# Understanding the Rise in Mental Health Issues Today
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Chapter 1: The Current Mental Health Landscape
In recent times, mental health has become a prominent topic in headlines. A simple search on the BBC News website reveals that this is not a new concern. An article dating back to November 2014, titled "Mental Health Is Leading Cause of Illness In the Workplace," indicates that awareness of these issues has existed for many years, yet the situation appears to have deteriorated.
There has been a noticeable rise in the number of individuals reporting mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Additionally, conditions like ADHD are increasingly recognized. General practitioners in the UK have noted a surge in cases among individuals in their 20s, with many citing mental health as a reason for prolonged absenteeism from work. Recent reports highlight that younger individuals are more likely to take sick leave compared to those in their 40s.
Research suggests that women are three times more prone to be diagnosed with mental health disorders. However, studies also indicate that men are less likely to seek help, complicating the accuracy of these statistics. Given the high male suicide rates, it is evident that we lack a complete understanding of the issue.
I once spoke with a woman who was deeply worried about her 50-year-old son, whom she believed was suffering from depression, paranoia, and schizophrenia. Despite her concerns, he had never received a formal diagnosis. When she attempted to seek help for him, she faced significant barriers. Because he posed no immediate risk to himself or others, she found it challenging to get the necessary support.
Countless similar stories exist globally, where individuals witness their loved ones struggling but feel powerless to assist them. The current system often hinders family involvement in mental health care, a stark contrast to past practices that involved extreme measures.
This situation prompts critical questions: Are younger generations genuinely facing worsening mental health challenges, or is it merely a reflection of increased awareness? A GP I spoke with noted that people in the 1950s and 1960s experienced issues like PTSD but often "worked through" their struggles. She advocated for more funding to enhance mental health services within the NHS, acknowledging the rising demand.
A friend of mine recently applied for a position on the NHS's Mental Health Crisis Line, where she was informed that staff handle an average of 70 calls daily. This staggering workload raises concerns about the ability of one person to manage such an overwhelming number of calls, especially when dealing with individuals in crisis.
Regardless of age or generation, everyone encounters personal challenges as well as broader societal issues. Although our understanding of mental health disorders has advanced, the healthcare system has not evolved at the same pace, leading to inadequate responses to the needs of individuals.
Historically, attitudes toward mental health have been extreme. Intervention is typically reserved for severe symptoms, such as auditory or visual hallucinations, or when there is an imminent risk of suicide—yet even then, access to intervention can be inconsistent.
Patients who have utilized Mental Health Crisis Support often report that the assistance provided was insufficient and did not lead to significant improvements. Many express feeling worse after seeking help.
It’s essential to explore effective solutions for supporting individuals facing mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression, rather than simply increasing funding without addressing systemic issues.
Mental health struggles can be multifaceted, with some patients dealing with underlying medical conditions that exacerbate their mental well-being—conditions like epilepsy, chronic illnesses like arthritis, Crohn's disease, fibromyalgia, and even undiagnosed autism or ADHD.
Transitioning into adulthood in your 20s can be overwhelming, often unprepared for the challenges that arise. It's crucial to have a supportive network of family and friends who can share the journey, providing reassurance and understanding during tough times.
Unfortunately, many young adults may prioritize friendships over familial support during this critical period when they need it most. I am committed to ensuring my children understand that they will always have a safe space at home, that they can rely on me for emotional support, and that no issue is insurmountable.
Ultimately, home represents the love of those around you, not merely a physical space filled with possessions.
Thank you for taking the time to read this. Take care!
