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This month (September) is Suicide Prevention Month. While this should always be a priority concern, this month focuses on raising awareness of this important issue. This month provides an opportunity to change public perception, share information, and instill hope. The goal is to make sure that individuals, family and friends have access to the resources needed to address suicide prevention and to get the help needed.
Since the focus of this month is awareness, what exactly can be done to increase awareness of suicide and suicide prevention. It is common knowledge that suicide is a serious problem in our society. The data and statistics related to suicide support this. But how can we look past the statistics and numbers and focus on the individuals, families, and friends who experience the impact of suicide, and what can be done to increase the awareness of this. Awareness Addressing suicide is not just about raising awareness of the problem, but also about raising awareness of the issues that contribute to suicide. Suicide prevention involves changing the mindset by.
Changing the narrative involves a shift the culture of silence and stigma to one of understanding, openness, and support. This starts with communication. Communication # Start the Conversation involves ideas, key messages, resources, social media posts, webinars and other opportunities to learn and talk about suicide prevention. Suicide prevention focuses on having conversations. Having conversations with ourselves, with. loved ones, with community, and about mental health support resources.
Suicide Prevention Month gives opportunities to change perceptions and give hope. It is also a time to remember the lives lost and think about the millions of others who have struggled with suicidal thoughts. In doing this, we can reflect on how we can make a difference. Remember, just asking someone ‘Are You OK’ can make a difference! Peggy Fossen DNP, RN, CNE References #BeThe1To. (2023, September 15). https://www.bethe1to.com/ 988 lifeline. 988 Lifeline. (n.d.). https://988lifeline.org/ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.-c). Suicide data and statistics. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/facts/data.html Fuller, K. (2020, June 18). Compassion, tough conversations and suicide prevention. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/happiness-is-state-mind/202006/compassion-tough-conversations-and-suicide-prevention National Suicide Prevention Month. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. (2024, September 3). https://afsp.org/national-suicide-prevention-month/ Suicide prevention awareness month. Suicide Prevention Awareness Month - MN Dept. of Health. (n.d.). https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/suicide/basics/awarenessmonth.html Suicide prevention month. NAMI. (2024, August 30). https://www.nami.org/get-involved/awareness-events/suicide-prevention-month/ World Suicide Prevention Day. Suicide Call Back Service. (2023, August 31). https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/worried-about-someone/how-to-raise-awareness-world-suicide-prevention-day/
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Mental health is important for everyone, and it is evident that mental health disorders impact all of us regardless of our gender.
Recent statistics indicated that the prevalence of mental illness in men, in the United States, was 19.7%. When comparing this to women, which was at 26.4%, the difference is significantly noticeable. While this may seem a favorable statistic for men, the reasons for these statistics give a different story. Why are Men different? While males and females suffer from the same mental health disorders, their experiences can be very different. In fact, there are some very significant differences. Men tend to demonstrate mental health issues differently. Such as, some signs of mental health issues that are more prevalent in men include.
Gender stereotyping: This is a preconception related to the characteristics and roles that should be possessed by or performed by a woman or man. This can be harmful as it limits a person’s ability to develop their personal abilities and make choices in their life. Gender stereotypes can also affect how mental health disorders are experienced, perceived and treated. Especially in men. Gender differences: There are some differences in mental health specific to gender. Females tend to experience depression and anxiety more frequently than males, while males experience more substance abuse disorders and antisocial disorders than females. Gender bias: This refers to beliefs and practices that favors one gender over another. How men are treated for their mental health issues can be impacted by this. Many healthcare providers miss or misdiagnosis men’s mental health problems due to their own gender bias. Some providers may have the belief that men should not show weakness or just ‘man up’. Along with the challenges related to gender, there are other trends contributing to the challenges men face when dealing with mental health concerns. Men and Trends It is a known fact that mental illness is often overlooked in men. In addition, mental health disorders often go untreated as men are less likely to seek treatment. This is reinforced by the trends related to men and mental health issues.
Stigma Stigma has been associated with men and their expectations to suppress their emotions and be strong and stoic. This stigma can cause feelings of shame and weakness resulting in a reluctance to seek help or treatment. Research supports the link of seeking treatment for a mental illness to fear of being perceived as weak. The experience of stigma can manifest differently in men. Some commonly seen issues for men related to stigma are.
It is necessary to have conversations about men and mental health, if not men will continue to feel isolated and alone with their struggles with mental health. There does seem to be a growing awareness and willingness to address this concern. More celebrities are willing to share their stories and struggles. Prince Harry, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Ryan Reynolds, Brad Pitt, Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, and Michael Phelps are some of those that have come forward and publicly shared their stories. By doing this they are normalizing difficult discussions on mental health and letting other men know that their mental health matters. Along with increasing awareness that men struggle with mental health, the importance of resources for men with mental health issues has been recognized. Men do want support from family and friends, but the perception that this may make them seem weak could prevent them from seeking it. Therefore, resources specific to only men are extremely beneficial. These sources can provide many tools and resources addressing men and mental health. Some of these sites include. https://headsupguys.org/ https://mantherapy.org/ https://www.mhanational.org/infographic-mental-health-men June is Men’s Health Month and special consideration and focus is given to men by sharing education and awareness about men’s health issues. One article referred to mental health disorders in men as the ‘Silent Killer’. We all need to recognize the severity of this and seek out ways to help change the stigma related to men and mental health. Becoming educated on the issue, increasing awareness, knowing what resources are available, and most importantly starting conversations. Men want to talk about their mental health, they just might be waiting for someone to ask. Ask. Peggy Fossen DNP, RN, CNE References Andaloro, A. (2022, April 19). 20 male celebrities speaking out about mental health and encouraging others to do the same. BuzzFeed. https://www.buzzfeed.com/angelaandaloro/20-male-celebrities-who-have-opened-up-about-their-mental Chatmon, B. N. (2020). Males and mental health stigma. American journal of men’s health. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7444121/ Eric Tirrell, B. (n.d.). Breaking the stigma of men’s mental health. Butler Hospital. https://www.butler.org/blog/breaking-the-stigma-of-mens-mental-health Eshleman, W. (2020, December 14). Mental illness in men. Best Day Psychiatry & Counseling. https://bestdaypsych.com/mental-illness-in-men/ GoodRx. (n.d.). Mental health support and resources for men. GoodRx. https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/mental-health/mental-health-resources-men Griffith, D. M., By, Griffith, D. M., Ogunbiyi, A., Jaeger, E., & 2, A. (2024, April 2). Men and Mental Health: What are we missing?. AAMC. https://www.aamc.org/news/men-and-mental-health-what-are-we-missing How do gender stereotypes affect mental health? (n.d.). https://michaelshouse.com/blog/how-do-gender-stereotypes-affect-mental-health/ Men’s Health Month: Celebrated every june. Mens Health Month. (n.d.). https://menshealthmonth.org/ The gender gap in Mental Health. News. (2022, January 31). https://www.news-medical.net/health/The-Gender-Gap-in-Mental-Health.aspx#:~:text=Differences%20in%20mental%20health%20between%20the%20genders&text=Women%20have%20a%20significantly%20higher,use%20disorders%20and%20antisocial%20behaviors Vankar, P. (2024, February 12). Mental illness in past year male vs female U.S. 2022. Statista. https://www.statista.com/statistics/252311/mental-illness-in-the-past-year-among-us-adults-by-age-and-gender/#:~:text=As%20of%202022%2C%20some%2026.4,anxiety%20disorders%2C%20and%20mood%20disorders Mental Health Awareness
This month is dedicated to mental health awareness. What exactly does this mean and what makes this month any different from any other? Since 1949 Mental Health Awareness Month has been recognized every May. The goal has remained the same through the years: “to increase awareness of the importance of mental health and wellness in American’s lives and to celebrate recovery from mental illness.” Mental health is the focus for this month, and the importance it plays in everyone’s overall health and wellness is highlighted. There is no doubt that perceptions and awareness of mental health and mental illness have advanced since 1949, and there is an increase in understanding and acceptance for those experiencing challenges with mental health. However, there remains one barrier that is difficult to break down. Stigma. Breaking Down Stigma Mental Health Awareness Month uses their platform to address stigma by raising awareness, and providing education on how mental illness affects us all. Stigma has been around much longer than 1949 and has been a barrier for those with mental illness for a long time. It has become a significant barrier in seeking and receiving treatment for mental health concerns. While we are all familiar with the term ‘stigma’ and the negative impact it has; what exactly is stigma, and where did it originate from? Perhaps understanding this concept on a deeper level will assist in helping people to understand their own feelings related to stigma. (For an in-depth description of stigma, refer to the January blog post. This goes into the details and definitions). While the history of mental illness and stigma is sometimes difficult to understand or talk about, it is important to have some knowledge and understanding of what happened. Roots of Stigma The history of stigma is as long as the history of mental health, the misunderstanding, bias, and misperceptions have evolved across the millennia. It is no secret that the history of mental illness and related treatments is not always a pleasant one, and at times shocking. Ancient theories about mental health were founded on beliefs of supernatural causes, demonic possession, curses, and sorcery. Treatments were based on religion and superstition and included prayer, exorcisms, incantations, and other forms of spirituality. The care for those with mental health issues was seen as a burden and was even seen as a defect. Those abandoned by families were housed in workhouses, asylums, and at times faced a lifetime of imprisonment. Stigma arose from the feelings of shame and humiliation felt by families of those with mental illnesses. Those with mental health disorders were also ostracized from society and families. Fear now went hand in hand with stigma. People fear what they do not understand, and stigma comes from lack of understanding or fear. Hope While stigma today is significantly less than earlier times, it does still exist. It is estimated that millions go untreated because of these stigmas. Perhaps we need another Dorthea Dix. Dorthea Dix was an amazing woman who challenged the idea that those with mental illnesses could not be helped or cured. She fought against the negative practices and treatments of the mentally ill and was key in the social reform of care for the mentally ill. Her main interest was improving the life of those with mental illness. By doing this she was also playing her part in decreasing stigma. So, to answer the question: what makes this month any different from any other? It gives everyone the opportunity to learn, help others learn, listen to others, and try to gain a better understanding of the journey we are all going through with our mental health. Stigma is rooted in the lack of knowledge. This month is a chance to change that! Change begins with each one of us, making a commitment to do better and be better. - Dorothea Dix Peggy Fossen DNP, RN, CNE References Duverge, G. (2023, June 16). Breaking america’s mental health stigma. Touro University Worldwide. https://www.tuw.edu/psychology/breaking-americas-mental-health-stigma/ Mental Health & Stigma. Burn Away Your Burdens. (n.d.-a). https://www.bayburdens.org/blog/mental-health-stigma Mental Health Awareness Month. SAMHSA. (n.d.). https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health-awareness-month Parry MS. Dorothea Dix (1802–1887). Am J Public Health. 2006 Apr;96(4):624–5. doi: 10.2105/AJPH.2005.079152. PMCID: PMC1470530. Additional Links https://www.pbs.org/newshour/health/dorothea-dixs-tireless-fight-to-end-inhumane-treatment-for-mental-health-patients Alcohol Use Among Us
In 2022 84.1% Americans reported that they had used alcohol at some point in their lives. Alcohol use is part of life in our society. Many drink to socialize and during social activities. Alcohol can be part of cultural and religious ceremonies and practices. Alcohol is a personal preference, some individuals choose not to drink, and not all alcohol use is problematic. However, research has revealed that any amount of alcohol consumed can be risky. While the risk is low, it becomes greater as the consumption increases. So, when does the use of alcohol become an issue? Alcohol use and Alcohol use disorder impacted approximately 29.5 million people in the United States in 2022, and an estimated 178,00 individuals lose their lives to this condition yearly. Alcohol Awareness To increase our awareness and knowledge related to alcohol use, it is important to understand some of the terminology. Alcohol use varies in individuals based on how long it has been used and how much is being used. Some terminology related to this includes.
Binge drinking: This is considered to be a very serious problem and is the most common form of excessive alcohol use. It is described as consuming five or more alcoholic drinks for men, and four or more alcoholic drinks for women on one occasion. Binge drinking is not considered alcohol dependence; however, it can be harmful. It is linked to disease, injuries and can lead to alcohol use disorder. It is estimated that one in six adult Americans binge drink weekly. Excessive drinking: Includes binge drinking, heavy drinking, and any drinking by people under the age of 21 or pregnant women. Alcohol intoxication and Alcohol poisoning: Alcohol intoxication can happen very fast in a short amount of time, and varies based on sex, weight, health status, percentage of alcohol in drink, combining alcohol and medications/drugs, the rate and amount of alcohol consumption, and level of alcohol tolerance. There are seven stages to alcohol intoxication.
Alcohol use disorder: Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is also referred to as alcoholism, alcohol abuse, alcohol addiction, or alcohol dependence, and is a common medical condition. It is defined as the impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use. AUD is classified as a brain disorder and can be mild, moderate, or severe. There are risk factors associated with AUD that includes binge drinking and heavy alcohol use. Other factors include.
Alcohol use can be the root of many problems related to relationships, family, employment, and finances. But, perhaps most concerning is the impact it has on the mind and body. While alcohol can make us feel better, help with our stress, and help us to relax, it is important to remember this is only a temporary coping mechanism. As the alcohol leaves our system, we often feel worse. These feelings are a result of how the alcohol withdrawal is affecting our brain and body. Alcohol is a depressant and can disrupt the functioning of the neurotransmitters in the brain. This can affect feelings, behavior, and thinking. While you may feel relaxed and less anxious while drinking, once the alcohol wears off the chemical changes in your brain can result in anger, anxiety, or depression. Currently, research links the use of alcohol to an increase in mental health issues, and regular heavy drinking has been linked to depression. If used long-term alcohol can decrease the number of neurotransmitters in our brain which are needed to defend against anxiety and depression. The effects alcohol has on the body is concerning. Short-term effects include sleep problems, stomach distress, migraines, and reckless behavior. The effects from long -term alcohol use include serious health and social conditions including.
As the number of those suffering from the effects of alcohol and alcohol use disorder grows, so do efforts to increase awareness about the condition. This month is National Alcohol Awareness Month, with a focus on increasing awareness about alcohol abuse and dependency before it becomes fatal. We are all encouraged to increase our awareness about the causes of alcoholism, the risks of alcohol, and to discuss this serious disease openly. All those who are experiencing the negative effects of alcohol should know they are not alone. There is a plethora of resources and sites providing help and support. The following provide information and resources related to alcohol use. https://ncadd.us/ (National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence). https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/niaaa-middle-school/helpful-resources (National Institute on Alcohol and Alcoholism). https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002199.htm (Medline Plus). Burn Away Your Burdens also provides helpful resources related to mental health and alcohol use. Check out their link at: https://www.alcoholrehabguide.org/treatment/. Even if you do not struggle with alcohol use, or alcohol abuse, it is important to have this knowledge in order to make smart decisions for yourself and maybe help others to do the same. Peggy Fossen, DNP, RN, CNE References Alcohol and Mental Health. Mental Health Foundation. (n.d.). https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/alcohol-and-mental-health#:~:text=Alcohol%20affects%20the%20part%20of,anxiety%2C%20regardless%20of%20your%20mood Alcohol poisoning. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16640-alcohol-poisoning Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024a, February 29). Binge drinking.. https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/binge-drinking.htm Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024b, February 29). Drinking too much alcohol can harm your health. learn the facts. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/alcohol-use.htm Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, February 29). Deaths from excessive alcohol use in the United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/features/excessive-alcohol-deaths.html Cirino, E. (2018, June 29). Alcohol intoxication: Acute, symptoms, treatments, signs, and more. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/alcohol-intoxication Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2024, January 20). Alcohol in moderation: How many drinks is that?. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/alcohol/art-20044551 National Alcohol Awareness Month. National Today. (2021, August 4). https://nationaltoday.com/national-alcohol-awareness-month/ Symptoms and signs of alcohol addiction: Am I addicted to alcohol?. American Addiction Centers. (2024a, March 8). https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcohol/signs-symptoms U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Alcohol use in the United States: Age groups and demographic characteristics. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-topics/alcohol-facts-and-statistics/alcohol-use-united-states-age-groups-and-demographic-characteristics. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.-a). Alcohol use disorder (AUD) in the United States: Age groups and demographic characteristics. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-topics/alcohol-facts-and-statistics/alcohol-use-disorder-aud-united-states-age-groups-and-demographic-characteristics. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.-c). Understanding alcohol use disorder. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/understanding-alcohol-use-disorder Bipolar disorder affects approximately 2.6 % of the population in the United States. That is around 5.7 million people. Another source estimates 4.4 % of the population will experience bipolar during their lifetimes. While there are specific characteristics that most will experience, bipolar disorder is a unique journey for every individual experiencing it.
Defining bipolar disorder can be difficult, as it is such a different experience. Some descriptions are: “I am good for a while. I’ll talk more, laugh more. Sleep and eat normally. But then something happens, like a switch turns off somewhere and all I am left with is the darkness of my mind” (unknown). “It’s like having the motivation to change the world one moment, then not having the motivation to wash yourself.” (Unknown). “I was actually manic a lot of the times that I would take on workloads…I was conquering the world, but then it would all come crashing down, and I would be more depressed than ever” (Demi Lovato). Bipolar disorder is a very complex condition, and understanding what it is can help us to understand those who live with it better. To better understand bipolar disorder, knowledge of the concept of ‘Mood” is necessary. Mood can be defined as an individual’s emotional tone, that influences behavior, personality, and perception. Our mood consists of depression, joy, anger, and elation (Morgan & Townsend, 2021). Bipolar disorder is considered to be a mood disorder. We all have changes in our moods, and everyone has ups and downs. This is normal. But it is when these mood changes become extreme and pervasive that problems can arise. There are certain terms that are used frequently, and you may hear when bipolar disorder is discussed. Mania, mood lability, rapid cycling, and hypomania are used frequently when describing the moods of bipolar disorder (Morgan & Townsend, 2021). Mania: is a key symptom of bipolar disorder. It is recognized by an elevated, expansive, and irritable mood. The need for sleep decreases and energy increases. Mood Lability: This refers to rapid shifts in mood. One month the individual with bipolar disorder is happy, and the next month they are sad and depressed. Rapid Cycling: This is a continuous cycle that occurs between mania and depression. Types of Bipolar Disorders Adding to the complexity of bipolar disorders, is the fact that there are different types, and everyone who experiences this disorder experiences it differently. In order to understand this condition, it is essential to have an awareness of these different types which include.
You may have heard this referred to as Manic-Depressive Disorder in the past. Bipolar I is one of the most common forms experienced. Those with this type have persistent and severe episodes of depression and mania. In between these episodes, the individual may return to their normal mood state or baseline. This is known as euthymia. To be diagnosed with bipolar I, the person must experience depression lasting at least two weeks and at least one episode of mania, which lasts a week or results in hospitalization. Someone with bipolar I may also experience delusions or hallucinations. Individuals with bipolar I have difficulties maintaining relationships and employment. Bipolar II Disorder Bipolar II is also one of the more commonly experienced forms of this disorder. These individuals experience depression that lasts over two weeks. This depression is chronic and usually more severe than bipolar I. Another difference between I and II, is that those with bipolar II do not experience mania, but will have a less extreme form called hypomania. Cyclothymic Disorder Cyclothymic disorder or cyclothymia, is less common and also less severe than bipolar I and II. While the person experiences the highs and the lows they are not as severe. However, cyclothymic disorder can develop into bipolar I or II Coping Strategies for Bipolar Disorder Bipolar disorder is ongoing and can be a lifelong condition. It usually will not go away on its own. People that experience this disorder can feel alone and overwhelmed. Therefore, it is important they receive the care and support they need. Treatment for Bipolar disorder can include medications, psychotherapy, and long-term treatment. However, it is just as important to have personal coping strategies and lifestyle habits that can assist in managing this disorder. Some ideas that have been shared include.
There is no doubt that bipolar disorder is a difficult, and sometimes life changing, disorder for those who have it. As more people speak out and share their experiences, awareness and hope grows. March 30th of every year is World Bipolar Day. This provides global education, open discussion, and improved sensitivity about the disorder. It also provides an opportunity for those living with bipolar disorder to connect. “The ultimate goal is to inspire a global shift in thinking that will eliminate social stigma and promote acceptance” (www.ISBD). If this goal can be achieved, then hope will flourish! “Though I am often in the depths of misery, there is still calmness, pure harmony, and music inside me” (Vincent Van Gogh). Peggy Fossen, DNP, RN, CNE References Bipolar disorder. SAMHSA. (n.d.). https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/bipolar Cleveland Clinic. (2024, March 19). Do you know the different types of bipolar disorder? https://health.clevelandclinic.org/bipolar-1-vs-2 Collins, D. (2021, July 21). Quotes about bipolar disorder: You’re not alone. Psych Central. https://psychcentral.com/bipolar/bipolar-disorder-quotes#bipolar-disorder Morgan, K. I., & Townsend, M. (2021). Davis advantage for Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing. F. A. Davis Company Publishers. Team, B. E. (2024, March 3). 21 quotes about living with bipolar disorder. BetterHelp. https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/bipolar/33-bipolar-quotes-and-sayings/ WebMD. (n.d.). What are the types of bipolar disorder?. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/bipolar-disorder-forms 9 essential coping strategies for bipolar disorder. (n.d.). https://www.healthcentral.com/slideshow/essential-coping-strategies-for-bipolar-disorder Additional Links https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21603-mania https://www.verywellhealth.com/euthymic-mood-in-bipolar-disorder-5208599 https://www.verywellmind.com/hypomania-vs-mania-5208167 https://www.everydayhealth.com/bipolar-disorder/guide/resources/ https://www.isbd.org/world-bipolar-day |
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