Overcoming Barriers to Mental Health Treatment

Shaniya Nawaz

Mental health is a vital component of overall well-being that often goes overlooked or stigmatized in society. However, it is important to acknowledge that mental health holds equal significance to physical health, and seeking assistance is a crucial step towards recovery and rehabilitation. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately one in four individuals globally will experience mental or neurological ailments at some point in their lifetime. Sadly, many individuals struggling with mental health concerns feel ashamed or embarrassed when it comes to seeking help, which can hinder their access to necessary treatment.

Recognizing the Need for Assistance: There are several indicators which suggest that an individual may require aid or therapy for their mental well-being. Common signs include consistent feelings of sadness, despair, or emptiness, decreased interest in previously enjoyable activities, changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty concentrating or making decisions, irritability, frustration, or agitation, feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness, physical symptoms such as headaches or stomach pains with no apparent cause, thoughts of suicide or self-harm, and substance abuse.

There are many reasons why individuals may hesitate or feel apprehensive about seeking professional assistance for their mental health. These can include concerns about societal disapproval, financial constraints, uncertainty about what to expect, feelings of shame, lack of confidence in the therapeutic process, inconvenience, language barriers, and past negative experiences with mental health care providers.

Hope and Support: Fortunately, there are many resources and treatments available that provide hope for individuals struggling with mental health issues. Therapy, medication, and support groups are among the options that are accessible for those seeking help. It is important to prioritize the mental health implications of the global outbreak of COVID-19, which has caused significant distress and anxiety for many individuals, exacerbating pre-existing mental health conditions. As a result, it is essential to ensure that affected individuals can readily access appropriate resources and support to manage the persistent challenges.

It is crucial to recognize that mental health treatment is as important as physical treatment, and seeking help is not a sign of weakness. We must combat the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage individuals to seek the help they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives. 

“Prioritizing mental health is not a weakness; it is a courageous step towards healing and living a fulfilling life.”

– The author is a New Delhi based Law student. She can be reached at sanianawaz4321@gmail.com