Why Are Psychological Issues Not Taken Seriously?
In today’s rapidly advancing world, where information is available at the tap of a screen, it is disheartening that psychological issues remain misunderstood and often dismissed. Despite growing awareness, mental health challenges continue to be stigmatised and underestimated. This article explores why these issues are not taken seriously, the consequences of such neglect, and how society can move towards greater acceptance and understanding.
The Intangibility of Psychological Issues
One of the primary reasons psychological
issues are not given the attention they deserve is their intangible nature.
Unlike physical illnesses, which often have visible symptoms, psychological
suffering is internal and difficult to observe. This invisibility makes it
harder for people to empathise with or validate the pain of those affected.
For instance, consider two
individuals experiencing mobility challenges: one due to arthritis and the
other due to an injury. Despite both suffering equally, the person with an
injury often receives more attention and care. Why? The injury’s cause is
tangible and easily understood, whereas arthritis, though equally debilitating,
remains less visible and relatable. Similarly, individuals with psychological
issues may appear "fine" on the outside, leading others to
underestimate their struggles.
This lack of physical evidence
contributes to the perception that mental health issues are not “real” or
severe, perpetuating neglect and inaction.
Misconceptions and Stigma
The Role of Stigma in Mental Health
Stigma remains a significant barrier
to addressing psychological issues. People struggling with mental health
challenges are often labelled as weak, lazy, or attention-seeking. These
misconceptions can lead to feelings of shame, discouraging individuals from
seeking help.
This stigma extends beyond
individuals to families and communities. In many cultures, mental health
challenges are seen as a reflection of personal failure or poor upbringing.
Families may hide the struggles of a loved one to avoid social judgment,
further isolating the individual in need.
Misinterpreted Behaviours
Another challenge lies in
recognising psychological distress through behaviour. While behaviours like
withdrawal, irritability, or emotional outbursts are visible, they are often
misinterpreted as acts of rebellion, laziness, or manipulation.
For example, a teenager struggling
with anxiety might skip school or avoid social interactions. Instead of
understanding these actions as signs of distress, parents or teachers might
label them as irresponsibility or defiance. Such misinterpretations not only
delay intervention but also exacerbate the individual's struggles.
The Intersection of Faith and Mental Health
Misattributing Psychological Issues to Lack of Faith
In many communities, including those
with strong religious values, psychological struggles are often linked to a
perceived distance from faith. While it is true that spirituality and religion
can provide comfort and strength, attributing all mental health challenges to a
lack of religiosity oversimplifies the issue.
For instance, some individuals may
suggest that a person experiencing depression is struggling because they are
not praying enough or lack gratitude. This view disregards the complex
biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to mental health
conditions.
Islam’s Perspective on Mental Health
Islam, for example, acknowledges the
complexities of human emotions and mental struggles. It provides guidance for
seeking help, encourages compassion, and emphasises the importance of
supporting one another. The Qur’an and Hadith offer numerous examples of the
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) addressing the emotional and psychological
well-being of his companions with kindness and understanding.
Faith can indeed be a source of
strength during psychological struggles, but it should not replace professional
help when needed. Recognising the role of both spiritual and medical support is
crucial in addressing mental health comprehensively.
Parental Denial and Social Pressures
Emotional Struggles of Parents
Parents often struggle to accept
their child’s psychological challenges. This denial can stem from genuine
emotional difficulty in coming to terms with the situation. A parent might
think, "How could this happen to my child?" or "Where
did I go wrong?" These thoughts can lead to avoidance or denial,
delaying critical interventions.
Social Expectations and Ego
In some cases, denial stems from
fear of societal judgment. Parents might worry about how their child’s
condition reflects on them or how others will perceive their family. Phrases
like “What will people say?” or “Our family has never dealt with this
before” are common in such situations.
Ego can also play a role. Some
parents may refuse to accept their child’s struggles because doing so feels
like admitting personal failure. This resistance can harm the child, as early
intervention is often key to effective treatment.
The Importance of Timely Intervention
Ignoring psychological issues does
not make them disappear; it often exacerbates the problem. Early recognition
and treatment are vital, whether the condition is progressive or manageable.
Consequences of Delayed Action
When mental health challenges are
ignored, they can worsen over time, leading to more severe symptoms or
complications. For example, untreated anxiety can evolve into chronic panic
disorders, and depression can lead to self-harm or suicidal thoughts.
Benefits of Early Intervention
Just as with physical illnesses,
early intervention can prevent worsening symptoms and improve overall outcomes.
Seeking help in the early stages can provide individuals with coping
mechanisms, tools for recovery, and a support system to navigate their challenges
effectively.
Steps for Addressing Psychological Issues
Acceptance
Acknowledging the existence of a
psychological issue is the first and most critical step. It’s normal to feel
overwhelmed, but denial only delays recovery. Taking a moment to breathe,
reflect, and recognise the problem is essential.
Seeking Professional Help
Consulting mental health
professionals ensures an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
Therapy, counselling, or medication can significantly improve the quality of
life for those struggling.
Building Support Systems
Support from friends, family, and
the community can make a world of difference. Knowing that one is not alone in
their struggles can foster hope and resilience.
Educating Yourself
Learning about mental health
challenges can help dispel misconceptions and foster empathy. It also equips
individuals with the knowledge to identify early signs and provide support to
others.
The Role of Society in Changing Perceptions
Creating a society that takes
psychological issues seriously requires collective effort. Steps to achieve
this include:
- Normalising Conversations: Open discussions about mental health can help reduce
stigma. Sharing stories and experiences can foster understanding and
acceptance.
- Promoting Empathy:
Encouraging individuals to understand and validate others’ experiences,
even if they differ from their own.
- Investing in Awareness: Providing education about mental health in schools,
workplaces, and communities can challenge misconceptions and promote early
intervention.
- Supporting Mental Health Policies: Advocating for better access to mental health
resources and services ensures that help is available to those who need
it.
Balancing Faith and Flexibility
While faith can be a source of
strength, it is important to balance religious understanding with practical
solutions. Religion provides guidance and resilience, but it also acknowledges
human vulnerabilities. Islam, for instance, encourages seeking help and
recognises the need for self-compassion.
Individuals and communities must
embrace this flexibility while ensuring that mental health challenges are
addressed holistically.
Conclusion
Psychological issues are as real and
significant as physical illnesses, yet they remain under-recognised due to
their intangible nature, societal stigma, and misconceptions. To address this
neglect, society must shift its attitudes, fostering empathy, education, and
early intervention.
By recognising the complexities of
mental health, challenging outdated beliefs, and offering timely support, we
can create a more compassionate and inclusive world. Remember, mental health is
not a weakness—it is an integral part of overall well-being, deserving of care,
attention, and respect.
M.Phil. Professional Psychology
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