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#Thinking - November 18 - 21
Reflection #1:
What are some misconceptions about mental health? Provide some examples.
There are several misconceptions about mental health that contribute to stigma and hinder people from seeking the help they need. Here are some examples:
Mental health problems are a sign of weakness: One of the most common myths is that mental health issues are a result of personal weakness or lack of resilience. This idea is damaging because it ignores the complex biological, psychological, and environmental factors that contribute to mental health conditions. Mental health disorders are medical conditions that require treatment, much like any physical illness.
Only certain people experience mental health issues: Many people believe that mental health problems only affect "others" — those with "unstable" personalities or those in vulnerable situations. In reality, mental health challenges affect people from all walks of life. One in five Canadians will experience mental illness each year, and half of Canadians will have had a mental health issue by the time they reach 40.
Depression is just about being sad: While sadness is a key symptom of depression, it’s much more than that. Depression can involve feelings of hopelessness, lack of energy, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and even physical symptoms such as changes in sleep or appetite. It’s important to recognize that depression is a complex condition that affects the mind and body.
People with mental health problems are dangerous: This stereotype often leads to a misunderstanding of people with mental health challenges. The reality is that people with mental health issues are more likely to be victims of violence than perpetrators. Most people with mental health problems are non-violent and seek to manage their conditions through therapy, medication, or other treatments.
Reflection #2:
Why do you think the pandemic has had a worse effect on children and young adults’ mental health? Provide some examples.
The pandemic has had a disproportionately negative effect on children and young adults, exacerbating mental health issues for several reasons:
Social Isolation: Social distancing, school closures, and lockdowns led to a loss of daily social interactions that are critical for children and young adults’ emotional development. Prolonged isolation can result in loneliness, anxiety, and depression. Many young people rely on in-person friendships to navigate the challenges of adolescence and young adulthood, and the inability to connect face-to-face made their emotional struggles worse.
Educational Disruptions: The shift to online learning disrupted the education system, which was especially difficult for students who thrive in traditional classroom settings. Distance learning led to challenges in engagement, poor academic performance, and a lack of motivation. Young people, particularly those in high school or university, may have faced significant stress about their grades and future prospects.
Uncertainty About the Future: The pandemic created an atmosphere of uncertainty about the future, especially for young people who were already facing challenges related to education, career prospects, and financial stability. This uncertainty led to increased anxiety, depression, and feelings of hopelessness.
Increased Family Stress: Many young people faced additional stress at home due to job losses, financial instability, or illness in the family. These stressors were often compounded by an inability to leave the home or access support networks outside of the family.
Reflection #3:
Why do you think it is challenging to treat mental health issues?
Treating mental health issues is complex and challenging for several reasons:
Stigma and Misunderstanding: Despite progress in mental health awareness, stigma still prevents many individuals from seeking help. Fear of being judged or labeled can make people reluctant to talk about their struggles, seek therapy, or accept medication. The stigma around mental health can be especially strong in some communities or cultures.
Complexity of Mental Health: Mental health issues are influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, past trauma, and personal coping mechanisms. As a result, treatment needs to be tailored to the individual. A solution that works for one person may not be effective for another, which complicates the treatment process.
Access to Resources: Mental health services are often underfunded and inaccessible, particularly in rural or underserved areas. There are long wait times for therapy and limited availability of qualified professionals. Additionally, many people can’t afford private therapy sessions, which leaves them without options.
Co-occurring Disorders: Many individuals with mental health issues also struggle with substance abuse, eating disorders, or other comorbid conditions, which complicates the treatment process. Treating mental health problems in isolation without addressing these co-occurring issues can lead to incomplete or ineffective treatment.
Planning:
Stage 1: Collecting User Information
Key Features:
Welcomes the user and creates a supportive atmosphere.
Collects the user's name and mood using input.
Uses decision statements to provide feedback based on the user's mood.
Stage 2: Providing Mental Health Resources
Key Features:
Shares methods to manage stress and improve mood using a loop.
Provides hotline numbers and online resources for additional support.
Offers tips to create a safe and positive environment.
Stage 3: Interactive Support and Encouragement
Key Features:
Guides the user through a deep breathing exercise using a while loop.
Encourages the user to set a small, achievable goal and provides feedback.
Calculates a mood score and offers tailored advice.
Uses a loop to allow the user to restart the program or exit.
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