By Paola Ardiles MHSc.

We all know that mental health issues take an enormous toll on the world’s population, not only in terms of health and economic costs, but in terms of our ability to create safe, healthy and vibrant communities. Promoting resilience, coping skills and supportive environments that result in mental well-being is vital, particularly given the global issues we face, such as the current economic crisis and climate change.

What has become increasingly clear to me through my own challenging experiences is that mental health and substance use issues are both a cause, and a consequence, of health and social inequities. For instance, if you live in poverty you are more likely to experience housing issues. The hopelessness and despair experienced by that life circumstance can lead to major depression. However, in the reverse, you may have a great paying job and comfortable home and experience hopelessness and despair due to lack of social support and relationship problems. This can also lead to a major depression, which may cost you your job and lead you to a situation of poverty and, ultimately, homelessness.

I think that the key to future action is to shift the conversation so that together, as a society, we can increase the demand for mental health and well-being. Why? Because mental health and well-being are an asset. They can help us achieve safer and more inclusive communities, more productive and healthier populations, thriving families, and happy and fulfilled citizens who all have something to contribute.

For full article please see:

http://www.heretohelp.bc.ca/visions/wellness-vol7/personal-reflections-on-shifting-the-conversation-to-mental-well-being