In today’s fast-paced and demanding world, it is crucial to prioritize our health and well-being. Awareness of health also encompasses a holistic understanding of our physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
According to the World Health Organization, mental health encompasses more than just the absence of illness. It is a fundamental aspect of both our personal and societal well-being. To assess the significance of this matter, particularly during this National Mental Health Month, Capstone-Intel Corporation conducted a survey aimed at assessing individuals’ level of knowledge and comprehension regarding mental health.
The survey was conducted from September 20 to 27, 2023, utilizing a sample size consisting of 1,210 respondents.
The collected data reveals that 93% of all respondents possessed knowledge of the term “mental health.” A breakdown by regions reveals that 95% of people in the National Capital (NCR), 93% of people in Balance Luzon, 94% of people in Visayas, and 90% of people in Mindanao have heard of the term.
In addition, the data reveals that a significant percentage of respondents, specifically 7%, nationwide lack awareness of the term “mental health”. This lack of awareness is distributed as follows: 5% in the NCR, 7% in Balance Luzon, 6% in Visayas, and 10% in Mindanao.
The level of public awareness regarding mental health carries substantial implications for individuals, communities, and society at large. Capstone-Intel provides a comprehensive explanation and recommendation for this matter.
“When the public’s awareness of mental health is high, it has significant implications for individuals, communities, and society as a whole. Increased awareness leads to reduced stigma surrounding mental health issues. This means that individuals are more likely to seek help and support without fear of judgment or discrimination. A society with high awareness of mental health can experience positive societal impacts. With better mental health education and understanding, workplaces and educational institutions can implement policies and programs that promote and maintain mental well-being,” expressed Capstone-Intel.
Furthermore, Capstone-Intel emphasizes that the significance of mental health extends beyond public awareness alone.
“However, it is crucial to recognize that simply being aware of mental health is not enough. It is essential to actively take steps to improve and maintain our mental well-being, such as engaging in regular exercise, practicing mindfulness and meditation, maintaining healthy relationships, and seeking professional help when needed. It is important to note that seeking professional help does not imply that an individual is “mentally sick,” but rather demonstrates a proactive approach to managing one’s mental health. By normalizing the seeking of professional assistance, we can further diminish the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage individuals to prioritize their well-being. We must always remember that health is not just physical,” it added.
“Also, to promote the destigmatization of seeking professional support for mental health concerns, it is highly advantageous to incorporate annual executive check-ups that prioritize mental health evaluations and consultations. It is imperative that this be included in government health packages. Furthermore, it is crucial to raise awareness about the availability of psychosocial services within communities and the corresponding responses from the private sector, such as mental health services in workplaces, churches, and educational institutions. A comprehensive campaign should also be implemented to eradicate the stigma surrounding mental health conditions,” said Capstone-Intel.
