Mental health crisis is escalating

Mental health issues have reached unprecedented levels this year and I think it is fair to say we are in a time of crisis – not just in the UK – but globally. The escalating numbers of people struggling with mental issues in our post-Covid society is sad and upsetting to say the least. Furthermore, our healthcare professionals are now taking strain under the increased burden of more patients.?

According to reports by Digital NHS as well as stats shared by the Mental Health Foundation

• 1.54 million people were in contact with mental health services at the end of January 2022.?
• More than 400 000 children are being treated for mental health problems currently.?
• Major depression is the second leading cause of disability worldwide and a major contributor to the burden of suicide and ischemic heart disease.?
• Stress is a major contributing factor to mental health problems with 51% of adults who felt stressed, reported feeling depressed and 61% reported feeling anxious.?
• Of those who had felt stress at some point in their lives, 16% had self-harmed, and 32% said they had had suicidal thoughts and feelings.?

The increasing burden on the NHS and medical services worldwide is worrying. Besides the issue of healthcare professionals dealing with stress and burnout due to staff shortages and increased pressure, they are also having to deal with figuring out how best to help their mental health patients. The amount of patients admitted with mental health issues has increased to such a degree that bed shortages have even become a problem.

At enferm we are working hard to address the issues that affect health professionals and to find a way to alleviate their burdens. We need to take care of those who are taking care of us - it is our highest priority.

On a personal level, I believe we can all start small in our circle of influence and try to make a difference in the lives of others by offering friendship, support, a listening ear over a cup of coffee or an encouraging email or whatsapp message.

As we mark and recognise World Mental Health Day which took place this week, check in with those you know and love. Most of the time we have no idea of the inner struggles and battles that others are facing. Your message and time spent could make a huge impact on someone living with fear, anxiety, depression and more.