Approaching Midnight: The Urgent Call for Mental Health Awareness

While some of us are welcoming the new year with our hopes recharged, this is not commonplace for many. This past week we woke up with the sad news that a Portuguese actress killed herself, 47 years old. The following day, a DJ and model acquainted with my brother did the same, at 38 years old. This was a reminder of a harsh truth – over 700,000 people globally take their own lives each year, averaging to one person every 40 second . This figure is not just a number; it represents individuals from all walks of life, leaving behind loved ones and communities. The same source (World Health Organization) brings additional troublesome news, for each successful event, the probability goes that at least 20 are attempted. And it continues, it is the fourth major cause of death in people between 15 and 29 years old.

This data on suicide is more than a mere statistic; it’s a reflection of the profound struggles that individuals face with mental health issues. Mental health conditions, ranging from depression and anxiety to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, can be debilitating, yet they often remain invisible.

The societal stigma surrounding mental health exacerbates the problem, preventing many from seeking the help they need. Stigma and silence around mental health issues are significant barriers to seeking help. Many cultures and societies still view mental illness as a sign of weakness or a personal failing. This perception leads to shame and isolation for those suffering, further aggravating their conditions. Breaking this cycle of stigma and silence is imperative for creating a more supportive environment for mental health.

Preventing suicide starts with recognizing the early signs of mental health struggles. Family, friends, educators, and employers can play a crucial role in noticing changes in behavior, mood, or social withdrawal. Early intervention, through counseling, therapy, or medical treatment, can be life-saving. It’s vital to promote mental health education and awareness in schools, workplaces, and communities to foster a culture of support and understanding. It still dazzles me to see people in leadership positions (does not matter if it is a formal role or not) in total oblivion about what is happening with their staff. I have seen it with my own eyes, and yet I can not understand how it is possible.

Access to mental health services is a critical component in addressing this crisis. Unfortunately, many countries lack adequate mental health facilities, and in places where they are available, the cost can be prohibitive. For instance, in Portugal, mental health is still seen as a luxury to many, making therapy a thing of an elite group. Governments and health organizations must prioritize mental health care, ensuring it is accessible and affordable for everyone. This includes investing in mental health professionals, facilities, and community-based programs.

While we wait for proper governmental decisions, creating a supportive community environment where individuals feel safe to express their struggles is crucial. This involves education, open conversations, and activities that promote mental well-being. Community support groups, helplines, and online forums can offer invaluable resources and a sense of belonging for those feeling isolated.

Organizations, no matter their size, can have a say in this as well. We, as leaders, should create an environment where mental health is openly discussed. This involves breaking down the stigma and encouraging conversations about well-being. By sharing our own experiences or challenges, we can set a precedent of openness and vulnerability. It will make it easier for our employees to speak up.

Additionally, it is highly relevant to ensure that all our staff, especially those in middle management, are trained to recognize the signs of mental health struggles. Even though most people in those positions are not mental health-trained professionals, they can offer support in managing workload and provide resources or adjustments when necessary. We only can do that much, but at least every leader should do their part. When someone from the “inside” makes the hard decision to terminate their life, it takes a toll on the entire organization. I have witnessed it and it does not look good.

On my behalf, I will keep raising awareness of stress and anxiety-related subjects.

So, here’s to a new year with, hopefully, a different swan song.

Yours truly,

Ricardo Castelhano