Beyond the Physical: The Critical Need for Mental Health Awareness | Discussion authentic english

lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089 THUONGMAI UNIVERSITY FACULTY OF ENGLISH ----- ----- DISCUSSION AUTHENTIC ENGLISH
TOPIC: Beyond the Physical: The Critical Need for Mental Health Awareness Lecturer
: Dao Phuong Linh Group : 07 Class
: 251_ENPR6111_ 04 Ha Noi, 2025 lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089
MEMBERS EVALUATION TABLE No ID Name Tasks Evaluation Nguyễn Minh 1 22D170204 Introduction A Quân Phan Thị Thu 2 22D170048 Chapter II A Giang Đỗ Trung Hiếu 3 22D170067 Chapter III A (Group’s leader) Nguyễn Trần 4 22D170221 Chapter IV A Phương Thảo 5 21D170024 Trần Anh Minh Chapter V A Chapter VI + 6 22D170200 Vũ Mai Phương A Conclusion i lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089 TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. Introduction ................................................................................................................ 3
1.1. Definition ................................................................................................... 3
1.2. Reality ....................................................................................................... 3
1.2.1. Limited Understanding and Social Stigma ......................................... 3
1.2.2. Lack of Access and Institutional Support ........................................... 4
1.2.3. Unequal Priority Compared to Physical Health .................................. 4
1.3. Consequences of Poor Mental Health Awareness ...................................... 5
1.3.1. Personal and Emotional Consequences ............................................. 5
1.3.2. Academic and Workplace Consequences ............................................ 5
1.3.3. Social and Cultural Consequences ..................................................... 5
II. Mental Health’s Role in Individual Well-Being .................................................... 6
2.1. How Mental Health Shapes Us .................................................................. 6
2.1.1. Emotional Stability and Self-Control ................................................. 6
2.1.3. Resilience and Personal Growth ........................................................ 7
2.2. The Real-Life Effects of Mental Health .................................................... 7
2.2.1. Impact on Daily Functioning ............................................................. 7
2.2.2. Connection Between Mind and Body ................................................. 8
2.3. Building Awareness and Support .............................................................. 8
2.3.1. Encouraging Help-Seeking Behavior ................................................. 8
2.3.2. Breaking the Silence .......................................................................... 9
2.3.3. Improving Quality of Life .................................................................. 9
2.4. Physical vs. Mental Health: A Fair Comparison ....................................... 9
2.4.1. The Physical Health Priority Perspective ........................................... 9
2.4.2. Rebuttal: Equal Importance of Mind and Body ................................ 10
III. Mental Health’s Impact on Societal Progress..................................................1
3.1. Economic Productivity and the Workforce...............................................1
3.2. Human Capital and Educational Attainment............................................1
3.3. Innovation, Creativity, and Cultural Vitality............................................2
3.4. Physical Health and Healthcare Systems...................................................2
3.5. Social Cohesion and Civic Engagement.....................................................3
IV. Breaking Stigma Through Awareness.............................................................4
4.1. What Is Mental Health Stigma?................................................................4
4.2. Where Does It Come From?......................................................................4
4.3. How Does Mental Health Stigma Affect People?.......................................5
4.4. Why Is Spreading Awareness Key to Breaking the Stigma?.....................6
V. Expanding access to care through advocacy.....................................................8
5.1. Concept of Mental Health Advocacy.........................................................8
5.2. The importance of mental health advocacy...............................................8 1 lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089
5.2.1. Effects on public health......................................................................8
5.2.2. Impact on policies and education........................................................9
VI. Strategies for Raising Mental Health Awareness...........................................10
6.1. Strategies for improving Mental health awareness..................................10
6.2. Campaigns on raising mental health awareness......................................12
6.2.1 Maybelline: Brave Together..............................................................12
6.2.3. McDonald’s: The Meal.....................................................................13
VII. Conclusion....................................................................................................14
References............................................................................................................15 2 lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089 I. Introduction I.1. Definition
Mental health can be broadly defined as the psychological, emotional, and social
wellbeing of an individual. According to the World Health Organization (WHO,
2022), mental health is a state of well-being in which every person realizes their own
potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully,
and is able to contribute to their community. This definition emphasizes that mental
health is not simply the absence of mental illness, but rather a positive state of balance
that allows individuals to think clearly, manage emotions effectively, build strong
relationships, and make sound decisions. It also involves a sense of purpose, self-
acceptance, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
Mental health plays an equally vital role as physical health in determining overall well-
being and life quality. Just as physical illness can weaken the body, poor mental health
affects emotions, thinking, and behavior, often leading to stress, anxiety, or depression.
These issues can reduce productivity, harm relationships, and even cause physical
symptoms such as fatigue or chronic pain.
According to the WHO, there is no health without mental health, emphasizing that
psychological balance is fundamental to human functioning. Moreover, people with
untreated mental disorders face a higher risk of physical diseases like heart problems
and weakened immunity. Recognizing this deep connection proves that mental health
should not be treated as secondary but as an essential component of overall health. Equal
attention to both aspects enables individuals to perform better, maintain healthy
lifestyles, and contribute more effectively to society. I.2. Reality
1.2.1. Limited Understanding and Social Stigma
Although mental health has gained more public attention in recent years, genuine
awareness remains limited. Many people still hold misconceptions about mental
disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. In numerous cultures, mental
health struggles are often perceived as signs of weakness or poor self-control rather than
legitimate medical conditions. 3 lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089
Cultural attitudes toward mental health often reinforce silence and shame. In many Asian
societies, emotional distress is seen as a personal weakness rather than a health concern.
People suffering from mental disorders are sometimes labeled as lazy or attention-
seeking. This stigma is especially strong among students and employees who fear being
judged or discriminated against if they admit to having mental health issues.
Consequently, many choose to endure their struggles in isolation instead of consulting
professionals or confiding in others.
For instance, in many Asian countries, including Vietnam, individuals experiencing
stress or emotional problems are commonly advised to “think positively” instead of
being guided to seek professional help. This social stigma makes people reluctant to talk
about their feelings or pursue therapy, leading to untreated conditions and worsening mental distress.
1.2.2. Lack of Access and Institutional Support
Another critical issue is the lack of access to mental health services. According to the
World Health Organization (2023), nearly one in eight people worldwide suffers from a
mental disorder, yet over 70% receive little or no treatment. In developing countries,
there are often too few trained psychologists and psychiatrists to meet the demand. The
lack of mental health education and resources within schools, workplaces, and
healthcare systems further deepens the problem. Most educational institutions
emphasize academic achievement but rarely teach students how to manage stress, build
resilience, or seek counseling. Similarly, healthcare systems in many developing
countries prioritize physical diseases, leaving mental health services underfunded and
understaffed. Without sufficient awareness campaigns, professional training, and
accessible care, the gap between mental and physical health continues to widen. As a
result, individuals are left to manage their conditions alone, which can lead to serious
consequences such as substance abuse, academic failure, or even suicide.
1.2.3. Unequal Priority Compared to Physical Health
Mental health also receives far less attention and funding than physical health.
Governments and organizations often invest heavily in campaigns for diseases like
cancer, heart disease, or COVID-19, while mental illnesses remain under-discussed and 4 lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089
underfunded. Media coverage tends to portray mental disorders negatively, reinforcing
stereotypes instead of promoting understanding.
This imbalance shows that society still views mental health as secondary, despite
growing evidence of its impact on productivity, education, and overall quality of life. I.3.
Consequences of Poor Mental Health Awareness
1.3.1. Personal and Emotional Consequences
Lack of mental health awareness can cause individuals to ignore early warning signs of
stress, anxiety, or depression. When left untreated, these conditions often worsen over
time, leading to emotional instability, low self-esteem, and reduced motivation. Many
people try to suppress their emotions instead of seeking help, which can result in
burnout, sleep problems, or substance abuse. In extreme cases, prolonged mental
distress may even lead to self-harm or suicide.
The World Health Organization (2023) reports that over 700,000 people die by suicide
every year, often due to unrecognized or untreated mental disorders.
1.3.2. Academic and Workplace Consequences
Poor mental health awareness also affects performance in schools and workplaces.
Students who struggle with anxiety or depression often have difficulty concentrating,
leading to lower grades and higher dropout rates. Similarly, employees experiencing
emotional exhaustion may lose productivity, make frequent mistakes, or withdraw from teamwork.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) estimates that depression and anxiety cost
the global economy over one trillion USD each year in lost productivity. This
demonstrates how mental health neglect not only affects individuals but also weakens
overall social and economic development.
1.3.3. Social and Cultural Consequences
At the societal level, the stigma surrounding mental illness creates discrimination and
social isolation. People who admit to having mental health problems may be judged as
unstable or unreliable, which limits their opportunities for education, employment, or 5 lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089
relationships. This lack of inclusion fosters inequality and discourages open dialogue about mental well-being.
Moreover, when governments and institutions fail to prioritize mental health policies,
the cycle of misunderstanding and neglect continues, leaving future generations with the same misconceptions.
II. Mental Health’s Role in Individual Well-Being
Human well-being is a delicate balance between the body and the mind. While physical
health enables people to function, mental health determines how they perceive,
experience, and respond to the world around them. A sound mind nurtures emotional
resilience, clarity, and motivation—qualities essential for pursuing goals and
maintaining relationships. Conversely, psychological distress can undermine even the
strongest body, leading to loss of purpose and satisfaction. For this reason, mental health
stands not as a secondary concern but as an equal pillar of personal well-being.
2.1. How Mental Health Shapes Us
2.1.1. Emotional Stability and Self-Control
Emotional stability is one of the clearest reflections of mental well-being. Individuals
with stable mental health can recognize and regulate their emotions, allowing them to
respond thoughtfully rather than impulsively. This ability supports navigating stress,
criticism, and uncertainty without being overwhelmed. For instance, a student facing
tight deadlines can manage frustration and prioritize tasks effectively, while a
professional receiving constructive criticism can respond calmly, using feedback for growth.
In contrast, emotional instability—often linked to anxiety, depression, or prolonged
stress—can lead to irritability, impulsive reactions, or social withdrawal. Such patterns
weaken relationships, erode trust, and reduce self-confidence. Emotional control is
therefore not about suppressing feelings but about understanding and channeling them
effectively. It enables individuals to maintain harmony within themselves and with
others, forming a foundation for a meaningful and balanced life. 6 lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089
2.1.2. Cognitive Clarity and Decision-Making
Mental health also shapes cognitive functions such as attention, memory, reasoning, and
creativity. A clear mind allows individuals to prioritize, think critically, and make
rational choices aligned with their goals. Students with strong mental well-being
perform better academically, and professionals can manage complex tasks without being paralyzed by stress.
When mental health is compromised, cognitive abilities suffer. Chronic stress can reduce
focus and impair memory, while anxiety may lead to overthinking and indecision.
Depression often causes cognitive fog, making even simple tasks feel overwhelming.
These challenges affect productivity, decision-making, and confidence. Maintaining
mental clarity is therefore essential not only for intellectual performance but also for
daily functioning and purposeful living.
2.1.3. Resilience and Personal Growth
Resilience—the capacity to recover from setbacks and continue growing—is another
critical aspect of mental health. Mentally healthy individuals view difficulties as
temporary challenges rather than defining failures. They reflect on experiences, learn
lessons, and adapt strategies for improvement. For example, someone facing job loss
may use the experience to reassess goals, acquire new skills, and pursue new opportunities.
Without resilience, setbacks can trigger fear, hopelessness, or avoidance, preventing
personal growth. Emotional and cognitive flexibility allows individuals to face
adversity, extract insights, and build confidence. Mental health thus fosters not only
endurance but also growth, turning challenges into opportunities for learning and selfimprovement.
2.2. The Real-Life Effects of Mental Health
2.2.1. Impact on Daily Functioning
Mental health affects nearly every aspect of daily life. Individuals with positive
wellbeing tend to be more focused, organized, and productive. Students can manage
workloads efficiently, professionals can navigate workplace stress, and both can engage 7 lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089
meaningfully in social interactions. Good mental health also strengthens interpersonal
skills, enabling the formation and maintenance of strong relationships and fostering contributions to communities.
Untreated conditions such as anxiety, depression, or chronic stress can be as debilitating
as physical illnesses. People may struggle to complete routine tasks, experience reduced
motivation, or withdraw socially. Chronic stress impairs concentration and memory,
while depression can make ordinary activities—like cooking or commuting—feel
overwhelming. These challenges highlight that mental health directly impacts one’s
ability to function and thrive.
2.2.2. Connection Between Mind and Body
Mental and physical health are deeply interconnected. Emotional distress can disrupt
sleep, weaken immunity, and increase the risk of chronic illnesses, including heart
disease and diabetes. Stress often encourages unhealthy coping behaviors such as
overeating, smoking, or substance use, which further harm physical health. Conversely,
chronic physical illness can trigger anxiety, sadness, or frustration, showing that
challenges in the body can amplify psychological strain.
This reciprocal relationship underscores the need to value mental health on par with
physical health. Holistic approaches—combining medical treatment, therapy, and
wellness programs—have proven more effective than addressing either domain in
isolation. Supporting mental well-being enhances physical recovery and strengthens
resilience, reinforcing the idea that mind and body operate as a single, integrated system.
2.3. Building Awareness and Support
2.3.1. Encouraging Help-Seeking Behavior
Recognizing the importance of mental health empowers individuals to seek help without
fear or stigma. Many hesitate to ask for support, viewing it as a weakness. Education
about the prevalence and treatability of mental health conditions shifts this perception,
encouraging people to reach out to professionals, friends, or support networks. Early
intervention prevents worsening symptoms and fosters long-term emotional stability. 8 lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089
For example, employees who participate in workplace wellness programs or students
who attend counseling sessions often report improved coping skills and reduced stress.
By promoting proactive help-seeking, societies reduce the risk of severe mental health
crises and strengthen community well-being.
2.3.2. Breaking the Silence
Cultural stigma still prevents open discussion about mental health in many communities.
Public campaigns, social media initiatives, and educational programs help normalize
these conversations, demonstrating that seeking help is an act of courage and self-
respect. Communities that encourage openness allow individuals to share experiences,
ask questions, and support each other, reducing isolation and strengthening social cohesion.
2.3.3. Improving Quality of Life
Prioritizing mental well-being enhances focus, decision-making, and relationships. A
balanced mind fosters joy, creativity, empathy, and emotional intelligence. Practices
such as mindfulness, therapy, or stress management improve both psychological and
physical health, allowing individuals to navigate life with resilience and purpose. Mental
health is not only about alleviating illness; it enables individuals to reach their full
potential and contribute meaningfully to society.
2.4. Physical vs. Mental Health: A Fair Comparison
2.4.1. The Physical Health Priority Perspective
Some argue that physical health deserves more emphasis because its conditions are
visible, measurable, and often urgent. Broken bones, infections, or other physical
ailments can be diagnosed and treated directly, giving tangible evidence of illness and
recovery. Mental health issues, in contrast, often remain invisible, subjective, or gradual
in onset, which can make them appear less urgent or “real.” For example, a patient with
a fractured limb requires immediate medical attention, whereas someone struggling with
depression may show no outward signs yet still be unable to complete daily tasks. From
this perspective, prioritizing physical health seems practical, especially in healthcare
systems that emphasize measurable outcomes. 9 lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089
2.4.2. Rebuttal: Equal Importance of Mind and Body
This perspective, however, overlooks the profound impact of mental health on both
psychological and physical functioning. Untreated mental conditions such as anxiety,
depression, or chronic stress can lead to insomnia, fatigue, weakened immunity, and
increased risk of chronic illnesses, demonstrating clear physiological consequences.
Emotional instability also undermines decision-making, productivity, creativity, and
social relationships—areas that are essential for personal and societal progress. For
instance, an employee experiencing severe burnout may not have a visible physical
injury but can struggle with concentration, motivation, and completing tasks effectively.
Likewise, chronic physical illness often triggers anxiety or sadness, highlighting the
deep interconnection between mind and body. Neglecting one invariably affects the other.
In summary, mental health is an essential pillar of individual well-being, shaping
emotional stability, cognitive clarity, and resilience. It directly influences daily
functioning, relationships, and overall quality of life, while also interacting closely with
physical health. Recognizing its equal importance alongside physical health, promoting
awareness, and encouraging support-seeking are crucial steps for personal growth and
societal progress. Valuing mental well-being ensures individuals can thrive, adapt to
challenges, and reach their full potential. 10 lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089
III. Mental Health’s Impact on Societal Progress
3.1. Economic Productivity and the Workforce
The economic argument for mental health is overwhelming and quantifiable. The World
Health Organization (WHO) estimates that depression and anxiety disorders alone cost
the global economy US $1 trillion per year in lost productivity. This staggering figure is
largely driven by presenteeism—the state of being physically present at work but
functioning at a severely reduced cognitive and emotional capacity. Presenteeism
accounts for a larger share of lost productivity than absenteeism. A study published in
JAMA Psychiatry found that workers with depression report the equivalent of 2.5 more
sick days per month due to presenteeism than their healthy colleagues. This translates
into impaired decision-making, reduced quality of work, and a decline in the
collaborative spirit necessary for complex tasks. Furthermore, the labour market
participation rate is severely impacted. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation
and Development (OECD) reports that people with severe mental health conditions are
4-7 times more likely to be unemployed, representing a significant loss of skilled human
capital and a drain on social welfare systems. The associated corporate costs for
healthcare claims, disability leave, and employee turnover create a substantial,
preventable burden on economic competitiveness, diverting resources that could
otherwise be invested in research, development, and growth.
3.2. Human Capital and Educational Attainment
The foundation of a society's future is built in its educational institutions, where mental
health is a decisive factor in determining outcomes. Research consistently shows that
mental disorders are a leading predictor of educational underachievement. A large-scale
study found that students diagnosed with depression have a double the risk of dropping
out of school compared to their peers. Conditions like anxiety and ADHD directly
compromise the cognitive functions essential for learning: concentration, memory
retention, and executive function. By failing to provide early and effective support,
society allows a vast reservoir of potential to go untapped. The consequences extend
beyond academic grades to the development of essential soft skills. The World Health
Organization emphasizes that promoting child and adolescent mental health is integral 1 lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089
to learning and the development of core life skills like problem-solving, adaptability,
and emotional regulation. A nation that neglects the psychological well-being of its
youth is systematically undermining its own future pipeline of innovators, leaders, and an adaptable workforce.
3.3. Innovation, Creativity, and Cultural Vitality
Societal progress is fueled not only by incremental improvements but by leaps of
imagination and disruptive innovation. Mental health plays a complex but crucial role
in this domain. While there is a historical narrative linking mental illness to creativity,
modern research suggests that untreated suffering often paralyzes rather than inspires.
The cognitive load of conditions like depression and anxiety—characterized by
rumination, worry, and emotional exhaustion—consumes the very mental resources
required for divergent thinking, abstract reasoning, and cognitive flexibility. A study on
entrepreneurs found that while they may exhibit high energy, those with untreated
ADHD or anxiety struggled with consistency and follow-through, ultimately hindering
their ventures’ success. A mentally healthy population, in contrast, possesses the
cognitive freedom to take calculated risks, connect disparate ideas, and persevere
through the inevitable failures of the creative process. The cultural vitality of a society
—its arts, music, and literature—is also a hallmark of its development. This vitality is
dependent on the mental and emotional well-being of its creators. A society that supports
mental health fosters a sustainable and flourishing creative economy, rather than one
reliant on the unsustainable suffering of its artists.
3.4. Physical Health and Healthcare Systems
The mind-body connection is an empirically proven reality, creating a cascade of costs
for public healthcare systems. Individuals with serious mental illnesses have a risk of
premature mortality that is 1.8 to 2.0 times higher than the general population, largely
due to preventable physical conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and
respiratory ailments. This comorbidity arises from a combination of physiological
factors, such as the impact of chronic stress on the body, and behavioural factors,
including poorer self-care and challenges in navigating healthcare systems. This places
a disproportionate and unsustainable strain on resources. Despite this, mental health 2 lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089
globally receives less than 2% of national health budgets on average. This underfunding
creates a profoundly inefficient, reactive system. Healthcare providers are forced to
manage the downstream physical effects of untreated psychological distress, diverting
critical funding, personnel, and attention from other public health priorities, from cancer
screening to pandemic preparedness.
3.5. Social Cohesion and Civic Engagement
The strength and resilience of a society are measured by the strength of its social fabric
and the active participation of its citizens. Mental health challenges directly corrode
these foundations. Data from social surveys reveals that individuals with mental
disorders are significantly less likely to vote and participate in political processes. One
analysis of U.S. data found a reduction in voting likelihood of up to 15-20%, creating a
substantial "civic participation gap". Furthermore, the stigma, social withdrawal, and
interpersonal difficulties associated with conditions like depression and anxiety weaken
community bonds, strain family units, and reduce the informal support networks that are
crucial for resilience. This fragmentation undermines the collective efficacy—the shared
belief in a community's ability to act together—needed to solve complex collective
problems, from public safety to environmental sustainability. A society where a
significant portion of the population is isolated and disengaged is one that is less stable,
less trusting, and less capable of collaborative progress.
IV. Breaking Stigma Through Awareness
4.1. What Is Mental Health Stigma?
Mental health stigma encompasses negative, judgmental and discriminatory stereotypes
and attitudes toward individuals with mental health conditions. This stigma can manifest in several ways: •
Social stigma involves societal attitudes that deem mental health challenges as a
sign of weakness, leading to ostracization. •
Self-stigma occurs when individuals internalize these negative perceptions,
resulting in shame and reluctance to seek help. 3 lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089 •
Structural stigma refers to institutional policies and practices that perpetuate
discrimination, such as barriers to accessing healthcare and employment opportunities
4.2. Where Does It Come From? •
One major cause of mental health stigma is the lack of awareness.
Misconceptions and ignorance about mental health often lead to fear and
discrimination. Many people mistakenly believe that mental illness results from
personal weakness or poor self-control rather than biological and psychological
factors. For example, someone with depression may be told to “just be positive,”
as if their conditions were simply a choice. This lack of understanding prevents
empathy and perpetuates social exclusion. •
Another contributing factor is cultural and societal norms. In many cultures,
discussing mental health is considered shameful or taboo. For instance, in some
Asian societies like China, Japan, or South Korea, visiting a psychologist may be
seen as a sign of family failure or lack of discipline. Furthermore, the historical
context reveals a long-standing pattern of vilification and exclusion: in the past,
those with mental disorders were often locked away, blamed for misfortune, or
labeled as “mad.” Although attitudes have improved in recent decades, stigma remains pervasive. •
This persistent bias is intensified by media portrayals. Movies and news reports
frequently depict individuals with mental illness as violent, unpredictable, or
dangerous. For example, the character of the Joker in popular films reinforces the
idea that mental illness leads to criminal behavior. Such sensationalized
representations distort reality and strengthen public fear, making it harder for
those struggling with mental health conditions to be understood and accepted.
This historical and media-driven stigma highlights the urgent need for continuous
advocacy and education to foster genuine awareness and empathy.
4.3. How Does Mental Health Stigma Affect People? 4 lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089
Mental health is a vital pillar of overall well-being, yet despite its importance, it remains
widely misunderstood and heavily stigmatized across cultures and communities. This
stigma casts a long shadow, often portraying mental health challenges as personal
failings rather than legitimate medical conditions. Therefore, the consequences of this
stigma are profound and far-reaching. •
One of the most immediate effects of stigma is social isolation. Imagine a student
suffering from depression always has to avoid social gatherings to conceal his
medical condition. While others might see this as apathy and aloofness, in reality,
he is battling loneliness and exhaustion in silence. Many individuals with mental
health issues feel pressured to hide their struggles for fear of being labeled as
“unstable” or “weak” and then they surround themselves with an icy wall, cutting
off all connection to friends, family, and colleagues. This withdrawal cuts off
access to emotional support from friends and family, which is vital for recovery,
and instead deepens the sense of alienation. •
Another major consequence is delayed treatment. When mental health concerns
are dismissed or ridiculed, individuals are less likely to seek professional help.
Instead, they may downplay symptoms, avoid therapy, or refuse medication. This
reluctance to seek treatment allows symptoms to worsen over time, turning
manageable conditions into chronic issues. In extreme cases, untreated mental
illnesses can lead to self-harm or suicide. These tragedies that might have been
prevented if stigma did not silence those in need. •
Ultimately, internalized stigma can have devastating emotional, social, and even
economic consequences. When individuals constantly hear negative stereotypes
about mental illness, they may start to internalize those beliefs. This self-
stigmatization leads to shame, guilt, and low self-esteem, making recovery even
more difficult. Instead of seeing themselves as people deserving of care and
understanding, they view themselves as “broken” or “incapable". As a result,
untreated mental health issues lead to diminished productivity, strained
relationships, and increased risk of substance abuse or self-harm. The stigma
doesn’t just hurt individuals; it burdens families, workplaces, and entire healthcare systems. 5 lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089
4.4. Why Is Spreading Awareness Key to Breaking the Stigma?
Spreading mental health awareness is one of the most powerful ways to dismantle stigma
because stigma often stems from ignorance, fear, and misunderstanding. Promoting
mental health awareness is essential to help individuals understand these connections
and seek timely support for improved mental wellbeing. •
First, awareness helps normalize conversations about mental health. Campaigns
such as World Mental Health Day, organized annually by the World Health
Organization (WHO), encourage people worldwide to talk openly about
emotional well-being and seek help when needed. Additionally, schools,
workplaces, and communities now host mental health workshops and discussions
to remind everyone that psychological struggles are common and treatable just
like physical illnesses. This normalization helps reduce shame and empowers
individuals to speak up rather than suffer in silence. •
Second, awareness fosters empathy and social connection. Public figures and
influencers who share their personal stories such as Olympic athletes Simone
Biles or Japanese tennis player Naomi Osaka show that mental health challenges
can affect anyone. Their openness has encouraged millions to view mental illness
through a more compassionate lens. When people hear these stories, they are
more likely to support rather than judge those in distress. •
Third, awareness drives systemic change. Informed communities push for
stronger mental health policies, better counseling services, and fair treatment in
schools and workplaces. For example, national campaigns in countries like the
UK’s “Time to Change” and Australia’s “R U OK?” have led to measurable
improvements in help-seeking behavior and public attitudes toward mental illness.
Young people are more aware than ever of mental illness, largely due to explicit efforts
in recent decades to raise awareness about mental health and mental disorders, including
through the reach of social media. However, persistent workplace discrimination, subtle
social judgment, and unequal access to treatment reveal that stigma still operates beneath
the surface. Many employees continue to hide their conditions for fear of losing 6 lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089
opportunities, and people with severe disorders remain marginalized. Therefore,
awareness remains an ongoing and essential effort.
Beyond breaking stigma, mental health awareness also improves access to essential
resources. When people understand and value mental well-being, they are more likely
to seek professional help, support mental health programs, and advocate for fairer
healthcare systems. In this way, awareness not only challenges prejudice but also builds
the foundation for a more inclusive and supportive society.
V. Expanding access to care through advocacy
5.1. Concept of Mental Health Advocacy
The concept of mental health advocacy is relatively new and was initially developed to
reduce stigma and discrimination and to promote the human rights of persons with
mental disorders. The mental health advocacy includes a variety of different actions
aimed at changing major barriers to achieve positive mental health outcomes in populations.
Over the last three decades, the needs and rights of people with severe mental disorders
have become more visible. Families, and subsequently consumers, developed
organizations enabling their voices to be heard. They were joined and supported by
various non-governmental organizations, many mental health workers and their
associations and some governments. Recently the concept of advocacy has been
broadened to include the needs and rights of people with mild mental disorders and the
mental health needs of the general population.
The advocacy movement has substantially influenced mental health policy and
legislation in various countries and is believed to be a major factor in the improvement
of services in others. In several places, it is responsible for creating an increased
awareness of the role of mental health in the quality of life of populations. In many
societies, support networks have been established through advocacy organizations. 7 lOMoAR cPSD| 39651089
5.2. The importance of mental health advocacy
5.2.1. Effects on public health
Mental health significantly affects the overall health and well-being of individuals,
communities, and society. High levels of stress and anxiety can also lower productivity
and increase healthcare expenses, which can depress the local economy and harm the
community. Additionally, untreated mental health conditions can lead to higher rates of
substance misuse, domestic violence, and other crimes, which can have far-reaching
consequences for society as a whole.
5.2.2. Impact on policies and education
Mental health advocacy plays a crucial role in influencing policy and combating stigma
surrounding mental illness. One example is the development of progressive mental
health policies, such as parity laws that ensure equal treatment for mental and physical
health conditions. Advocacy also supports the integration of mental health education
into schools and community programs, helping normalize open discussions and encourage early intervention.
Overall, advocacy development plays a crucial role in advancing mental health policy
and legislation, ultimately improving public well-being. 8