MENTAL HEALTH -VS -MENTAL ILLNESS 2 DIFFER : JUSBMEE

I want to begin by saying that I have been taking medication for depression and anxiety over the past twelve years.

But in no way do I consider myself to be crazy, a nut case, lunatic, or any other name associated with mental illness.

Simply put…my brain needs assistance in keeping me mentally healthy.

That said…my mental health is a state of well-being where I feel good about myself and my life.

I’ve learned that people who experience good mental wellness typically have a positive outlook on life, feel confident, and behave responsibly.

On the other hand, those with mental illness may not function due to psychological disorders such as depression or anxiety.

This is why I have no problem taking my medication. It will keep me mentally healthy.

Incidentally, mental illnesses can cause those affected by them significant distress, which impedes their ability to live happy lives like everyone else does every day.

In fact, according to Anjel Vahratian, Ph.D., Stephen J. Blumberg, Ph.D., […], and Jeannine S. Schiller, MPH…

Social restrictions, limits on operating nonessential businesses, and other measures to reduce pandemic-related mortality and morbidity can lead to isolation and unemployment or underemployment, further increasing the risk for mental health problems (2)

To rapidly monitor changes in mental health status and access to care during the COVID-19 pandemic, CDC partnered with the U.S. Census Bureau to conduct the Household Pulse Survey (HPS).

This report describes trends in the percentage of adults with symptoms of an anxiety disorder or a depressive disorder and those who sought mental health services.

During August 19, 2020–February 1, 2021, the percentage of adults with symptoms of an anxiety or a depressive disorder during the past 7 days increased significantly (from 36.4% to 41.5%), as did the percentage reporting that they needed but did not receive mental health counseling or therapy during the past 4 weeks (from 9.2% to 11.7%).
Increases were largest among adults aged 18–29 years and among those with less
During August 19–31, 2020, through November 25–December 7, 2020, a significant increase was observed in the percentage of adults who reported taking prescription medication or receiving counseling for their mental health (from 22.4% to 25.0%) (Figure 2).
Similarly, during August 19–31, 2020, through December 9–21, 2020, a significant increase was observed in the percentage of adults who reported needing but not receiving counseling or therapy for their mental health (from 9.2% to 12.4%).
Estimates through January 2021 were similar to those in December 2020.
During August 19–31, 2020, through November 25–December 7, 2020, a significant increase was observed in the percentage of adults who reported taking prescription medication or receiving counseling for their mental health (from 22.4% to 25.0%) (Figure 2).
During August 19–31, 2020, through December 9–21, 2020, a significant increase was observed in the percentage of adults who reported needing but not receiving counseling or therapy for their mental health (from 9.2% to 12.4%).
Estimates through January 2021 were similar to those in December 2020.

Mental health and mental illness are two terms that get thrown around

Mental health and mental illness are two words that are often used interchangeably, but what is the difference between them? I’m sure you have heard the phrase, “I need to go see someone about my mental health.”

I hope this article has helped understand the difference between mental health and mental illness so you can be better informed about how to support those around you who may need your help. You deserve it too!

Mental health deserves just as much attention and care as physical health.

It’s essential to understand the difference between mental illnesses, which are treatable diseases that can be passed down in families;

or acquired over time, and mental health problems that have no known cause but may affect someone at any age.

The NIH has a great article about this topic with more details on ways you can help yourself or others who might need it. (See the link below)

In conclusion…Please follow me for more information on being mental healthy as I explore how we all have the power to improve our minds and body by taking small steps every day!

Thank You For Reading!