Going Mental
In this section, we will examine the nature of mental health and identify a range of factors that influence and support a person's mental health. The term mental health is often associated with mental illness. In the past, mental health was not often discussed openly as people can have negative images of, and attitudes towards, people suffering from a mental illness. These attitudes are beginning to change due to the growing number of people affected by mental illness and the development of a broader understanding of mental wellbeing.
Defining Mental Health
Mental health is a condition that affects a person's state of mental health
Mental health refers to a person's feelings about themselves, their sense of self and level of contentment with who they are. A person who is mentally healthy has a positive image of themself, is happy with the person they are and understands and appreciates their strengths and limitations. Your mental health affects your decision making, problem solving, relationships and overall behaviour. Your mental health will be affected by everyday experiences, and therefore will slide along a continuum throughout life.
Cox, S (2005). PDHPE Zone Stage 4. Victoria
Nature of Mental Health Problems
Mental Health Problems can occurs at any time in a person's life. An individual may fully recover following treatment for a major mental health problem. Sometimes the problem occurs again, which will mean the person needs ongoing treatment. Certain medical health problems are more common in young people.
Some health problems include:
- eating disorders
- sadness or depression (which can be caused by many things such as drug use, loss of a loved one)
- anxiety, helplessness, hopelessness (clinical depression)
- bipolar
- schizophrenia
Eating disorders such as annorexia can cause serious mental and physical health issues for an individual
Factors that support mental health
- positive relationships
- supportive environments
- personal skills and abilities
All these factors improve and protect mental health.
Changing perspectives on mental health
Twenty years ago, society viewed mental health as mental illness. People suffering from a mental illness were seen to be 'crazy' or 'insane'.
Society's attitudes and beliefs have change for the better. Education and having direct experiences with those affected by mental illness have helped to bring about this change. People are now more aware that mental health problems can be effectively treated and managed.
Where can i get help?
If you are worried about your mental health be sure to speak to a doctor or a health professional. When you speak to someone, be honest about how you feel as they are there to help you. If you are afraid to see somebody in person, call helplines such as the SANE Helpline on 1800 18 sane (7263) 9-5 weekdays or you can email helpline@sane.org
The following are two small articles highlighting issues of mental health
Anorexia now affecting Australians as young as four
The age of anorexia sufferers in Australia is dropping alarmingly, according to research published yesterday, with doctors saying they are treating nine-year olds for the condition and even, in one case, a child of four.
Anorexia is now the third-biggest health problem for girls under 18 in Australia, and one in 20 women has suffered from it at some point.
The study found that teenage boys were also likely to develop anorexia: one in three cases analysed by the researchers was a boy, although in the population at large males only account for 10% of anorexics
Buzz, C. (2008). Anorexia now affecting Australians as young as four. Guardian news and media
Bipolar Einfeld needs hospital care, court told
In October, the New South Wales Court of Criminal Appeal was presented with a new psychiatric report concluding he had been suffering from a previously undiagnosed bipolar mood disorder.
Psychiatrist Anthony Durell interviewed the 70-year-old at least three times in jail. He told the court today the ex-judge had an elevated mood, rapid speech and grandiose ideas about his altruistic pursuits involving refugees and other groups.
Dr Durrell said people with hypermania, like Einfeld, were prone to careless errors of judgement, recklessness and moves outside the moral code.
Wells, J. (2010). Bipolar Einfeld needs hospital care, court told. ABC News. Australia
Activities
1. Ask yourself:
- what is mental health?
- how does a mentally healthy person act?
- how can our behaviour impact on someone else's mental health?
- how can your behaviour impact on your own mental health?
2. Draw a picture of yourself that reflects how you feel about yourself. Think about your own mental health by exploring the following questions:
- how do you feel about yourself?
- what are your strengths as a person?
- which of your abilities can you improve?
- who and what makes you feel good about being you?
3. Ask yourself:
How could the following places provide you with a supportive environment?
- family
- school
- church
- sporting clubs
- community service groups
Helpful Websites
The following websites will be helpful to increase your knowledge on this area of your PDHPE unit.
The Beyond Blue website is a user-friendly website which allows you to discover extensive information on all types of mental illness. It also provides links for further information and help for those suffering from a mental illness.
The SANE website provides fact sheets on all types of mental illness, and not just the types listed above. It provides information on diagnosis, symptoms and treatment options for mental health.
https://www.health.gov.au/internet/mentalhealth/publishing.nsf/content/home-1
This is a direct link from the Australian Government's Mental Health and Wellbeing site. It provides information on national policies, funding and useful links relating to the issue of mental illness in Australia.