2024-10-24 13:31:00
The issue of mental health disorders seems to have invaded the media and social networks in recent years. No wonder: the Covid-19 pandemic has been there, causing psychological problems to explode. But what exactly are we talking about when we talk about “mental health”? What falls into the category of disorders? Who is affected? Let’s take stock.
Built in “great national cause” for the year 2025, mental health is finally emerging from the silence in which it has been immersed for too long, between false representations, various fears or more or less generalized denial.
In fact, mental health disorders today seem (a little) easier to talk about in the public space and in the private sphere, to the point that the increase in requests for consultations is increasingly faced with insufficient supply in this area.
However, the passage of the expression “mental health” into everyday language should encourage us to be vigilant. Indeed, in public speeches – and sometimes even in the expression of certain professionals – confusion is common between mental health, well-being, psychology, psychological disorders, psychiatry, etc.
Let us therefore try to clarify things, first on mental health and then on its alterations.
An epidemic of mental suffering
When it comes to mental health, there will probably be a “before” and an “after” 2020, the year which saw the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The resulting psychological suffering has indeed led professionals to sound the alarm, which has led to the collective awareness that “we all have mental health” to which we must pay attention. According to Google Trends, Internet queries on the topic “mental health” more than doubled between 2020 and 2024…
Today we see that among adolescents and young peoplethe first victims of the wave of anxiety and depression which has been surging for more than four years, talking about psychological problems seems more natural and easier than a few years ago, particularly on social networks.
Some singers, sportsmenor others popular personalities, also seem less reluctant to discuss these difficulties; we can only salute their courage and their role as an example for the entire population.
However, any rapid social and media phenomenon exposes itself to a fashion effect with possible deviations and a risk of misdirection. Already, we are seeing trivializing expressions appear: “this is not good for my mental health”, “my mental health prevents me from doing such and such a thing”, etc.
However, just as the very relevant concept of “mental load” lost part of its initial substance after its passage into everyday language, too broad use of the notion of mental health could also undermine it. To the point of making us forget the essential, that is to say the importance and frequency of suffering and proven pathologies that must be recognized, prevented and combated.
What is mental health called?
The field of mental health is vast and complex, and there is a lot of imprecision in the very definition of the concepts covered by this notion (concepts which have, in fact, numerous points of contact or overlap), as well as in the vocabulary used.
For the World Health Organization, mental health is a “state of well-being that enables people to realize their potential, to cope with the normal difficulties of life, to work successfully and productively, and to be able to make a contribution to the community “.
We might be surprised by this productivist vision, however this definition is of interest: it reminds us that a person’s mental health is inseparable from the context in which they evolve, with its share of inevitable difficulties and obstacles that they must face. face, by mobilizing his psychological resources.
Centering mental health on “well-being” allows, at the same time, to encompass the three essential dimensions of health (physical, psychological and social) and to emphasize the fact that being in good mental health is not strictly synonymous with not having psychological disorders.
You can in fact be free from pathologies and not feel good about your life. Conversely, we can have pathologies and still achieve real well-being, thanks in particular to treatments.
The concept of mental health actually includes two components. On the one hand, the foundations of good psychological balance and well-being (which can be influenced by personal development, positive psychology, social and environmental factors that contribute to feeling good, etc.). On the other hand, disorders that relate to psychopathology, medicine or psychiatry.
These two fields partly overlap. For example, the same people can, at different times or sometimes simultaneously, be affected by difficulties adapting to the vagaries of life and by psychological disorders.
Furthermore, these two dimensions interact with each other: lasting stress and difficult to manage can promote the emergence or worsening of a psychological pathology, while, naturally, an untreated psychological disorder contributes to degrading the quality of life, well-being and even the living environment of the person. person (loss of job, social isolation, etc.).
Ambiguous terminology
This proximity and this interference often lead to confusing these two domains into one, or in any case to maintaining the vagueness of their distinction.
Thus, in official terminology, hospitals specialized in psychiatry are called “Public mental health establishments”, which suggests that they can at the same time take care of the well-being of the population, prevent psychological disorders, treat illnesses in the acute phase, and also taking care of long-term “psychological disability”…
Furthermore, in recent years, the trend has been to display the two components of mental health side by side. The body in charge of these issues, created in 2019 at the Ministry of Health, is entitled “Ministerial delegation for mental health and psychiatry”, which suggests that it is responsible for a very broad field, from normal to pathological, from societal to medical.
Certainly, we can consider that this choice is legitimate, because the needs exist in both fields, and the determinants of good mental health and the fight against psychological disorders are largely the same. However, such an approach is very ambitious, perhaps too ambitious given the immensity of the task.
Of the psychiatric organizations were also alarmed by the fact that the “great cause” concerns “mental health”, insisting on the urgency of dealing first and foremost with psychological disorders and therefore with psychiatry.
A major nuance, because even though we can consider that the entire population is affected by the problem of mental health, not all citizens suffer from psychological or related disorders.
How many people are affected by psychological disorders?
It is essential to clearly define the outline of psychological disorders, in order to try to correctly estimate the number of people affected. To do this, we can describe three large circles.
“Psychosocial ill-being”: this circle covers alterations in well-being in relation to living conditions or trying events: economic, family, health, work, housing, eco-anxiety difficulties, etc. This state of reactive distress or adaptation difficulties manifests itself as psychological discomfort, stress, dissatisfaction, or frequent negative emotions.
However, these are not real psychological disorders: these signs only enter this category from the moment they become severe enough and/or long-lasting enough to constitute symptoms in sufficient number to be qualified as pathology according to medical diagnostic criteria (classification of diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders DSM.5 or diagnostic manual for mental, behavioral, and neurodevelopmental disorders ICD-11).
This discomfort can, however, be an element favoring the appearance of real psychological disorders, probably in people who have, moreover, other risk factors for such disorders.
It is very difficult to estimate the number of people experiencing periods of discomfort of this type, but it is probable that several tens of millions of people in France are affected, over more or less long periods and with varying intensity. .
“Common psychological disorders”: this second circle is easier to define. These are real pathologies, defined by psychiatric diagnostic criteria, of variable severity and duration, but without very severe and permanent repercussions on the person’s life. This category includes most anxiety and phobic disorders, depression and moderate addictions.
THE epidemiological studies show that approximately 20 to 25% of people experience one or more disorders of this type during their life. Over the course of a year, around 10 million people are affected by these diagnoses.
“Severe and persistent psychological disorders”: this third circle includes chronic conditions that are often serious and generate lasting disability if they are not treated. This mainly concerns schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, as well as other pathologies of the same type. In France, around 3 million people are affected.
What are the answers provided?
Severe and persistent disorders require treatment by various medical and social professionals, and in particular by psychiatrists. Most of the patients concerned are followed in public psychiatric services, especially in consultation centers and sometimes in hospitalization.
With regard to common psychological disorders, appropriate care should rather be implemented by general practitioners, associated if possible with psychologists. Occasional recourse to a psychiatrist, for an acute condition or for diagnostic or therapeutic advice, may prove useful. However, it would be illusory to think that the 10 million people concerned could be monitored by psychiatrists, whose number is only around 15,000 in France…
Finally, people experiencing states of psychosocial discomfort, which are not pathologies, can be helped if necessary by associations, social workers, referents in their living or working environment (school nurses, professionals trained, etc.).
The main pitfall in this area is that the manifestations of these conditions can closely resemble those of common psychological disorders requiring treatment. The question of diagnosis and evaluation is therefore crucial, and therefore of access to medical or psychological advice, as well as the training of local health professionals (general practitioners, school or occupational doctors, etc.) .
Better inform the population
It is essential to provide clear and popularized information on psychological disorders to the general population, and in particular to parents, teachers or social workers, so that “citizen” attention can facilitate their identification, at an early stage if possible.
This is, for example, what is proposed in the educational programs for first aid in mental health, supported by the public authorities for several years.
The field of mental health is rich and complex, and should not be simplified and even less overused. Above all, psychological disorders and psychiatry, and their needs must not be modestly hidden, because the public health issues associated with them are major.
To find out more:
– The mental health first aid site offers training to become a “mental health first aid”:
1729842098
#beware #fashion #trivialization
Interview with Dr. Emma Leclerc, Clinical Psychologist and Mental Health Advocate
Date: October 24, 2024
Interviewer: Dr. Leclerc, thank you for joining us today to discuss the increasingly visible issue of mental health. As we navigate the aftermath of the pandemic, mental health has certainly gained prominence in media discourse. Why do you think there’s been a sudden surge in awareness?
Dr. Leclerc: Thank you for having me. The pandemic has indeed acted as a catalyst for discussions around mental health. The isolation, anxiety, and grief experienced during this period heightened the psychological stress for many, prompting people to seek help. It’s a stark reminder that mental health touches every individual, and the growing conversation is a step toward de-stigmatizing these issues.
Interviewer: You touched on a good point about de-stigmatization. However, as public discussions intensify, there’s a risk of trivializing mental health problems. How can we avoid this?
Dr. Leclerc: That’s a crucial concern. As mental health becomes more spoken about, we must differentiate between casual references to “mental health” and actual psychological disorders. It’s important to maintain clarity; statements about stress from daily life shouldn’t equate to clinical disorders. Education is key—understanding the distinction and recognizing true psychological distress will help us advocate for those in need effectively.
Interviewer: Speaking of education, there’s often ambiguity surrounding the term “mental health” itself. How does the World Health Organization define it, and why is this important?
Dr. Leclerc: The WHO defines mental health as a “state of well-being” that enables individuals to realize their potential and cope with life’s challenges. This definition underscores that mental health is not merely the absence of illness. By encapsulating social, psychological, and physical dimensions, we can better understand how interconnected our experiences are.
Interviewer: Many experts suggest that there is a significant gap in treatment availability versus the rising demand for mental health services. What are the current statistics regarding those affected by psychological disorders in France?
Dr. Leclerc: Indeed, the statistics are telling. Approximately 20-25% of individuals will experience common psychological disorders at some point in their lives, while severe disorders affect around 3 million people in France. The surge in consultations post-pandemic has stressed our mental health services, which are already stretched thin. Recognizing this gap is crucial for advocating for more resources.
Interviewer: With the designation of mental health as a “great national cause” for 2025, what steps need to be taken prioritize actual psychological care?
Dr. Leclerc: This designation is a vital acknowledgment, but it must translate into action. We need improved funding for psychological services, enhanced training for healthcare professionals, and public education campaigns to raise awareness. Furthermore, prioritizing access for those with severe psychological disorders would ensure that we’re advocating for the most vulnerable in our society.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Leclerc, for shedding light on these very important issues. What final thoughts would you like to leave our audience with?
Dr. Leclerc: It’s imperative for each of us to recognize that mental health is a vital aspect of our overall well-being. We must be empathetic and supportive towards ourselves and others. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out for help; doing so is a sign of strength. As a society, let’s continue advocating for mental health awareness and better care.
Interviewer: Thank you for those insights, Dr. Leclerc. Your expertise is invaluable as we navigate these important topics.
Al in developing effective public health strategies and ensuring that those who need help can access it promptly.
Interviewer: It seems the resources for mental health care are limited compared to the growing need. What can be done to bridge this gap?
Dr. Leclerc: Addressing the gap requires a multifaceted approach. First, we need to increase funding for mental health services to expand access, particularly in underserved areas. Additionally, training more mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and other specialists, is critical. We should also leverage technology, such as teletherapy and mental health apps, to offer support to individuals who may not have access to traditional therapy. enhancing public awareness through education campaigns will help people recognize when they need help and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health disorders.
Interviewer: With the rise of social media and the online sharing of personal experiences, how can this trend contribute positively or negatively to mental health awareness?
Dr. Leclerc: Social media has the potential to be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it provides a platform for individuals to share their struggles, which can create a sense of community and validation for others facing similar issues. It can also serve as a valuable source of information on mental health. On the other hand, the potential for misinformation, oversimplification of complex mental health issues, and the trivialization of serious disorders can lead to misunderstandings. It’s essential that we foster a culture of responsible sharing—encouraging accuracy, empathy, and respect in discussions around mental health.
Interviewer: As we move towards more integrated approaches to mental health, what role can communities play in supporting individuals facing mental health challenges?
Dr. Leclerc: Communities are integral in providing support structures for individuals facing mental health challenges. Local organizations, schools, and workplaces can create supportive environments that prioritize mental health awareness. Initiatives such as peer support groups, mental health first aid training for non-professionals, and accessible resources can help bridge the gap between those in need and available services. Moreover, encouraging open dialogues can reduce stigma and promote understanding, which is essential for fostering a compassionate community that uplifts its members.
Interviewer: what message would you like to share with those who may be struggling with their mental health?
Dr. Leclerc: It’s important to remember that you are not alone. Many people experience mental health challenges, and reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or professionals. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and prioritizing your well-being is essential. Remember, early intervention is key, and there are resources available to help you navigate through tough times.
