What’s mental health?

​

Mental health is a state of psychological, social and emotional well-being. This affects the way we think, feel and act. It involves emotional balance, the ability to deal with stress, to establish healthy relationships, to make appropriate decisions and to adapt to changes and adversities. It is influenced by several factors, including genetics, environmental factors, and life experiences. Mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, are examples of conditions that affect mental health. These conditions can affect brain function and a person's daily well-being.


 

What is the current state of mental health in the world vs. in Portugal?

​

• World
   

Worldwide, there is a growing prevalence of mental health conditions, primarily attributed to demographic shifts. Over the past decade until 2017, there has been a notable 13% increase in mental health conditions and substance use disorders. Disturbingly, around 20% of the world's youth grapple with mental health conditions, and suicide ranks as the second leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds.

 

The repercussions of mental health conditions extend across various facets of life, impacting academic or professional performance, interpersonal relationships with family and friends, and active engagement in the community. Depression and anxiety, two prevalent mental health conditions, collectively impose an annual cost of US$ 1 trillion on the global economy.

 

Despite these alarming statistics, the global median of government health expenditure allocated to mental health remains below 2%.
 

• Portugal

 

The data from the Ordem dos Psicólogos Portugueses and APPSO (2016), revealing that approximately 14% of active professionals in Portugal experienced burnout. These figures translate into diminished motivation, productivity, and ultimately, financial performance.

 

Various international studies shed light on the mental health landscape in Portugal, and this country is constantly at the forefront among the 18 Western European respondents in terms of the population experiencing heightened moments of worry throughout the day. Additionally, Portugal stands out for being second in the frequency of feeling sad during the day and fifth in the perception of daily stressful moments and situations.

In a more recent development, Portugal once again garnered negative attention in Europe. According to a study by Small Business Prices (2021) analyzing 26 countries, this nation secured the top spot in a ranking assessing the risk of burnout in the European Union.

 

On a bigger scale, 12% of Portuguese people suffer from chronic depression, the highest number in the European Union, with a percentage of just 7%.


















 

The incidence rate of the disease is more than double among Portuguese women (16.4%) compared to Portuguese men (7.5%). The highest prevalence of chronic depression in women occurs throughout Europe, however, in Portugal the difference is much more pronounced (in the EU it affects less than 9% of women and 5.6% of men).


 

Does Portugal have a good answer towards these mental health issues?
 

A team from the World Health Organization carried out an assessment of Mental Health reforms in Portugal and identified the following weaknesses:

​

• Some geographic areas were not yet sufficiently covered by local mental health services;

• Human resources in existing services were scarce and poorly qualified;

• There was a risk that local mental health services could be overwhelmed with cases related to anxiety and depression, referred by primary health care;

• People with chronic and more serious mental health problems were at risk of being ignored or not receiving the necessary care;

• The care provided by local mental health services was mainly pharmacological, with poor psychosocial components;

• Financing was unstable and its sustainability was a major problem.

​

​

​

What are some problems associated with a lack of mental health?

​

The difficulties associated with mental illness can vary significantly depending on the type of disorder, the intensity of the symptoms and the individual context. Here are some of the common difficulties associated with mental illness:

​

• People dealing with mental illness often face social stigma and discrimination, which can lead to feelings of isolation and shame.

​

• Problems accessing Treatment:

  • Many people face challenges accessing treatment due to financial barriers (related to treatment, including medications and therapy), lack of mental health services in the community, or long waiting lists for appointments.

​

• Commitment to Interpersonal Relationships:

  • Mental illness can affect family relationships, friendships and romantic relationships, causing conflicts, misunderstanding and social isolation.

​

• Impact on Work and Education:

  • Difficulties in maintaining performance at work or school due to symptoms such as lack of concentration, fatigue and frequent absences.

​

• Self-stigma and Guilt:

  • Some people with mental illnesses may internalize the stigma, feeling ashamed and guilty about their condition, which can make it difficult to seek help.

​

• Side Effects of Medications:

  • Psychotropic medications can have significant side effects, such as weight gain, drowsiness and decreased libido (reduced sex drive), which can impact quality of life.

​

• Relapse Cycles:

  • Some mental conditions are prone to cycles of improvement and relapse, which can be challenging for individuals seeking to maintain emotional stability.

​

• Impact on Self-Esteem:

  • Mental illness can negatively affect self-esteem and self-image, contributing to a cycle of negative thoughts.

​

 

It is essential to address these difficulties, which anyone is prone to developing, so you should always be accompanied by a specialized doctor. Support from family, friends and community also plays a crucial role in the recovery process.

​

​

​

How did Covid19 impact the mental health in Portugal?










 

 

​
 

The impact of COVID-19 on mental health in Portugal has been significant, as in many other countries. Some of the areas of impact include:

​

• Social Isolation and Loneliness:

  • Social distancing measures and lockdowns have contributed to social isolation, leading to feelings of loneliness and disconnection.

​

• Anxiety and stress:

  • The uncertainty brought by the pandemic, health concerns, economic impact and changes in daily routine have been sources of stress and anxiety.

​

• Losses and Grief:

  • The loss of loved ones to COVID-19 and the need to deal with grief amid restrictions on funerals may have negatively impacted people's mental health.

​

• Economic Impact:

  • The economic crisis associated with the pandemic, including job losses and financial difficulties, has been an additional stressor for many Portuguese people.

​

• Challenges in Accessing Mental Health Care:

  • Some people may have faced difficulties accessing mental health services due to disruptions in healthcare systems or the endless wait.

​

• Adaptation to Online Education:

  • Students faced challenges adapting to online education, including a lack of social interaction.

​

• Impact on Vulnerable Populations:

  • Vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, people with pre-existing health conditions and those in unfavorable socioeconomic situations, may have faced specific challenges.

​

• Pandemic Fatigue:

  • The prolongation of the pandemic situation may have caused mental fatigue, with people feeling overwhelmed by constant worry and adaptation to changes.

​

• Physical and Mental Health Care:

  • Concern about physical health, combined with the need to implement preventive measures, may have impacted people's mental health, given the close interconnection between the two. The fact that one is being affected can directly influence the other.

​

• Increase in Domestic Violence Cases:

  • As in many places, confinement has increased concerns about cases of domestic violence, putting victims at greater risk.

 

​

The approach to addressing these challenges includes promoting mental health services and awareness campaigns. Constant monitoring and adaptation of strategies as the situation evolves are essential to protect the mental health of the population.

 

​
 

What institutions are trying to prevent mental health problems?

​

Institutions are used to provide support and guidance for prevention and care in relation to mental health, being important both in the nation and in the world. As in other countries, it is possible to find organizations responsible for promoting psychological well-being and preventing mental illnesses in Portugal.

 

The Associação de Psiquiatria Portuguesa (APP) is an important organization in promoting mental health in Portugal. The purpose of the APP is to raise awareness in society about the relevance of mental care, providing data and resources to understand the various psychiatric conditions. Furthermore, this Association tries to combat the stigma related to mental illnesses, promoting a more supportive and inclusive approach.

 

The Sociedade Portuguesa de Psicologia Clínica (SPPC) is another important organization that focuses on promoting evidence-based practices for treating mental health problems. SPPC helps improve the mental health of the population by training professionals.

 

The World Health Organization (WHO) has led major international efforts to promote mental health. The World Health Organization (WHO) works to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness around the world by organizing awareness campaigns and providing guidelines for mental health policies. The company also emphasizes that promoting mental health requires a holistic approach that takes into account social, financial and cultural aspects.

 

Additionally, the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) is an international organization dedicated to promoting policies and practices that help prevent mental illness and psychological well-being. WFMH works with governmental and non-governmental organizations to implement effective prevention and intervention plans.

 

It is essential to emphasize that mental health prevention and care require integrated actions in several areas, such as health, education, work and community. In order to promote the mental well-being of communities and individuals, these institutions play a crucial role in promoting awareness, education and cooperation to create healthier and more cooperative environments.

​

On a national scale, Portugal:

​

• Programa Nacional de Saúde Mental(PNSM): In Portugal, the PNSM focuses on promoting mental health, preventing illnesses and ensuring access to high-quality services, working together with various entities.

• National Network for Continuous Integrated Care in Mental Health: a national project that aims to provide integrated care for people with mental health problems, facilitating the transition between various levels of care.

 

At a global level:

​

• The World Health Organization (WHO) Mental Health Gap Action Program (mhGAP) is a global WHO initiative that aims to increase access to mental health services by training professionals in low- and middle-income countries.

• Grand Challenges in Global Mental Health: a global project that brings together researchers and mental health professionals to solve mental health problems, promoting innovation and practical solutions.

• World Psychiatric Association (WPA) Cross-Cultural Mental Health Program: a WPA initiative to promote understanding of cross-cultural mental health by adapting strategies to different cultures.

• The Mental Health Innovation Network (MHIN) is a global platform that connects organizations, researchers, and mental health professionals to exchange information about mental health innovations and promote winning projects around the world.

 

​

These initiatives showcase joint efforts, at national and global levels, to address difficult challenges associated with mental health, demonstrating the importance of cooperation between different sectors.

 

​

​

How to prevent mental health problems?

​

Preventing and combating mental illnesses requires integrated measures at the individual, community, and social level. The following are some methods to improve mental health and prevent psychological disorders:

 

1. Learning and Awareness:

• Educational campaigns to increase awareness about mental health and reduce the stigma of psychological disorders.

• Add emotional education programs to schools to teach students how to manage their emotions as early as elementary school.

 

2. Availability of Mental Health Services:

• Ensures affordable access to mental health, including incorporating mental health care into primary care.

• Build helplines and online services to provide guidance and support.

 

3. Support Healthy Living Trends:

• Promoting regular physical activity is associated with improvements in mental health.

• Promote the importance of adequate sleep and a balanced diet for mental well-being.

 

4. Positive Places at Work and School:

• Implement policies that promote healthy work environments, with a focus on work-life balance.

• Establish a school environment that fosters resilience, empathy, and support among students.

 

5. Immediate intervention:

• To quickly identify and treat mental health problems, create early intervention programs.

• Help educators, parents and health professionals identify signs of psychological disorders in children and adolescents.