We can create a more inclusive and empathetic society by shifting our perspective to preventive measures, awareness, and positive mental health practices.
The World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10th, is a global event that aims to raise awareness about mental health issues and promote the importance of mental well-being. World Mental Health Day 2023 is an excellent opportunity to celebrate the positive aspects of mental health and encourage practices that can help maintain good mental well-being. Traditionally, discussions surrounding mental health often focus on mental illnesses and disorders, but it is equally vital to celebrate this day through non-illness interventions. We can create a more inclusive and empathetic society by shifting our perspective to preventive measures, awareness, and positive mental health practices. Non-illness interventions encompass a wide range of activities, practices, and strategies that promote mental well-being without necessarily addressing mental illness. These proactive interventions aim to prevent mental health problems and create an environment where individuals can thrive emotionally and psychologically. This is the crux of the research project aimed at developing a mental well-being Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT), a non-illness intervention deployed by following the mental CAT (mw-CAT). A literature review by Oladele et al. (In Press) revealed that other scales exist but are deployed mainly by researchers in developed countries. However, a significant highlight of the mw-CAT is its African context.
A significant issue with the African populace is a high level of secrecy to avoid stigmatisation. However, this results in late discoveries of mental well-being cases only at the casualty stage, adding significantly to the numbers reported by the WHO. Taking cognisance of this, the mw-CAT is deployed online to ensure a confidential space where individuals can honestly and freely assess their well-being within the confines of their homes.
Celebrating World Mental Health Day through non-illness interventions offers several significant benefits such as: Prevention | By focusing on preventive measures, non-illness interventions aim to reduce the incidence of mental health disorders, ultimately reducing the burden on healthcare systems. Empowerment | Non-illness interventions empower individuals to take control of their mental well-being, fostering a sense of autonomy and self-efficacy. Inclusivity | This approach is inclusive as it recognises that mental health concerns everyone, not just those with diagnosed mental illnesses. Reduced Stigma | By emphasising the importance of mental well-being for everyone, non-illness interventions can help reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues.
We can create a more mentally resilient society by raising awareness, teaching stress reduction techniques, promoting physical health, fostering social connections, encouraging self-care, and emphasising positive psychology. Holistic Approach| These interventions promote a holistic approach to health, recognising the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.
Long-term Impact | Non-illness interventions have the potential for long-term impact by instilling positive mental health practices that can benefit individuals throughout their lives.
The non-illness interventions can immensely contribute to a more positive and inclusive conversation about mental health as we celebrate World Mental Health Day. We can create a more mentally resilient society by raising awareness, teaching stress reduction techniques, promoting physical health, fostering social connections, encouraging self-care, and emphasising positive psychology.
Through these efforts, we can prevent mental health issues and build a world where everyone can thrive emotionally and psychologically in line with SDG Goal 3. We must recognise that mental health is a continuum, and by celebrating non-illness interventions, we can contribute to a healthier and happier world for all.
Article submitted by Jumoke Oladele
