Understanding Mental Health Problems

Health, as defined by the World Health Organization, is an “uneven state of health” that can be characterized by an ability to enjoy a full range of your life activities without the threat of infection, disease or death. Various definitions have been used over the years for various purposes. In the United States, “health” means the condition of being able to get medical attention when needed without delay or restriction. In Canada, “medical treatment” means services received from a health care professional or other approved source in cases of emergency. In other words, health is not defined by health insurance.

Health is important because it affects your quality of life. The quality of life generally is determined by the extent of your capacity to carry out your day-to-day activities, including your ability to work, maintain stable relationships, manage your resources, and cope with changes. A good percentage of the general population has some level of difficulty maintaining health and coping with change. People who experience ongoing emotional stress, high levels of stress hormones, and/or major life transitions are particularly vulnerable to developing illnesses and diseases. According to the Canadian Family Therapy Association, people in the general population who suffer from illness or disability that results in significant pain, disability or limitation have poorer health and life satisfaction than people who do not experience these issues.

Illness and disability can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or background. Illness and disability can also be associated with risk factors. Risk factors include genetics, psychology, environmental factors, medications, diet, and behaviours. There is a difference between what society labels as a disorder and what is considered a normal part of life. For example, there is a difference between having depression and being diagnosed with clinical depression. However, if you are told that you are experiencing a mental health problem, whether it is a symptom of a physical illness or vice versa, and you do not feel comfortable discussing it with other people at your workplace, or with doctors and nurses at the health centre, then you may need to consider speaking to a mental health professional.