For centuries, mental health disorders have been met with a negative perception around the world. According to the mental health website VeryWell Mind, societies dating back to the Neolithic era have thought of mental illness as something nefarious, like a manifestation of a moral punishment or an evil spirit. These beliefs often led to treatments that relied on brutality instead of seeking understanding.
While these beliefs have fallen away in contemporary times, the United States’ approach to treating mental health has left room for stigmas to continue. The country’s institutional inpatient care model, which was founded in the 19th century, resulted in people being placed in facilities that offered unfortunate living conditions and were underfunded and understaffed. These environments inadvertently created a negative view of mental health itself and those who suffered from various mental health conditions.
There have been several milestone improvements in American mental health treatment. These include sweeping institutional reforms and government policies, such as the National Mental Health Act in 1946, and the formation of advocacy groups like the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (now known as National Alliance on Mental Illness) in 1979. In spite of these improvements, the remnants of how poorly mental health issues were treated in the past still leaves a mark that has not been erased.
An increasing awareness of mental health helps society work toward eliminating its stigmas, but it does much more. For instance, developing a greater understanding of mental illness can allow people to recognize those in their lives who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, or other conditions that affect their mental well-being. This could even include a self-realization of their own mental health conditions.
Additionally, increased awareness could lead to a greater push for mental health advocacy. Organizations such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and events such as Mental Health Awareness Month are instrumental in advocating for a greater understanding of mental health and eradicating mental health stigmas. Continue reading from Wake Forest University
Behavioral & Mental Health Resources: St. Vincent's Center of Westport (Hartford HealthCare)
Pathways Greenwich Mental Health Services (Pathways)
Mental Health Association of Connecticut: Services (MHConn)
Center for Hope of Greenwich: Therapy and Support Groups (Family Centers)
Find In-Person Support: Connecticut (Depression and Bipolar Alliance)
If someone talks about suicide, you should take it seriously. Urge them to get help from their doctor or the emergency room, or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
1.800.273.TALK (8255). It is available 24/7.
