Reasons why people experience mental health issues
Here are some situations that can trigger mental health crises:
1. Loss or grief, such as the death of a loved one 2. Major life changes, such as divorce, job loss or retirement 3. Trauma such as abuse or violence 4. Chronic illness or chronic pain 5. Financial difficulties 6. Relationship problems such as breakups or conflicts with friends or family members 7. Substance abuse or addiction 8. Major life events such as a wedding or a new baby 9. Legal problems such as arrests or lawsuits
It is important to remember that everyone experiences stress and mental health challenges differently. If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, it's important to seek help from a mental health professional or crisis support line.
Abortion-Related Challenges For some individuals, abortion-related challenges can trigger mental health crises. Abortion can be a complex and emotionally charged issue and some people may experience feelings of sadness, guilt, shame or regret after having an abortion.
For some individuals, accessing abortion services may also be difficult due to financial, logistical or legal barriers, which can exacerbate feelings of stress and anxiety.
Additionally, individuals who face stigma or judgment from their communities or loved ones for their decision to have an abortion may also experience mental health challenges. It is important to note that everyone's experience with abortion is different, and not everyone who has an abortion will experience mental health challenges. However, for those who do, it's important to seek support from mental health professionals or organizations that specialize in reproductive health and rights.
Misinformation about mental health issues
Misinformation can have serious consequences for mental health. It is important to be aware of the accuracy of information related to mental health issues.
Misinformation and disinformation related to long covid and the pandemic in general can be a significant driver of mental health crisis for long covid patients. Here are some ways in which this can happen: 1. Increased anxiety: Misinformation and disinformation can increase anxiety and fear about long covid and the pandemic. This can lead to individuals experiencing heightened feelings of stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate mental health challenges. 2. Lack of trust: Misinformation and disinformation can lead to a lack of trust in public health institutions and medical professionals. This can make it difficult for individuals to seek help or access treatment, as they may be hesitant to trust medical professionals or follow public health guidelines. 3. Stigma: The spread of misinformation and disinformation can fuel stigma surrounding long COVID and the pandemic. Consequently, individuals may feel ashamed or embarrassed about their illness, further aggravating mental health difficulties. 4. Confusion and uncertainty: Misinformation and disinformation can lead to confusion and doubt about long COVID and the pandemic, hindering individuals from comprehending the illness and making well-informed choices regarding their health. This can result in a sense of helplessness and worsen mental health difficulties. It is important for individuals to seek out accurate information from reputable sources, such as public health organizations and medical professionals, to help combat the negative effects of misinformation and disinformation.
Additionally, mental health professionals can provide support and treatment to help individuals manage mental health challenges related to long covid and the pandemic.
Gaslighting of long COVID patients by doctors and other healthcare professionals can be a serious issue that can lead to mental health challenges for patients.
Here are some ways in which we are planning to tackle this issue:
1. Provide education and awareness: VIYA provides education and awareness about gaslighting in healthcare settings, including what it is and how it can affect patients. This can help patients recognize when they are being gaslighted and take steps to address the issue.
2. Training for healthcare professionals: The platform provides training for healthcare professionals on how to communicate with long COVID patients in a way that is supportive and respectful. This includes training on active listening, empathy and validation.
3. Support for mental health: At VIYA, we provide mental health support for patients such as access to mental health professionals and mental health advocates, support groups and educational resources on coping strategies.
4. Address systemic issues: VIYA works to address systemic issues that contribute to gaslighting in healthcare settings. Our efforts involve advocating for changes in medical education to emphasize patient-centered care, as well as working with healthcare organizations to implement policies that prioritize patient-centered care and reduce instances of gaslighting.