychotherapy is the only scientifically accepted form of speech therapy that is indicated for treating psychological problems. (Below you will see information about psychiatry)
In order to be able to effectively help with issues of disorders or "mental illness", the psychotherapist must definitely have relevant studies in psychotherapy and/or clinical psychology and not simply have studied psychology or psychiatry. (Below you will get a better idea about this)
"Happiness and a good life are a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination"
Carl Rogers
What can I gain from psychotherapy?
I could write a lot here, but more than I should. I will limit myself to a very brief description of examples.
Psychotherapy can:
1.Relieve and/or heal us of anxiety and agitation
2.Reduce/eliminate sadness, grief, fear, etc.
3.Help us manage problems of any nature, such as relationships, family, work, loss, etc.
4.Change thoughts, perceptions and behaviors that are not good for us
5. Help us evolve and become a better version of ourselves
6. Help us gain greater self-esteem and self-confidence
7. Better understand ourselves, others and life
8. Develop better skills such as communicating with others, listening, organizing, problem solving and many others
9. Teach us how to take better care of yourselves so that we are more empowered and healthy!
10. Identify dysfunctional behaviors and replace them with more functional ones
11. Become more resilient to life's adversities
12. Manage grief better
13. Overcome fear!
14. Appreciate ourselves and ours lives more
15. See alternatives we never could before
16. Get closer to our truths and break down illusions