It is not a character flaw or a short coming in an individual. It is nothing to do with the person being lazy or weak. In fact, several biological factors often contribute to mental illness. Like any other diseases – diabetes, heart disease, cancer etc… mental illness are usually biologically based disorders and maybe caused by a reaction to environmental stressors, genetic factors, bio-chemical /hormonal imbalances or a combination of them. Trauma or a history of abuse, family history of mental health problems, chronic physical illness etc. are responsible for mental health issues.
The stigma of having mental illness in the family can result in feelings of shame which is out of their control and stops them from seeking help. Perhaps this stigmatisation is because mental illnesses are less perceptible than a physical illness which appears to make it rare in our society. On the contrary it is not. The person who can identify and possess adequate insight will muster the courage to seek professional help.
Thankfully our Nation has made great progress in understanding this stigmatisation associated with mental illness than we did years ago. We have to cover further ground in creating the awareness to have empathy towards those who are still suffering but are shy of seeking help.
Five Warning Signs of worsening mental health
1. Long lasting sadness or irritability
2. Extremely high or low moods
3. Constant, uncontrollable, irrational fear or anxiety
4. Sudden social withdrawal
5. Dramatic changes in eating or sleeping habits