Mental health, often stigmatized and misunderstood, has long been marginalized in conversations about overall well-being. Yet, it affects us all, either directly or indirectly. The necessity to prioritize mental health care is indisputable and long overdue.
The World Health Organization reports that nearly one in four people globally will be affected by a mental or neurological disorder at some point in their lives. Moreover, suicide, predominantly driven by untreated mental health conditions, is the second leading cause of death among young people aged 15-29 years. Despite these alarming figures, mental health often takes a back seat, and the resources allocated to it are woefully inadequate.
The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened the critical need for robust mental health services. Isolation, job loss, grief, and fear, among other stressors, have profoundly impacted people’s mental well-being worldwide. Mental health hotlines have reported an unprecedented influx of calls, and mental health professionals have seen a dramatic increase in their caseloads. This surge in demand has put a strain on the system, revealing significant gaps in our mental health infrastructure.
For many individuals, seeking help is a challenging journey fraught with obstacles. The stigma associated with mental illness often acts as a powerful deterrent, preventing many from acknowledging their struggles and seeking help. Additionally, the shortage of mental health professionals and the complexities of insurance coverage often add to the challenges. As a result, many individuals suffer in silence, unable to access the care they need.
A fundamental shift in our approach to mental health is needed. This begins with breaking down the stigma associated with mental illness. We need to foster an understanding that mental health is a vital component of overall well-being and that mental illnesses are real, common, and treatable. Creating a culture of openness, where discussing mental health is as normal as discussing physical health, is paramount.
Moreover, mental health care should be comprehensive and multifaceted. This includes not only therapy but also medication management services when necessary. Organizations such as the Catholic Charities of Fairfield County are leading the way with such initiatives. Through their New Outlook Counseling Services, they offer an inspiring model of comprehensive, compassionate mental health care.
The services cater to individuals of all ages and backgrounds, offering a wide range of services including individual and group therapy, family and couples counseling, and medication management services. In addition to therapy, New Outlook’s psychiatric prescribers are skilled in assessing the need for medication, prescribing it appropriately, and monitoring its effects. This integrated approach ensures a streamlined care experience, reducing the stigma often associated with psychiatric medication.
New Outlook Counseling services are accessible to all, recognizing that mental health issues affect people from all backgrounds and beliefs. We uphold the conviction that everyone merits empathetic, efficacious care. Our commitment reflects our understanding that mental health challenges can affect anyone and emphasizes our dedication to compassionate, effective care.
Recognizing the intersectionality of mental health is also crucial. Factors such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, and trauma exposure significantly influence mental health outcomes. Therefore, our approach to mental health care must be inclusive and equitable, ensuring access to culturally competent care.
Mental health is not a peripheral issue; it’s central to our health and well-being. It’s intrinsically linked with our capacity to lead fulfilling, productive lives. It’s high time we bring mental health out of the shadows and into the forefront of our conversations. The wellbeing of our communities, our loved ones, and ourselves depends on it. For those seeking assistance or looking to learn more about comprehensive mental health care services, resources are available.
New Outlook Counseling, a program of the Catholic Charities of Fairfield County, is one such resource, providing a wide range of mental health services to individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and financial situations, regardless of religious beliefs.
Remember, it’s OK to seek help. Together, we can make mental health a priority and work toward a future where everyone has access to the care they need.
Michael Donoghue is executive director of Catholic Charities of Fairfield County, Inc.
Article originally published on ctpost.com