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Mental illness can it self be quite impairing and in some cases incapacitating, in the manner that it prohibits or prevents an individual from engaging effectively into the social and occupational spheres of life. This may happen during the active illness state or even with some residual symptoms of the illness despite adequate treatment, which can be quite challenging and also discouraging for a treating Psychiatrist.
Howsoever, most of the times what is even more discouraging for a Psychiatrist or a Therapist is the imminent, unjustified and unscientific stigma attached to the mentally ill which severely limits an individual’s participation into the society despite complete recovery from the illness. Sometimes, this stigma is even more impairing than the illness itself. Whether its finding work again, making friends or finding a life partner, everything is much more difficult. Rigid beliefs about mentally ill, critical comments, discrimination, poor support (even) from the loved ones make matters extremely difficult.
Only if, the society can provide the mentally ill with some rights, faith and respect, everyone can contribute to the society in multiple ways and lead a life full of dignity, productivity and happiness.
Dr Sugandha Gupta delivering a talk and interacting with the staff at punjab National Bank, Rajenrdra Place branch, New Delhi on the topic of “stress & mental health – 10th July 2017
Worldwide prevalence of depression is almost 322 million, which means that around us, amongst our own loved ones there are people suffering from this tormenting disease. Yet, we are unable to identify their suffering (people tend to hide it well as depression is a sign of emotional weakness) or are unable to discuss this with them (lack of our own awareness. abilities & limitations).
Howsoever, it has been found in studies that talking to some one about one’s emotional difficulties not only provides immediate support but also inculcates a long term sense of control, confidence & hope.
We don’t need to do much, just provide a patient, compassionate, non judgmental and reflective listening. Impart a sense of adequacy, channelize thoughts and emotions in a positive direction and provide hope.
So, this World Health Day, let’s come out of our closets, open up our minds & free our souls of the sufferings – let’s talk!
PSYCHOLOGICAL FIRST AID:
GOOD COMMUNICATION:
THINGS TO SAY & DO
1. Try to find a calm place, free of distractions to talk to.
2. Be patient & calm.
3. Show that you are listening – nod and make eye contact.
4. Stay close, but keep a comfortable distance as a person who has undergone a recent traumatic experience may feel threatened.
5. Provide correct & factual information. If the information is not available – ‘admit & assure to find it out as soon as possible’
6. Give information in the simplest way possible.
7. Acknowledge his pain & suffering.
8. Acknowledge his strengths & capabilities
9. respect their privacy, maintain confidentiality.
PSYCHOLOGICAL FIRST AID:
GOOD COMMUNICATION:
THINGS NOT TO SAY & DO
1.Do not pressurize for information.
2. Do not interrupt o rush someone’s story.
3. Don’t give your opinions of the person’s situation
4. Don’t judge what they have or haven’t done- don’t say-“you are lucky to have survived…”
5. Don’t tell someone else’s story
6. Don’t tell about your own troubles.
7. Don’t make false promises.
8. Don’t feel you have to solve all the person’s problems.
9. Don’t take away their sense of capability and strength.
The world mental health day is celebrated every year on the 10th of October to create awareness about mental illness in the masses.
The first mental health day was celebrated in 1942 and since then has been carried n with greater participation till date.
This year’s mental health day theme is – Psychological First Aid!
What is psychological first aid?
In the simplest of words it means providing psychological & social support to a person in distress.
Who all can do it?
Anyone with the right guidance can, you need not be a doctor, counselor, nurse or religious figure.
When can it be done?
1. any natural disaster – floods, droughts, terror attacks, riots.
2. any personal distress – robbery, divorce, death of a loved one, loss of job.
3. anyone suffering from violence or abuse at home or work.
Why do we need Psychological First Aid?
People do better in long term if
They feel safe, connected to others, calm & hopeful.
They have access to social, physical & emotional support
They regain a sense of control by being able to help themselves.
Principles of Psychological first aid:
PREPARE – learn about
• Crisis event
• Available services & support
• Safety & security concerns
LOOK – observe for
• Safety
• People with obvious urgent basic needs
• People with serious distress reactions
LISTEN-
• Make contact with people needing support
• Ask about their needs & concerns
• Listen to them, help them feel calm.
LINK-
• Help people’s basic needs& access services
• Help people cope with problems
• Give information
• Connect people with loved ones and social support.
The world mental health day is celebrated every year on the 10th of October to create awareness about mental illness in the masses.