'Mental Health is the basis of our all', a phrase shared by a friend living with mental health problems, resonates strongly. This statement highlights the fundamental importance of mental health in our lives. It is often overlooked that mental health is something everyone possesses and mentioning this can sometimes draw surprised reactions. There is a frequent misunderstanding between mental health and mental ill-health, with the terms mistakenly used interchangeably.
The meaning of mental health
Mental health refers to the state of our psychological and emotional well-being. It is a vital resource that underpins a healthy life and is a key contributor to overall health. Crucially, mental health is not synonymous with mental illness; rather, it describes a positive state of well-being that enables individuals to thrive. Good mental health affords a person the ability to learn, work effectively, build healthy relationships, manage their emotions, and cope with life's challenges. Furthermore, good mental health is closely linked to physical health, social engagement, and our ability to connect with the wider environment.
The impact of poor mental health
In contrast, poor mental health can precipitate both mental and physical illness. Terms such as mental illness, mental disorder, or mental health condition all refer to health issues that affect a person's thinking, mood, and behaviour, often resulting in distress or impaired functioning. The development of mental disorders is complex, arising from a combination of genetic factors, brain chemistry and structure, and environmental influences such as trauma, stress, and life experiences including abuse, neglect, or isolation. Additional contributors include long-term health conditions, substance use, and early-life exposure to toxins or viruses. There is no single cause, and the interplay of various risk factors results in each person being affected differently.
Socioeconomic pressures such as work-related stress, financial difficulties, and social exclusion can also trigger mental illness. Stressful environments, exposure to violence, and global challenges like economic downturns and climate crises further increase the risk. Biological factors such as genetic predisposition, as well as significant events like bereavement or major life changes, can greatly impact mental health.
Resources and support
While certain situations may be beyond personal control, there are tools and resources available that can help prevent mental illness or manage circumstances that may contribute to it. One such resource is the Resilience Programme, offered free of charge by the Directorate of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. This seven-week online programme is designed to help individuals develop the skills needed to adapt and flourish during challenging times. It is both flexible and engaging and is available in Maltese and English. More information can be found at https://hpdp.gov.mt/form/resilience-programme
Another freely accessible resource is the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) course, provided by the Ministry for Health and Active Ageing within the community. The MHFA course equips participants with the skills and knowledge to support friends, relatives, students, or colleagues facing mental health challenges. For further details or to register, visit https://www.richmond.org.mt/mhfa-in-collaboration-with-ministry-for-health/
Challenges and seeking help
Life events such as addiction, disability, violence, neglect, and domestic abuse can lead to mental health difficulties. Other significant life changes -including dementia, loneliness, pregnancy-related trauma, or relationship issues - may also make coping feel impossible. In these moments, seeking help should be viewed as a sign of strength and resilience, not weakness. Often, people are unsure where to turn during times of need. To address this, the Office of the Commissioner for the rights of persons with mental disorders, has compiled a list of local support helplines and online chats, offering free and timely assistance. The full list is available at https://commissionermentalhealth.gov.mt/en/helplines-apps-chats/
World Mental Health Day: Coming Together
Malta continues to participate in the World Mental Health Day awareness campaign, joining over 150 countries in this global initiative led by the World Health Organisation since 2013. This collective effort both worldwide and nationwide serves as a powerful testament to the importance of coming Together for Mental Health.
Gertrude Buttigieg, officer at the Office of the Commissioner for the Rights of Persons with Mental Disorders