Our minds matter too: Why mental health isn't a luxury

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OPINION

By Brenda Mary Kemigisa

We live in a world that cares about well-being, yet barely appreciates how we perceive and prioritise our health.  We carefully monitor our diet, do exercises to keep our bodies fit and as well as go for regular medical checkups. But when it comes to our minds, the same level of energy often falls by the wayside.  It’s high time to clearly understand that mental health is not a luxury but a fundamental aspect of our overall well-being, just as important as our physical health.

For a long time, the silent stigma has enslaved the struggles of our minds.  We openly discuss a persistent flu or malaria, but depression, anxiety disorder, persistent sadness or overwhelming stress are openly not talked about, if acknowledged at all. This society's perception has led to a dangerous misconception that mental health is an option or something considered only when something becomes unbearable.

This may not be further from the truth; our mental state underpins every facet of our lives. It influences how we think, feel, and behave. It affects our ability to cope with stress, make decisions, and build relationships. Our productivity at work, our ability to cope with every challenge and our quality of life are impacted by our mental state. Just as a physically unwell person struggles to perform daily tasks, an individual grappling with poor mental health faces significant hurdles in navigating life's demands.

Untreated mental health challenges have a far-reaching impact; they can negatively affect individuals, families and communities. Depression can lead to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, and even thoughts of suicide. It can also affect concentration, memory, and decision-making. Anxiety Disorders are characterised by excessive worry, fear, and nervousness, which can interfere with daily activities and relationships. 

Persistent Sadness can lead to long-lasting feelings of sadness and emptiness can contribute to depression and other mental health issues. Overwhelming Stress creates chronic stress, which can lead to burnout, weakened immunity, and increased risk of physical health problems. 

Furthermore, viewing mental health as a luxury disproportionately affects vulnerable populations. Those facing socioeconomic hardships, discrimination, or trauma are often at higher risk of experiencing mental health challenges. To deny them accessible and quality mental healthcare is not only unjust but also perpetuates existing inequalities. Ensuring mental well-being for all is a matter of social justice, not a privilege.

In addition, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), part of the reasons mental health is often ignored is that there is still a lot of stigma surrounding mental illness. For many people, mental illness is seen as a sign of weakness. There’s a belief that if you can’t “just snap out of it,” then there’s something wrong with you.

This couldn’t be further from the truth. Mental illness is a real medical condition that should be treated with the same care and attention as any other illness. Another reason why mental health is often ignored is because it’s not always easy to see. Unlike physical illnesses, which often have visible symptoms, mental illness can be harder to detect.

During this month of mental health awareness, we need to understand that our mental health is as important as our physical health. Let's prioritise our minds the way we nourish our bodies with healthy food, regular exercise and checkups. We must actively nurture our minds through mindfulness, stress management exercises and also seek support when needed.

Mental health is a cornerstone of a thriving and productive life, not a mere trend or personal luxury. It impacts all aspects of life, from personal relationships and well-being to professional success and contributions to society. Good mental health enables individuals to cope with life's challenges, realise their potential, and make meaningful contributions. Let us embrace this truth and work towards a society where caring for our minds is not a luxury, but a fundamental aspect of living well.

The writer works with African Centre for Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture Victims (ACTV)- brendamary.kemigisa@actvuganda.org