Mental Health & Neurological Disorder

Mental health is a state of well-being in which people and societies function better.

Mental and neurological disorders are a major group of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) that affect thoughts, feelings, behavior and relationships.

These include a variety of diseases and conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, anxiety disorders and addictions, among others. An estimated 450 to 500 million people worldwide live with mental disorders. 

Photo credit : Fairview Rehab | signs of Neurological Disorder

What is Mental Health & Neurological Disorder?

Mental health is a state of well-being in which people and societies function better. This means that people can manage the stresses of everyday life, work productively and contribute to their community.

Mental illness and neurological disorders are conditions that affect thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships. These include illness-intensive disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, dementia, substance use disorders. These conditions can be experienced in isolation; However, they often coexist with other noncommunicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory diseases and cancer.  

What are Risk Factors for Mental Health & Neurological Disorder?

Mental states are often determined by the environmental and social conditions in which people live and by their exposure to risk factors. Risk factors for mental and neurological disorders include genetics, older age, smoking, drug and alcohol use, poor diet and lack of exercise. Environmental stresses such as pollution and head injuries also pose risks to individuals.

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How can we Prevent from Mental Health & Neurological Disorder?

Research into preventing mental and neurological disorders is ongoing, but a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of these disorders.

A nutritious diet, tobacco cessation, alcohol cessation, and increased physical activity can be considered preventive measures. 10-20% of children and adolescents worldwide suffer from mental disorders. Half of all mental illness begins by age 14 and three quarters by mid-20s. A lifelong focus on prevention through early detection and prevention of mental health problems is crucial.

How do you Treat Mental Health & Neurological Disorder?

While there is currently no single cure for mental and neurological disorders, treatments exist for a few specific conditions.

For Alzheimer's disease, there is a class of drugs called cholinesterase inhibitors that can slow the progression of the disease. Other medications are available to suppress some of the specific symptoms of mental disorders, such as mood swings and insomnia. In addition to medication, emotional support and therapy are often used to help people with mental disorders.

The reality, however, is that health systems have yet to respond appropriately to the burden of mental health disorders. Globally, there is a significant gap between the need for long-term care and its access. In low- and middle-income countries, an estimated 76-85% of people diagnosed with a mental disorder go untreated. Even in high-income countries, the percentage is high, ranging from 35% to 50%. People with mental disorders often face serious human rights violations, discrimination and stigma. As a result, many people never seek a diagnosis or treatment for their condition.