Why Mental Health Plays a Crucial Role in Overall Well-being: Insights from Dr. Jess.

Mental health is not merely the absence of illness. It is a state that impacts how we think, feel, and act. It dictates how individuals cope with the stresses of life, relate to others, and make choices.  

It directly affects one's ability to live a fulfilling life, so why does it still fly under the radar?  

When we use the term “mental health”, a number of things may come to mind. These often include diagnoses, symptoms, and treatment. However, the understanding of mental health extends beyond clinical definitions to encompass an individual's overall sense of well-being. 

Whether as a result of stereotypes or culture, many people tend to neglect maintaining their mental health. As Dr Jessica Hamuy Blanco puts it, "If we approach physical health with a level of importance or level of seriousness, then mental health has got to be included in that." 

Why the Silence is Getting Loud 

Prioritising mental health in real-world settings is easier said than done. For many people, mental challenges may not even be recognised as real issues, which means there's often no avenue for people to seek help. When someone tries to raise it, they may be met with discomfort or silence, making it difficult and isolating to speak about.  

"It's a very real fear that if something gets said, the perception of you might change," states Dr. Jess. 

These aren't just imagined fears; they reflect the real risks people face when speaking up. This may have profound implications that could threaten relationships or even their jobs. As a result, many choose to remain silent. Often, they ignore the issue until becomes a serious problem – and sometimes, that’s too late. 

How Dis-Chem Can Lead the Charge 

Dis-Chem has a massive opportunity to step up and truly prioritise mental health. It's more than just handing out meds. It's about getting people to understand that something like antidepressants is not a quick fix. It takes weeks for them to even start working, which is hard to wrap your head around when you're desperate. Standing at the front line, we need to prepare people for what to expect so they don't just stop taking their meds because they feel slightly off. It's about working with consumers and employees, emphasising that it's not one-size-fits-all. 

Dis-Chem can leverage its position as a healthcare leader to build innovative mental health solutions. It’s important to consider the different needs and perspectives across backgrounds and demographics. We are aiming to build an ecosystem that is positioned to support the mental health of our employees and customers. We want to help people foster an environment where they are equipped with the tools and support they need to navigate the complexities of mental health, both personally and professionally.  

Change Your Mindset to Change Your Mental Health 

How one approaches mental health begins with understanding that it isn't just something to worry about when things go wrong. Just like we exercise to maintain physical fitness, mental well-being also requires regular care and attention. Prevention must be prioritised over cure.  

As Dr. Jess eloquently states, "It applies to every single person in some way or other. So, every single person needs to understand the importance of focusing on their own mental health as well as the mental health of those around them." 

Mental health is a universal part of the human experience. When we begin to see it as something that deserves our proactive attention, we begin to create a culture that's more compassionate. We can get so much value from focusing on mental well-being even before it becomes an issue. The more people do that, the more there is to gain for individuals, families, and as a society.