Introduction to Anthropology, Psychology, Sociology HSP3C What is Mental Health? Introduction to Anthropology, Psychology, Sociology HSP3C

Meaning of Mental Health Definitions of mental health are changing. It used to be that a person was considered to have good mental health simply if they showed no signs or symptoms of a mental illness. But in recent years, there has been a shift towards a more holistic (mind and body) approach to mental health Just because you can’t see it doesn’t mean it’s not there Video: What you see/what you don’t see

Understanding Mental Illness Mental illnesses can take many forms, just as physical illnesses do. Mental illnesses are still feared and misunderstood by many people, but the fear will disappear as people learn more about them. If you, or someone you know, has a mental illness, there is good news: all mental illnesses can be treated.

Your Mental Health Mental health means striking a balance in all aspects of your life: social, physical, spiritual, economic and mental. Reaching a balance is a learning process. At times, you may tip the balance too much in one direction and have to find your footing again. Your personal balance will be unique, and your challenge will be to stay mentally healthy by keeping that balance.

What is Mental Illness? Mental health issues affect Canadians of all ages, genders, cultures, educational and income levels. In some cultures, mental health and illness is not discussed Why? The economic (money) and societal impact of mental illness touches everyone in our country, sparing no one.

Official Definitions The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) describes mental illness as, “…characterized by alterations in thinking, mood or behaviour (or a combination), and impaired functioning over an extended period of time. The symptoms vary from mild to severe depending on the type, the individual, the family and socio- economic environment”

Mental Illness Affects Everyone! Studies indicate that in any given year, 1 in 5 Canadian adults under 65 will have a mental health problem. It is estimated that every Canadian will be indirectly affected because a friend, family member or colleague suffers from a mental health issue. Many illnesses first develop in adolescence or young adulthood, affecting people at a time in their lives when they are establishing important relationships, self-confidence and educational or career paths. This can have a devastating effect on young people and their families if left unrecognized and untreated

What Causes Mental Illness? Ongoing research points to a complex combination of genetics, biology, physical and social environments as the main contributors to mental illness. There is no simple answer but we can say that the brain and the body interact in ways that produce the symptoms. Lifestyle, family environment, economic status, substance abuse, stress levels and trauma can play a role in the onset, or relapse of symptoms.

What is the Economic Cost of Mental Illness on the Canadian Economy? At least $7.9 billion in 1998 – $4.7 billion in care, and $3.2 billion in disability and early death. An additional $6.3 billion spent on uninsured mental health services and time off work for depression and distress that was not treated by the health care system. In 1999, 3.8% of all admissions in general hospitals (1.5 million hospital days) were due to anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, major depression, personality disorders, eating disorders and suicidal behavior. (Sources: The Report on Mental Illness in Canada, October 2002. EBIC 1998 (Health Canada 2002), Stephens et al., 2001)

Case Studies In groups, you will read an article related to Mental Illness. Each group will receive a piece of chart paper. Each person in the group will be assigned a task. Tasks include: 1 person to read the article aloud to the group 1 person will take notes 1 person will summarize the article on the chart paper (point form) 1 person will share the information with the class 1 person will write down thoughts/feelings about the article, opinions on the article, justifications of those opinions, and suggestions about the outcome when necessary.

Article 1: “Exposing Canada’s Ugly Mental Health Secret”- Globe & Mail Article 2: “5 Major Mental Illnesses Traced to same Genetic Variation”- Psych Central Article 3: “Mental Healthcare needed by 1 in 6 Canadians”- CBC News Article 4: “Freedom to be sick leaves families feeling chained”- Globe & Mail Article 5: “Stigma surrounding mental illness major barrier for employment: report”- CTV News