World Mental Health Day: One In Five US Adults Live With A Mental Health Condition

October 10 is World Mental Health Day, a day to help spread awareness and advocate against the social stigma. With one in five adults in the United States living with a mental health condition, a reminder is needed that it’s just as important to take care of your mental health as it is your physical health. 

Dr. Raafat Girgis, clinical director at Moment of Clarity Mental Health Center in California has some tips and important information to share about mental health awareness and health.

Being informed on the importance of mental health is the first step. Spreading awareness to help not only yourself but also others, releasing the stigma, support and advocacy all play a huge role in mental health awareness.

“Be informed by educating yourself. It seems there are a great deal of avenues for gathering information pertaining to mental health, but to be a part of spreading awareness one must have insight and ability to explain the importance of informing society and the continued need for support,” Girgis said. “In your social settings, you may be the only person that brings up the topic, such as your church, clubs or neighborhood/community gatherings and at your place of work.” 

As far as the stigma associated with discussing mental health, Girgis believes that we have come a long way as a modern society in regard to bringing some normalcy to treatments and methods of care for those who suffer from diagnostic symptoms. 

“It seems that more people have become willing to openly participate in activities that involve education, sports, and employment opportunities, but there’s still a stigma surrounding mental health,” he explained. “What we now know is that regardless of the level of functioning a person with a mental health diagnosis can support themselves by becoming gainfully employed. However, even now it seems there is a lack of understanding and therefore a stigma that continues.” 

Focusing on your own mental health can be stressful in itself. With busy lives, lots of expectations, and little time to focus on self-care, it can be tough for some people to really give their mental health the focus it needs to stay healthy.

“Staying focused on routine by keeping medical and clinical appointments and being diligent on taking prescribed medications at the same time day and night are your first defense in taking care of your well-being,” Girgis said.

“What seems to be the best way for any of us as a society to stay vigilant on mental health issues and policies of treatment, is to keep political representatives involved in the continued needs of citizens who struggle. By making mental health awareness an element of public education we will be able to reduce the stigma placed on the topic. Communication and acceptance is solution finding and so very important and necessary to remove any shame or awkwardness toward this population.”

Girgis also shared some tips for staying on top of your own mental health needs.

• Developing a support system (medical mental and social)
• Know your pharmacist by name, never run low or out of your medications
• Eat a proper diet rich in nutrition
• Take your medication as prescribed
• Accept training on life skills and coping skills
• Set attainable goals by being consistent in self-care
• Stay physically active by doing for yourself, walk if just down the street and back

Mental illness and health needs are common, but the stigma behind it has created shame and lack of communication on the topic. Girgis said blame and shame should never be placed on anyone suffering from any mental illness or condition.

“In most cases, it is a birth defect or a chemical imbalance in the brain. It is imperative that we as a society change how we treat people with mental health concerns as a part of our everyday lives,” he said. “Instead of shutting doors of communication and education, open them. There is hope and there is help available.”

Moment of Clarity is a facility in Orange County that provides a wide range of services that addresses most areas of mental health treatment. For more information, visit their website.