18 - 24 October 2001
Issue No.556
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Al-Ahram Weekly Online 18 - 24 October 2001 Issue No.556 |
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What cannot be ignored
Ahmad Mohit* looks at the baby steps society has made in coming to terms with mental illness -- and the distance we have yet to travel
Mental health is that aspect of health that deals with the human faculties of thinking, emotions and manners and behaviour. The World Health Organisation (WHO) does not define good health as simply the lack of disease or abnormalities because health is not only a matter physical fitness. Mental, physical and social well-being are the three pillars of good health.
General attitudes towards mental health have been changing since the mid-20th century, thanks to the confluence of many factors. Scientific and technological advancements have allowed a better understanding of the functioning of the human mind and brain with regard to health and disease. In addition, socio-economic realities and the complexities of everyday life have added to the burden of mental health conditions and necessitate deeper attention to the mental aspects of life. The introduction of a more accurate and holistic definition of mental health, along with new scientific discoveries regarding the causes of mental illnesses and their treatments, have been important. One crucial step recent advancements have made possible is the possibility of returning a considerable number of mental illness patients once confined to hospitals and asylums to their homes and reintroducing them into the community.
With a new understanding comes new opportunities and possibilities. It also brings problems and constraints. On the positive side, general awareness regarding the issues of mental health has increased. Almost all societies, however, continue to stigmatise mental illness and marginalise its significance. Media, literature, films and theatre all conspire at times to increase this stigma. Even our medical community can sometimes contribute to the problem. There are a number of myths that further this stigma and all of them are wrong. Among them are the claims that mental illnesses are untreatable, or simply a "luxury" problem, not constituting a group with high priority. Other falsehoods perpetuate the idea that mental illness patients are "dangerous" or are incapable of performing any useful social role. Some people claim that all mental illnesses have metaphysical causes.
Though the general public, as well as decision-makers and health professionals are more aware of the importance of mental health; this awareness is not nearly enough. More informed awareness has undoubtedly brought about a new understanding of the rights those afflicted with mental illnesses are entitled to. This has pushed countries towards thinking of better, more humane and more affordable services for people with poor mental health. However, the services for these patients are still far from ideal.
People suffering from more serious forms of mental illness receive either no care or are confined to large, run-down mental hospitals. The movement to return them to the community is still too young. Meanwhile, thousands of people suffer from more common and milder emotional illness, like depression, but receive no treatment. The lack of human resources and poor attention to mental health in general health settings are the main reasons.
Mental health is not limited to the issue of mental illness. A sustained sense of harmony, serenity and self-assurance, along with an active social role, is equally significant for strong mental health. Raising responsible children to become capable, productive, caring and self- reliant adults is positive. Teaching these children the skills that will help them survive under different and stressful events is equally important.
Parenthood needs special skills. The existence of programmes that make future parents ready to assume the great responsibilities before them can be crucial in the prevention of poor mental health. We also need to pay attention to our schools. Teachers and peers are important players in the promotion of good mental health, as are the moral and spiritual leaders who help shape and strengthen people's personalities.
Another important area related to mental health is the issue of substance abuse. None of the countries of our region is immune to this menace and in many places, it shows no signs of decreasing. To the contrary, all indications point to the fact that substance abuse is on the rise in the region. A new tendency towards drug-use through injection compounds the health risks. Sharing needles is directly associated with the transmission of a number of diseases, including HIV/AIDS. Addiction is a symptom of affliction and we need to summon all our wisdom, planning and insight to address the issues that are endangering our greatest asset: our youth.
Let me conclude with two mottoes chosen globally and in our Region to celebrate the year 2001 -- the year selected as the year of mental health by WHO:
Stop exclusion -- dare to care
Today's mental health is today and tomorrow's health
* The author is the regional adviser for mental health at the WHO Eastern Mediterranean regional office.
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