According to Malaysia’s National Health and Morbidity Survey, people between the ages of 16 and 19 are most likely to experience mental health issues (18.3% have depression and 10% have suicide thoughts).
Mental health is about how we feel, think, and act. It affects how we handle stress, interact with others, and make decisions. Just like physical health, everyone has mental health, and it is important to take care of it. Good mental health helps us live our lives fully and make good choices. When mental health struggles arise, it can be as tough as dealing with a physical illness. Common issues like stress, anxiety, and depression affect many people, including students.
Feeling mentally unwell can be confusing and frightening. Sometimes, people worry that struggling with mental health means they are weak or “losing their mind,” but that’s not true. Media often portrays mental health issues in a negative light, which can make it harder to seek help. Mental health problems are common, and many people experience them. It is important to talk about your feelings and seek support. With the right combination of self-care, treatment, and support, you can get better. Taking care of your mental health is essential for your overall well-being and success as a student.
The Impact of Mental Health on Daily Life
Students experiencing emotional challenges often show noticeable changes in their sociability and interest in forming new friendships. They may withdraw and become reluctant to engage in social activities, which can be observed by those around them. A key sign of emotional difficulties is a shift in their relationships with peers and family. Such issues can affect a student’s personality and enthusiasm. They might appear less energetic, less excited about school, and avoid extracurricular activities and social events. These students may struggle with new experiences and challenges, leading to increased reclusiveness and reduced participation in academic and social activities. Students dealing with emotional struggles might also find it hard to focus in class. They may be distracted by their challenges or other life issues, affecting their ability to engage in class, understand subjects, or stay attentive. Teachers may notice a decline in performance or signs of distraction.
Recognizing Types and Symptoms
Depression is more than just feeling sad or experiencing mood swings. It involves a persistent feeling of sadness, irritability, or loss of interest in activities for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. Symptoms may include difficulty concentrating, excessive guilt, low self-esteem, hopelessness, thoughts of death or suicide, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite or weight, and extreme fatigue. Effective treatments are available, despite the higher risk of suicide associated with depression.
Anxiety disorders involve excessive worry and fear, causing significant distress and functional impairment. These disorders include separation anxiety, generalized anxiety, and panic disorder, each with unique symptoms such as fear of being away from loved ones, constant worry, and panic attacks. Effective therapies and, sometimes, medication can help.
Eating disorders like anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa involve unusual eating patterns, obsession with food, and significant body image concerns. These disorders can lead to severe health problems, distress, or functional impairment. Anorexia nervosa often appears during adolescence and can lead to early death, while bulimia nervosa increases the risk of substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, and medical issues. Effective treatments include cognitive-based therapy and family-based approaches.
Strategies for Maintaining Emotional Well-being
Talking therapies offer a regular opportunity to discuss thoughts and feelings with a qualified professional, which can help in developing better daily routines, strengthening relationships, and dealing with difficult memories or events. Medication can correct chemical imbalances in the brain and alleviate symptoms. Psychotherapy helps individuals understand their condition and manage its impact on their lives. Rehabilitation and therapy can also enhance social skills and independent living abilities. For severe, persistent, or treatment-resistant emotional issues, one can seek professional help from specialized services. More information is available at MMHA.
Conclusion
Mental health significantly impacts students’ daily lives, influencing their social behavior, personality, and academic performance. Recognizing the warning signs and understanding the different types and symptoms of mental health issues like depression, anxiety disorders, and eating disorders is crucial. With effective strategies such as talking therapies, medication, and specialized support, students can manage their mental health challenges and lead fulfilling lives. It’s important to remember that mental health issues are treatable, and people can recover and improve their quality of life. Encouraging open discussions about mental health and providing timely support can make a positive difference in students’ well-being and academic success.
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