PAINKILLER: “The Law of Fuck” (Special Edition)

Written by Andi Bazaar, Shawn McKenzie, Hugo-licharré Freimann, José Schenkkan Joseph, Clayton Euridicé Freimann, Yevhn Gertz, Oliver Tydalé Schofield, Henrie Louis Friedrich, Seth Gryffenberg

“Each suicide that happens on this planet is a failure of society and directly on the institutions in place, to die from something treatable because we don’t have anything in place to lessen the cracks in mental health treatment is on all countries worldwide.” — Mark J. Levstein (Co-writer)

In this #WorldMentalHealthDay it is important to remember that putting our well-being first isn’t a selfish act, but one of self-preservation. By stretching ourselves too thin, we end up in a situation where it becomes difficult to take care of ourselves and help others!

As today is “World Mental Health Day” I want to thank you all for giving me a platform and support that allows me to share my knowledge and to learn more about mental health, this would never be possible without all the incredible people who have encouraged me from the beginning!

The reason why I speak about mental health everyday is because everyday so many people suffer irrespective of what good or bad happens in this world. It tends to be forgotten most of the time unless a high profile celebrity opens up about it, then it goes back to darkness.

We can’t forget people around us who suffer, yhe fight for adequate mental health treatment hasn’t happened properly pretty much anywhere in this world. We have to continue bringing awareness, support and funding to make it part of mainstream healthcare even during my bad days or busiest days, I try to post something or start drafting a “poems” because there are so many people who have very few people validating them and fighting for them. That is what brings me purpose in my life and I am so lucky to be able to do this!

Please be kind to yourselves and each other and never be ashamed to speak up and and establish your boundaries for the sake of mental health.

As today is #WorldMentalHealthDay I thought about writing a small topic of things we can implement to improve our wellbeing, there are so many changes that we can make that will lead to many improvements. Let’s dive in!

The main change that we can make is go for treatment. It can be stressful finding a therapist or psychiatrist for medications but chances are we know people who have gone through this who can recommend someone, it is never too late to take that step to get better.

“Each suicide that happens on this planet is a failure of society and directly on the institutions in place, to die from something treatable because we don’t have anything in place to lessen the cracks in mental health treatment is on all countries worldwide.”

⚠️ TRIGGER WARNING ⚠️ “SUICIDE”

A little less than a month ago I checked myself into a mental health hospital because my suicidal ideations had become overwhelming and I felt unsafe, I am writing this because there shouldn’t be a stigma around asking for help.

Here is a story of our contributor experience: José Schenkkan

It was a Sunday and I was lying in bed having intrusive thoughts for at least 4–5 hours, these thoughts are common for me and are a part of living with Depression and OCD. That particular morning the thoughts were especially strong and I felt this impending sense of doom, like I needed to run away.

I purposefully don’t own a gun or have other means to fulfill my ideations in my house so I wasn’t in immediate danger, I also have my spouse who I communicate my thoughts and feelings with so they can help keep me safe.

If you are in a similar situation as I am it is important to have a friend or loved one you feel safe telling these thoughts to. Even though I had these safe guards I still felt very unsafe, it’s hard to describe but it’s like there is a disconnect between the logical part of your brain saying

“things are fine, you aren’t going to hurt yourself, you are alive,” and another side that is irrational ideating on all of the negative dark thoughts. After discussions with my spouse, I decided to check into a mental hospital.

Through this experience I learned that mental hospitals where you get taken for suicide attempts or ideation are for stabilization only, most do not have one-on-one therapy and much of what you will get out of it is the friends you make, group therapy activities and post-care resources they provide.

In my case they set up appointments with your psychiatrist and therapists and had a short call with a loved one for post-care instructions, I stayed there for a week (they decide when you can go) and was likely kept a few more days than what I needed because my health insurance is good so they wanted to get more money from me. The health care system in the U.S. sucks!

I am happy that I took the step to admit myself and I made friends while there, I didn’t gain anything groundbreaking from being there but it did serve its purpose in making me feel safe while I used coping skills to try to help my thinking and took a break from work and social responsibilities. This may have been the first time since high school I was without both my laptop and cell phone for more than a day.

If I’m being honest, I’d say I’m not doing great right now. I have had lingering, increased anxiety since leaving the hospital and have not been able to focus or get fully acclimated to working again. It is getting slowly better and I am still exploring ways to improve my mental health.

If you are facing similar issues to mine please find a therapist (or psychologist) and psychiatrist, as low as I’m feeling right now I logically can see that I would be in a much worse place if I hadn’t taken the steps to get therapy and medications.

It needs to be okay for people to say they need help without worrying about a future employer looking at an old post or Facebook message and thinking “I can’t hire them because they are crazy.” — I understand that not everyone is in a position like I am where they can publicly say these things because of family or work fears and that is okay. You have 0 obligation to publicly talk about your mental health issues, thank you to my friends who have cheered me on during this. It is immensely helpful.

• Thanks to people like Dr Oliver Schofield, Clayton Euridicé Schofield and Timothée Freimann schofield who have lightened my load during this time.
• Thanks to Dr Seth Gryffen and those at the Ethereum Foundation who have supported me and really cared, their support made the stress of losing my job go away.

Talking about these things can help, if you are suicidal and don’t feel safe talking to someone you know here is a list of suicide hotlines you can use:

https://blog.opencounseling.com/suicide-hotlines/

In the past few days, there have been many posts about suicide but so much misinformation. I want to talk about what suicidal ideation means and to debunk certain myths about it.

The first is that suicide is a choice, suicide is not so much “A” choice as it is “the last choice,” for so many people. It is a last resort when everything else doesn’t work out, it is a failure of our societies, a lack of resources and or a price tag to healthcare that is too high.

The fact that suicide rate is so high is one of the biggest failures of humanity, furthermore there is the myth that only depressed people suicide. That’s not true. While depression and suicidal ideation have a strong correlation, it is not absolute. Sometimes, there is an event that is so traumatic or a big stressor that precipitates it.

Another one and I see it a lot especially in religious posts and in certain countries that suicide is a crime and should be treated as such, that’s stupidity on another level. It is like having a physical illness as a crime!

Another myth is that suicidal ideation will lead to suicide, that’s not true at all.

Suicidal ideation can mean that the person wishes they were gone or could do it, but don’t formulate a plan to do so, someone can be suicidal without ever going through with the act.

It is when a plan is formulated that there’s a danger, one myth we often hear about is the idea that “we don’t see it coming.” — that’s not true in many cases!

Many people will reach out and show it in subtle ways, they will use words like farewell, thanking someone for closure, forgiving people, calling a charity to allocate money, etc.

These are some signs that someone is getting “their stuff in order,” before leaving. It is something that can be picked up on when we actively listen and try to understand the person. Finally, suicide is so preventable.

There are so many forms of treatment from medications, to hospitalizations, intense forms of therapy. There is something for everyone, our jobs as friends, colleagues, parents and all that is to pay attention to those around us, reaching out plus looking for signs.

This is something that we can all do a better job at, we need to reduce our suicide rates as much as possible.

Talking about suicide and mental health is important but the words we use can make a difference in reducing stigma and sparking hope, here’s a short explanation on phrases to avoid and what to say instead.

WHY THE WORDS WE USE MATTER WHEN TALKING ABOUT SUICIDE:

Social and perceived stigma can make it hard for people who experience suicidal thoughts to talk about how they’re feeling. To reduce these barriers and encourage access to help, it is important to change the way we speak about suicide. The way we talk about suicidal ideation can encourage people to seek help, be direct when discussing suicidal ideation and have hope to get better.

“why self-diagnosis is valid?” — being against self-diagnosis is classist and racist. the tests required for diagnoses are not, only expensive but also typically done multiple times because they don’t always reflect the situation accurately.

People in poverty can’t afford extensive testing, they can’t afford diagnoses. So even if someone has the funds to pursue a diagnosis, they may encounter discrimination that keeps them from it.

A quick Google search can provide numerous articles that support these claims, mental illness has multiple factors outside of cost and ethnicity that make diagnoses hard to obtain. Very few mental illnesses can be diagnosed via test, they have to be diagnosed based on symptoms. However, many different disorders share the same symptoms.

Furthermore, doctors don’t always listen. It’s actually rather difficult to find a doctor who listens to and acknowledges your issues even when we’ve done our own research, they often dismiss us and our concerns. This applies to both mental and physical Illnesses actually.

“Self-diagnosis is not as harmful as you think, in fact it’s often more reliable than official diagnoses.”

When we talk about self-diagnosis we don’t mean when people flippantly say shit like “omg I’m so bipolar,” because they’re moody.

Most people (including myself) do extensive research to self-diagnose, having a diagnosis helps us handle the illness or disorder. Having a diagnosis can help us cope, as well as open up new opportunities to bond with others who have the same diagnosis. It can explain so much and give us a better idea of how to proceed and improve our lives.

In conclusion, diagnoses are very difficult to obtain for many reasons including outrageous costs and racism in the medical field. So please, do not shame self-diagnosis.

By the way, this article barely scratches the surface of any of these issues, mind you and racism in healthcare is fatal. Specifically against Black women, do your research and spread awareness. Donate to the funds of people who need treatment and contact your politicians.

Stop saying racists need to take their meds or need stronger meds, stop calling racists “crazy,” and stop saying racism is a mental illness.

This also goes for people who perpetuate other types of oppression, when you use mental illness to insult racists or people perpetuating another type of oppression you’re further stigmatizing mental illness and dragging down disabled people in order to dunk on oppressive assholes. That’s not okay, that’s ableist!

Not taking your meds or being under-medicated for a psych condition doesn’t magically make someone racist, plenty of unmedicated or under-medicated mentally ill disabled people manage to not spew oppressive bullshit everywhere.

It’s similar to people who “get racist when they’re drunk,” no, they don’t! They’re always racist, their inhibitions are just lowered while drunk even if someone who is un- or under-medicated is racist etc it’s not because of their mental illness.

There are plenty of other ways to insult oppressive people without dragging down another marginalized or systemically-non-dominant group to do it, stop furthering the oppression of disabled people in your social justice work or discussions.

“why no holding oppressive beliefs or ideas or perpetuating oppression does not?” — in fact, mean that someone has psychopathy:

It is an armchair diagnosis because you can not diagnose people with a mental illness who you are not directly treating as their own licensed mental health professional, additionally it’s inaccurate to say that everyone who has harmful or oppressive beliefs or ideas is psychopathic.

Literally everyone perpetuates and upholds oppression in some manner, no exceptions even you or even me. That does not mean every 100% of humans have psychopathy.

People aren’t racist or misogynistic or queer or transmisic or ableist because they’re mentally ill, these ideas influence and infiltrate every aspect of our society and every system we build. These ideas get passed down or encouraged by a lot of cultural or societal factors.

Someone can be racist and a psychopath,that does not mean racists are psychopaths or that they are racist because they are mentally ill. There are a lot of mentally ill people who are not racist; there are a lot of non-mentally illness people who are racist.

I never said, “people cannot be diagnosed with psychopathy and that we shouldn’t call psychopathy that or that other mental illnesses shouldn’t be called mental illnesses?”

I said, “people need to stop blaming racism and other oppression on mental illness.”

Saying any type of oppression is due to mental illness is simply inaccurate, it allows people to distance themselves from said oppression and avoid recognizing the ways they participate in upholding it or pretend it isn’t their problem because it’s someone else’s fault.

We’re all responsible for working to dismantle systemic oppression not just mentally ill people or whoever the next scapegoat is.

During #MentalIllnessAwarenessWeek, I am committed to uplifting the experiences and ongoing legacy of violence and pathologization of “Black Americans,” at the hands of the mental health system.

Today, Black patients who present with the same symptoms as their white counterparts are more likely to be diagnosed with Schizophrenia. Black Americans are diagnosed 3–4 times more with psychosis than white Americans.

Before the mid-1960s, Schizophrenia was considered a white illness and had no violent connotations. By the late 1960s, it was reframed as a violent disease mainly affecting Black men especially those connected to the “Civil Rights Movement.”

Schizophrenic patients were posed as a threat to society, making it easier to involuntarily commit them to institutions for indefinite period of time.

Black Americans are more likely to be involuntarily committed to psychiatric institutions by the courts, Law enforcement is usually involved in the involuntary commitment process especially in cases where individuals are homeless and or seem “erratic” and “threatening.”

People with mental illnesses are rarely violent but the involvement of law enforcement contributes to the stigma that they are, in reality people with mental illness are 11x more likely to be victims of violence in the general public.

America’s largest mental hospitals are jails *.64% of incarcerated people have mental health conditions *this does not mean there is any “treatment” happening.*

Black Americans are more likely to be incarcerated as a result of mental illness but less likely to receive treatment in prison, there are 3x more people with serious mental illness in American jails and prisons than there are in hospitals.

Americans with untreated mental illness are also 16x more likely to be shot and killed by police. Black Americans with mental illnesses are at the highest risk for fatal police violence of any group.

REST IN POWER

• Ezell Ford: 25 year old disabled man with bipolar, schizophrenia. (Shot by LAPD in 2014.)
• Tanisha Anderson: 37-year-old mother with bipolar. (Killed by Cleveland police in 2015.)
• David Felix: 24-year-old Haitian immigrant with schizophrenia. (Killed by NYPD in 2015.)
• Anthony Hill: 26-year-old veteran with PTSD, bipolar. (Shot by DeKalb, GA police in 2015.)
• Deborah Danner: 66-year-old activist with schizophrenia. (Shot by NYPD in 2016.)
• Alfred Olango: 38-year-old Ugandan refugee in mental distress. (Killed by CA police in 2016.)
• Pamela Turner: 44-year-old grandmother with schizophrenia. (Shot by TX police in 2019.)
• Osaze Osagie: 29-year-old autistic man with schizophrenia. (Shot by PA police in 2019.)

“is that a delusion, i ask myself, my belief that i am worthy of respect and a normal happy life?” — Deborah Danner, 4 years before her murder.

“Mental health crises can be devastating for individuals and their families, developing effective intervention strategies is crucial to prevent harm and provide timely support.”

General Topics

• The Stigma Surrounding Mental Health: Exploring societal attitudes, stereotypes, and the impact they have on young people seeking help.
• The Importance of Early Intervention: Discussing the benefits of early diagnosis and treatment for mental health conditions in youth.
• The Role of Technology and Social Media: Examining the positive and negative effects of technology on mental health, including cyberbullying, social comparison, and online communities.
• Stress and Anxiety in Youth: Exploring common sources of stress and anxiety among young people, and effective coping mechanisms.
• Depression and Suicide Prevention: Discussing the signs, symptoms, and risk factors for depression, and strategies for preventing suicide.

Specific Topic

• Mental Health in Schools: Examining the role of schools in promoting mental health awareness, providing support services, and creating a positive school climate.
• Mental Health and Substance Abuse: Exploring the relationship between mental health conditions and substance abuse, and strategies for prevention and treatment.
• Mental Health and Body Image: Discussing the impact of societal beauty standards on body image and mental health, particularly among young women and girls.
• Mental Health and LGBTQ+ Youth: Examining the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth and the importance of providing supportive environments.
• Mental Health in Developing Countries: Exploring the barriers to accessing mental health care in developing countries and strategies for improving access.

Disclaimer: While I can provide you with general trends and statistics, it’s important to consult the most recent data from reliable sources for the most accurate information. Here are a few key points and sources:

Global Trends

• Prevalence: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in seven 10–19-year-olds experiences a mental disorder, accounting for 13% of the global burden of disease in this age group.
• Common Disorders: Depression, anxiety, and behavioral disorders are among the leading causes of illness and disability among adolescents.

United States Data

• Prevalence: The CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBS) provides data on various mental health indicators among U.S. high school students. For example, in 2021, over 40% of students reported feeling persistently sad or hopeless, while nearly 30% experienced poor mental health.
• Suicide: Suicidal thoughts and behaviors have been on the rise among U.S. youth.

Factors Contributing to Mental Health Issues

• Social Media and Technology: Excessive screen time and exposure to online negativity can contribute to anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances.
• Academic Pressure: High expectations and academic stress can lead to burnout and mental health problems.
• Family and Peer Relationships: Negative family dynamics, bullying, and social isolation can impact mental health.

Resources for Further Research

• World Health Organization (WHO): https://www.who.int/about
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/yrbs/index.html
• The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
• Mental Health America: https://mhanational.org/

Mental Health Data in the USA and UK

United States

• Prevalence: According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), approximately 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience a mental health condition each year. This rate is similar among adolescents.
• Suicide: Suicide is a leading cause of death among young people in the U.S. The CDC reports that approximately 1 in 5 high school students seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year.
• School-Based Mental Health Services: In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on providing mental health services in schools. Many schools now have counselors, psychologists, and other mental health professionals on staff.

United Kingdom

• Prevalence: The Mental Health Foundation estimates that 1 in 4 adults in the UK experience a mental health problem.
• Youth Mental Health: The YoungMinds charity reports that 1 in 6 young people aged 16–24 experience a mental health condition.
• NHS Mental Health Services: The National Health Service (NHS) provides a range of mental health services in the UK, including talking therapies, medication, and crisis support.

General Topics

• The impact of social media on youth mental health
• The effectiveness of different treatment approaches
• The role of cultural factors in mental health
• The challenges of accessing mental health services

Specific Topics

• Mental health stigma and discrimination
• The role of schools in promoting mental health
• The experiences of marginalized groups (e.g., LGBTQIA+ youth, ethnic minorities)
• The impact of economic inequality on mental health

Mental Health in the US and UK: A Deeper Dive

The Impact of Social Media on Youth Mental Health

• Research Findings: Numerous studies have linked excessive social media use to increased rates of depression,anxiety, and sleep disturbances among young people.
• Comparison to Face-to-Face Interactions: Research suggests that social media can be less effective than face-to-face interactions for building and maintaining healthy relationships, which are crucial for mental well-being.
• Negative Comparisons: Constant exposure to carefully curated online profiles can lead to feelings of inadequacy and social comparison.
• Cyberbullying: Online harassment and bullying can have a significant negative impact on mental health.

The Effectiveness of Different Treatment Approaches

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a widely used approach that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. Research has shown it to be effective for treating various mental health conditions,including depression and anxiety.
• Medication: Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can be helpful for managing symptoms of certain mental health conditions. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment.
• Mindfulness-Based Interventions: Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and yoga, can help reduce stress,improve mood, and enhance overall well-being.
• Interpersonal Therapy: This approach focuses on improving interpersonal relationships, which can be beneficial for individuals experiencing depression or anxiety related to social difficulties.

The Role of Cultural Factors in Mental Health

• Cultural Stigma: In some cultures, mental health conditions may be stigmatized or seen as a sign of weakness.This can discourage individuals from seeking help.
• Cultural Differences in Expression: Different cultures may have varying ways of expressing and experiencing mental health symptoms.
• Cultural Beliefs About Mental Health: Cultural beliefs about the causes and treatment of mental health conditions can influence attitudes towards seeking help.

The Challenges of Accessing Mental Health Services

• Cost: The cost of mental health treatment can be a significant barrier for many people, especially in countries without universal healthcare.
• Availability: In some areas, there may be a shortage of mental health professionals or limited access to specialized treatment.
• Stigma: Fear of stigma can prevent individuals from seeking help.
• Waitlists: Long waitlists for mental health services can be frustrating and exacerbate symptoms.

The Experiences of Marginalized Groups in Mental Health

Marginalized groups often face unique challenges related to their identity and social status, which can have a significant impact on their mental health. Here are some key areas to consider:

LGBTQIA+ Youth

• Stigma and Discrimination: LGBTQIA+ youth are more likely to experience discrimination and bullying, which can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression.
• Minority Stress: The chronic stress of navigating societal expectations and discrimination can have a negative impact on mental health.
• Higher Rates of Mental Health Conditions: LGBTQIA+ youth have higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide compared to their heterosexual and cisgender peers.
• Access to Care: LGBTQIA+ youth may face barriers in accessing mental health services, such as a lack of culturally competent providers and fear of discrimination.

Ethnic Minorities

• Discrimination and Racism: Experiences of racism and discrimination can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Cultural Barriers: Cultural beliefs and values can influence attitudes towards mental health and seeking help.
• Language Barriers: Language barriers can make it difficult for individuals from ethnic minorities to access mental health services.
• Economic Disadvantage: Economic disadvantage can contribute to mental health problems, and individuals from ethnic minorities may be more likely to face economic hardship.

Intersectionality

• Multiple Marginalized Identities: Individuals who belong to multiple marginalized groups (e.g., LGBTQIA+ people of color) may face even greater challenges and discrimination.
• Compounding Effects: The intersection of multiple marginalized identities can lead to a unique set of stressors and mental health challenges.

Strategies for Supporting Marginalized Groups

• Culturally Competent Services: Providing mental health services that are culturally sensitive and inclusive can help address the needs of marginalized groups.
• Safe Spaces: Creating safe and welcoming environments can help marginalized youth feel supported and connected.
• Peer Support Groups: Peer support groups can provide a sense of belonging and understanding for individuals who share similar experiences.
• Advocacy and Policy Change: Advocating for policy changes that address systemic inequalities can help create a more equitable and supportive environment for marginalized groups.

The Role of Cultural Factors in Mental Health

Cultural factors can significantly influence how individuals perceive, experience and express mental health conditions. Here are some key considerations:

Cultural Stigma

• Negative Attitudes: Many cultures have negative attitudes towards mental health, often associating it with weakness, shame, or a lack of willpower.
• Fear of Stigma: Fear of stigma can prevent individuals from seeking help or disclosing their mental health struggles.
• Cultural Beliefs: Cultural beliefs about the causes and treatment of mental health conditions can influence attitudes towards seeking help.

Cultural Differences in Expression

• Somatization: In some cultures, mental health symptoms may be expressed physically, leading to somatic complaints like headaches or stomach aches.
• Emotional Expression: Different cultures may have varying ways of expressing emotions, which can impact how mental health conditions are perceived and diagnosed.
• Cultural Expectations: Cultural expectations about how individuals should behave can influence the development and expression of mental health symptoms.

Cultural Beliefs About Mental Health

• Spiritual or Supernatural Causes: Some cultures attribute mental health problems to spiritual or supernatural causes, leading to reliance on traditional healing practices.
• Family Dynamics: Cultural beliefs about family roles and responsibilities can influence how mental health conditions are perceived and addressed.
• Individualism (vs) Collectivism: Cultural values related to individualism or collectivism can impact how individuals cope with mental health challenges.

Strategies for Addressing Cultural Factors

• Culturally Competent Services: Providing mental health services that are culturally sensitive and inclusive can help address the needs of individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Cultural Brokers: Utilizing cultural brokers (individuals who are familiar with both the culture of the client and the mental health system) can help bridge communication gaps and improve access to care.
• Community-Based Programs: Supporting community-based programs that address mental health needs within specific cultural contexts can help reduce stigma and improve access to care.

The Challenges of Accessing Mental Health Services

• Cost: The cost of mental health treatment can be a significant barrier for many people, especially in countries without universal healthcare.
• Availability: In some areas, there may be a shortage of mental health professionals or limited access to specialized treatment.
• Stigma: Fear of stigma can prevent individuals from seeking help.
• Waitlists: Long waitlists for mental health services can be frustrating and exacerbate symptoms.
• Language Barriers: Language barriers can make it difficult for individuals to access mental health services,especially in areas with limited bilingual providers.
• Transportation: Lack of transportation can be a barrier for individuals living in rural or remote areas.
• Childcare: Finding childcare can be challenging for parents seeking mental health treatment.

The Impact of Economic Inequality on Mental Health

Economic inequality can have a profound impact on mental health, both at the individual and societal level. Here are some key factors to consider:

Stress and Financial Hardship

• Financial Stress: The constant worry about making ends meet can lead to chronic stress and anxiety.
• Debt and Foreclosure: Financial difficulties, such as debt and foreclosure, can have a devastating impact on mental health.
• Job Insecurity: The fear of job loss or unemployment can contribute to stress and anxiety.

Social Isolation and Discrimination

• Social Exclusion: Economic inequality can lead to social isolation and exclusion, as individuals may feel unable to participate in social activities or afford basic necessities.
• Discrimination: Individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may face discrimination and prejudice, which can contribute to feelings of inferiority and shame.
• Limited Opportunities: Economic inequality can limit access to education, employment, and other opportunities,which can further exacerbate mental health problems.

Health Disparities

• Access to Healthcare: Individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may have limited access to healthcare,including mental health services.
• Poor Health Outcomes: Economic inequality is associated with higher rates of chronic diseases and other health problems, which can contribute to mental health issues.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to environmental toxins and stressors can also have a negative impact on mental health.

Societal Factors

• Inequality-Related Stress: The broader societal context of economic inequality can contribute to feelings of hopelessness, anger, and despair.
• Social unrest: Economic inequality can lead to social unrest and political instability, which can further exacerbate mental health problems.

Strategies for Addressing the Impact of Economic Inequality on Mental Health

• Economic Policies: Implementing policies that promote economic equality, such as progressive taxation and investments in education and job training, can help reduce the impact of economic inequality on mental health.
• Social Safety Nets: Providing social safety nets, such as food assistance, affordable housing, and healthcare, can help alleviate financial hardship and reduce stress.
• Mental Health Services: Investing in accessible and affordable mental health services can help individuals cope with the challenges of economic inequality.
• Community-Based Programs: Supporting community-based programs that address the social and economic determinants of health can help improve mental health outcomes.

The Impact of Depression on Mental Health

Depression, a prevalent mental health condition, can have a profound and far-reaching impact on an individual’s overall well-being. While the specific effects may vary from person to person, some common consequences include:

Emotional and Cognitive Effects:

• Persistent sadness or emptiness: A pervasive feeling of hopelessness and despair.
• Loss of interest or pleasure: A diminished ability to enjoy activities that were once pleasurable.
• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness: Negative self-beliefs and self-blame.
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions: Impaired cognitive function.
• Irritability or restlessness: Increased agitation and frustration.
• Thoughts of death or suicide: In severe cases, suicidal ideation.

Physical Effects:

• Changes in appetite or weight: Either overeating or loss of appetite.
• Sleep disturbances: Insomnia or excessive sleepiness.
• Fatigue or low energy: Constant tiredness and lack of motivation.
• Aches and pains: Physical discomfort without a clear medical cause.
• Digestive problems: Constipation, diarrhea, or heartburn.

Behavioral Effects:

• Social withdrawal: Avoiding social interactions and isolating oneself.
• Substance abuse: Turning to alcohol or drugs to cope with negative emotions.
• Increased risk of chronic illnesses: Depression is linked to a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other physical health conditions.

Data and Specifics:

• Prevalence: Depression is a widespread condition, affecting millions of people worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression is one of the leading causes of disability.
• Impact on Quality of Life: Depression can significantly impair an individual’s quality of life, affecting their relationships, work or school performance, and overall well-being.
• Economic Burden: Depression imposes a substantial economic burden on individuals, families, and societies.It can lead to lost productivity, increased healthcare costs, and even premature death.

It’s important to note that these are just some of the potential impacts of depression. The severity and duration of symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression, it’s essential to seek professional help. There are effective treatments available, including therapy and medication, that can help manage the condition and improve quality of life.

Depression can affect the immune system

Yes, depression can significantly affect the immune system. Research has shown a strong connection between these two conditions.

Here’s how depression can impact the immune system:

• Increased inflammation: Depression is often associated with chronic low-grade inflammation, which can weaken the immune system’s ability to fight off infections and diseases.
• Altered immune cell function: Depression can cause changes in the structure and function of immune cells, making them less effective at combating pathogens.
• Stress hormones: Depression can lead to increased levels of stress hormones like cortisol, which can suppress the immune system.
• Sleep disturbances: Depression often disrupts sleep patterns, which can further weaken the immune system.

As a result of these factors, individuals with depression are more susceptible to infections, chronic illnesses, and other health problems. It’s important to address both mental and physical health needs to improve overall well-being.

Preventing Depression: Tips and Strategies

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent depression, many strategies can help reduce your risk and promote mental well-being. Here are some effective approaches:

Lifestyle Changes:

• Regular exercise: Physical activity can boost mood, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality.
• Healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in nutrients can support overall health and mental well-being.
• Adequate sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night.
• Stress management techniques: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to manage stress.
• Social connection: Maintain strong relationships with friends and family.
• Limit alcohol and drug use: Excessive substance use can contribute to depression.

Seeking Help:

• Therapy: Talking to a therapist can provide valuable support and coping strategies.
• Medication: In some cases, medication may be helpful in managing symptoms.
• Support groups: Connecting with others who have experienced depression can be beneficial.

Early Intervention:

• Recognize warning signs: Be aware of early symptoms of depression, such as persistent sadness, loss of interest,and changes in appetite or sleep.
• Seek help promptly: If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.

Remember, prevention is key. By taking proactive steps to promote mental health and address potential risk factors, you can significantly reduce your chances of developing depression.

Stress Management Techniques

Here are some effective stress management techniques you can incorporate into your daily routine:

Relaxation Techniques:

• Deep breathing: Focus on taking slow, deep breaths, expanding your belly and chest.
• Meditation: Practice mindfulness and focus on the present moment.
• Progressive muscle relaxation: Tense and relax different muscle groups in your body.
• Guided imagery: Visualize yourself in a peaceful and relaxing setting.

Physical Activity:

• Exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce stress and improve mood.
• Yoga: Combining physical poses with breathing exercises can be particularly beneficial.

Time Management:

• Prioritize tasks: Focus on completing the most important tasks first.
• Set realistic goals: Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
• Learn to say no: Don’t overcommit yourself.

Social Support:

• Connect with others: Spend time with friends and family.
• Join a support group: Connect with people who understand your experiences.

Healthy Lifestyle:

• Get enough sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night.
• Eat a balanced diet: Nourish your body with healthy foods.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol: These substances can contribute to stress and anxiety.

By incorporating these techniques into your daily life, you can effectively manage stress and improve your overall well-being.

A Challenge in Data Analysis: Depression as a Contributing Factor

While it’s possible to find data on the global prevalence of depression and its associated burden of disease, directly attributing deaths solely to depression can be challenging.

Here’s why:

1. Comorbidity: Depression often co-occurs with other mental and physical health conditions. Determining the exact cause of death can be complex when multiple factors are involved.
2. Indirect Causes: Depression can lead to indirect consequences, such as substance abuse or suicide, which are often listed as the immediate cause of death.
3. Data Limitations: Gathering accurate and comprehensive data on mental health conditions, particularly in low-income countries, can be difficult.

Global Burden of Disease Studies

However, we can look at global burden of disease studies to get a sense of depression’s impact. These studies often rank diseases and conditions based on their impact on health loss, measured in disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).Depression consistently ranks high in these studies, indicating its significant global health burden.

For more specific data, you might consider exploring the following resources:

• World Health Organization (WHO): The WHO publishes regular reports on global mental health, including data on depression prevalence and impact.
• Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Project: This project provides comprehensive data on health loss from various causes, including mental health conditions.
• National health statistics offices: Many countries have national health statistics offices that collect and analyze data on mortality and morbidity.

Let’s Explore Global Depression Data

To provide the most relevant and up-to-date information, please specify a region or country you’d like to focus on.

Here are some potential areas of interest:

• Global: A general overview of depression’s impact worldwide.
• Specific regions: For instance, you could explore the situation in Europe, Asia, or the Americas.
• Individual countries: If you have a particular country in mind, we can delve into its specific statistics and challenges.

Once you provide a more specific focus, I can help you find relevant data and resources.

Here are some potential sources to consider:

• World Health Organization (WHO): The WHO publishes regular reports on global mental health, including data on depression prevalence and impact.
• Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Project: This project provides comprehensive data on health loss from various causes, including mental health conditions.
• National health statistics offices: Many countries have national health statistics offices that collect and analyze data on mortality and morbidity.

Developing Mental Health Crisis Intervention Strategies

Mental health crises can be devastating for individuals and their families. Developing effective intervention strategies is crucial to prevent harm and provide timely support.

Here are some key components to consider when developing mental health crisis intervention strategies:

1. Early Identification and Assessment:
2. Train staff: Educate healthcare providers, teachers, and community members to recognize signs of a mental health crisis.
3. Implement screening tools: Use standardized screening tools to identify individuals at risk.
4. Conduct comprehensive assessments: When a crisis is suspected, conduct a thorough assessment to understand the individual’s needs and triggers.

2. Crisis Response Teams:

• Establish dedicated teams: Create multidisciplinary teams comprised of mental health professionals, social workers, and medical personnel.
• Provide training: Ensure team members are trained in crisis intervention techniques, de-escalation strategies, and suicide prevention.
• Develop protocols: Establish clear protocols for responding to mental health crises, including procedures for assessment, intervention, and referral.

3. Crisis Stabilization Centers:

• Provide immediate care: Establish safe and supportive environments where individuals in crisis can receive immediate care and stabilization.
• Offer a range of services: Provide services such as crisis counseling, medication management, and temporary housing.
• Ensure continuity of care: Facilitate the transition to ongoing mental health treatment after stabilization.

4. Community-Based Support Systems:

• Develop support networks: Foster strong relationships between mental health providers, community organizations, and law enforcement.
• Promote awareness: Educate the community about mental health and the importance of seeking help during a crisis.
• Offer peer support groups: Provide opportunities for individuals to connect with others who have experienced similar challenges.

5. Crisis Hotlines and Text Lines:

• Establish accessible lines: Provide 24/7 crisis hotlines and text lines.
• Train volunteers: Ensure volunteers are adequately trained in crisis intervention and suicide prevention.
• Offer multilingual services: Provide services in multiple languages to reach a diverse population.

6. Data Collection and Evaluation:

• Track outcomes: Collect data on the effectiveness of crisis intervention strategies.
• Evaluate protocols: Regularly review and update protocols based on data analysis.
• Identify areas for improvement: Use data to identify gaps in services and areas for improvement.

By implementing these strategies, communities can provide timely and effective support to individuals experiencing mental health crises, reducing the risk of harm and improving outcomes.

Preventing Suicide: Resources in the United States

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help immediately. Here are some resources available in the United States:

Crisis Hotlines:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 to connect with a crisis counselor.
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741.

Online Resources:

• The Trevor Project: Provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ+ youth.
• The Jed Foundation: A nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the mental health of college students.
• The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP): Offers information, resources, and support for those affected by suicide.

Local Resources:

• Mental health clinics and hospitals: Many communities have local mental health facilities that offer crisis intervention and treatment services.
• Support groups: Connecting with others who have experienced similar challenges can provide comfort and support.

Remember, you are not alone. There is help available, and seeking support is a sign of strength.

Finding Local Resources for Suicide Prevention

To find specific resources in your area, you can use the following methods:

1. Online Search:
2. Google Search: Simply search for “suicide prevention resources in Cilacap, Central Java” or a similar query.
3. Crisis Text Line website: Visit their website (crisistextline.org) and use their resource finder to locate local crisis hotlines and support groups.
4. Local Mental Health Associations:
5. Contact your local mental health association or community health center: They can provide information on available services and support groups.
6. Emergency Services:
7. Call 112: In case of an immediate crisis, dial 112 for emergency assistance.

If you’re concerned about someone who may be at risk of suicide, here are some signs to watch for:

• Talking about suicide or death
• Giving away personal belongings
• Making a will or final arrangements
• Sudden changes in mood or behavior
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs
• Feeling hopeless or helpless

Remember, it’s important to take these signs seriously and seek help immediately. By reaching out to a crisis hotline or mental health professional, you can provide support and potentially save a life.

A SPECIAL THANKS TO:

Andi Bazaar (Writer)

Mark J. Levstein (Co-Editor)

Yevhn Gertz (Director of Photography/Co-writer)

dr Oliver Schofield MD (Consulting/Co-writer)

dr Seth Gryffenberg MD (Consulting/Co-writer)

dr Khaan, MD (Consulting)

Timothée Freimann schofield (Photographed)

Clayton Euridicé Schofield (Editor/Journalist/Co-writer)

Scott Wynné Schofield (Publicist)

Henrie Louis Friedrich (Analyst/Co-writer)

Jwan Höffler Conwall (Art Interior Design)

Hugo-licharré Freimann (Ass Director/Co-writer)

Shot at GQ’s Studios by José Schenkkan (Co-writer) and Benjamin Schenkkan Joseph

In appearance by “Andi Bazaar” (Model) / “Hugo-licharré Freimann” (Model) / “Pierro-lucca Freimann Schofield” (Model)

Thanks to “Shawn McKenzie” (Co-writer)

In collaboration with “The Me You Can’t See UK” (TMYCSUK) / @tmycsuk