Accepting Mental Health Problems: The Challenges

Mental HealthJanuary 9, 2018

Many people suffer from various types of mental health problems. Some of these problems push the patients to seek remedy in the form of alcohol and drugs. Others may be depressed or could be suffering from anxiety and panic attacks. For unknown reasons, most people are reluctant to accept that they have mental health problems and seek appropriate treatment of the appropriate variety.

The acceptance of mental health problems is the process of recognizing and actively dealing with the symptoms and any challenges associated with the condition. Today, we are highlighting some of the common challenges that people face when dealing with mental health problems. This will give people a better sense of recognition and self-care. The barriers could be internal, relational or systemic to their cultures. Nonetheless, they are a hindrance in the acceptance of mental health problems. What are the challenges of accepting mental health concerns?

“Understanding is the first step to acceptance, and only with acceptance can there be recovery.” ― J.K. Rowling

Personal feelings

Accepting one’s suffering due mental health problems at the emotional level is the most challenging part for most people. Difficult feelings get in the way of accepting mental health problems, and these are mostly related to shame and despair. At the same time, feelings of hope, pride, and even fear can motivate the recognition of a mental health problem.

Behavioral problems

Another hindrance to the acceptance of mental health problems lies at the behavioral level. People have a habit of living in denial. This habit makes people skip appointments and social activities that can bring a sense of wellness in them. Scheduling positive activities and committing to them would help them to accept and manage mental health problems.

Thoughts and beliefs

People with mental health problems often have cognitive challenges due to negative behavior and a lack of clarity. Cognitive processes that can promote acceptance include a sense of awareness and self-reflection. Many people have confirmed they were able to accept the problem after understanding how they act normally.

Relationships

Lack of support from people close to the individual who has mental health problems is one of the key reasons why people live in denial. It would be better if people engage in relationships with others who are willing to offer support. They should also recognize they are dealing with a person who has a mental health problem.

Cultural factors

Cultural factors are another reason why people are reluctant to accept mental health problems.Most people view mental health patients as violent or a burden in the society. This prevents the patients from accepting the problem they have. They fail to realize that the resources to overcome this problem are indeed available.

Religious beliefs

Some people with a specific religious or spiritual beliefs may believe that God is punishing them God with mental health problems. They could even believe that the problem can only be cured by spiritual practices, which may be ineffective or even harmful. Rather than continue with this belief, mental health patients should utilize their religious community as a source of inclusion and healing that can be helpful in accepting the problem.

“Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don’t resist them; that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.” ― Lao Tzu

Systemic factors

The challenge of being ostracized at work, at school or in the society is another challenge that keeps people away from accepting mental health problems. This factor can be appropriately addressed by giving people access to adequate results that can be transformative and boost their acceptance of the problem at hand.

These are some of the challenges that people face when dealing with mental health problems. They refrain from acceptance and continuing to suffer without proper treatment.