October 11, 2024

All You Need to Know About Mental Illness

Published: October 11, 2024
By: Grit Psychology

All You Need to Know About Mental Illness

What is Mental Illness?

Mental illness is a broad term used to describe a wide range of mental health conditions that affect a person’s mood, thinking, behavior, and overall well-being. These conditions can range from mild to severe and can impact anyone, regardless of age, gender, background, or socioeconomic status. Common types of mental illnesses include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), among others.

At its core, mental illness affects how individuals perceive and respond to the world around them. It can interfere with daily activities, relationships, and the ability to cope with life’s stresses. While each person's experience with mental illness is unique, it is crucial to recognize that mental health is just as important as physical health, and seeking help is a sign of strength—not weakness.

Understanding the Stigma of Mental Illness

One of the significant challenges surrounding mental illness is the stigma attached to it (Liamputtong & Rice, 2021; Fernández et al., 2023). Despite growing awareness, misconceptions and stereotypes about mental health persist, causing many individuals to suffer in silence rather than seek the support they need. This stigma often portrays mental illness as a personal failure or weakness, contributing to shame, isolation, and discrimination.

Stigma can manifest in two primary ways:

  1. Social stigma, which involves negative attitudes and discriminatory behaviors from society at large toward people with mental illness (Liamputtong & Rice, 2021). This can include labeling, stereotyping, or treating individuals with mental health conditions as dangerous, unpredictable, or incapable.
  2. Self-stigma, where individuals internalize these negative attitudes and start to believe they are less worthy or valuable because of their mental health struggles (Fernández et al., 2023). This can lead to feelings of guilt, low self-esteem, and reluctance to seek help.

These harmful perceptions can create barriers to treatment, as people may feel too ashamed or afraid to admit they need support (Liamputtong & Rice, 2021; Fernández et al., 2023). They might worry about how others will perceive them, how their careers will be affected, or even how their families will react. As a result, stigma can delay or prevent early intervention, which is critical in managing mental health conditions effectively (Colizzi et al., 2020).

At Grit Psychology, we work to dismantle these harmful beliefs by encouraging open, empathetic conversations about mental health. We believe that seeking help for mental illness should be as normalized as going to the doctor for a physical condition. Just as a person would seek treatment for diabetes or heart disease, individuals living with mental illness deserve compassionate care and support.

A Holistic Approach to Mental Illness

Mental health is multifaceted, and treating mental illness requires a comprehensive and individualized approach (McQuaid, 2021). At Grit Psychology, we advocate for a holistic method that addresses not just the symptoms of mental illness but the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.

A holistic approach acknowledges that mental health is influenced by various factors, including biological, psychological, social, and environmental elements (McQuaid, 2021). Here are some key aspects of our holistic perspective on mental illness:

1. Psychological Support

Psychological therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based practices, are key evidence-based practices that are effective for many mental health concerns (Kuckertz et al., 2019; Querstret et al., 2020). These therapies focus on changing harmful thought patterns, managing emotional responses, and teaching coping strategies. Through talk therapy, individuals can better understand their thoughts and behaviors, empowering them to regain control over their mental health.

Therapy also provides a safe space for individuals to explore their emotions, traumas, and life challenges in a non-judgmental environment. At Grit Psychology, we work with clients to develop individualized treatment plans tailored to their specific needs, ensuring that their mental health journey is one of growth and empowerment.

2. Physical Health

The mind and body are closely connected, and mental health cannot be separated from physical well-being (Wren-Lewis & Alexandrova, 2021). Factors such as nutrition, exercise, and sleep are critical in how individuals feel emotionally and mentally. Poor diet, lack of exercise, and disrupted sleep can exacerbate mental health conditions, while healthy lifestyle choices can improve mood, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.

At Grit Psychology, we encourage clients to integrate physical health into their mental health care. Simple lifestyle changes, such as regular physical activity, mindful eating, and creating a consistent sleep routine, can significantly improve mental resilience. We can also collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as dietitians or medical doctors, to ensure a well-rounded approach to treatment.

3. Social and Environmental Factors

Mental illness doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Our relationships, work environments, living conditions, and societal expectations all influence mental well-being (Arango et al., 2021). For example, feelings of loneliness or isolation can trigger or worsen symptoms of depression and anxiety. On the other hand, supportive social networks, positive work environments, and healthy boundaries can enhance mental health recovery.

As part of our holistic approach, Grit Psychology encourages clients to examine the social and environmental factors contributing to their mental health challenges. We guide individuals in developing strong support systems, improving communication skills, and establishing healthy boundaries in their relationships. This empowers clients to create an environment that supports their mental well-being.

4. Spiritual and Emotional Well-being

For many people, spirituality or a sense of purpose is vital to their mental health (Yamada et al., 2020). Whether through religion, meditation, connection to nature, or personal reflection, spiritual practices can provide comfort, meaning, and a sense of grounding during difficult times. Addressing emotional well-being involves understanding one’s feelings, learning to process them in healthy ways, and developing emotional resilience.

At Grit Psychology, we recognize the importance of exploring these deeper aspects of self, as they often contribute to a person’s overall sense of peace and fulfillment. We encourage clients to explore practices that foster emotional and spiritual balance, whether through meditation, journaling, or engaging in meaningful activities.

Moving Toward a Healthier Future

Mental illness is complex, but it is treatable. A holistic approach that integrates psychological, physical, social, and emotional factors allows individuals to heal in a more comprehensive and sustainable way. At Grit Psychology, we are committed to providing compassionate care, challenging the stigma surrounding mental health, and helping individuals take meaningful steps toward recovery.

Mental health is not just the absence of illness—it’s a state of well-being in which individuals can realize their potential, cope with normal stresses, work productively, and contribute to their communities. With the right support, people living with mental illness can lead fulfilling, vibrant lives. Let’s continue to break down barriers, promote awareness, and foster environments where mental health is prioritized, and healing is possible for all.


At Grit Psychology, we believe in your strength, your resilience, and your ability to heal. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental illness, don’t hesitate to reach out. Help is here.

References 

Arango, C., Dragioti, E., Solmi, M., Cortese, S., Domschke, K., Murray, R. M., Jones, P. B., Uher, R., Carvalho, A. F., Reichenberg, A., Shin, J. I., Andreassen, O. A., Correll, C. U., & Fusar‐Poli, P. (2021). Risk and protective factors for mental disorders beyond genetics: An evidence‐based Atlas. World Psychiatry, 20(3), 417–436. https://doi.org/10.1002/wps.20894 

Colizzi, M., Lasalvia, A., & Ruggeri, M. (2020). Prevention and early intervention in youth mental health: Is it time for a multidisciplinary and trans-diagnostic model for care? International Journal of Mental Health Systems, 14(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13033-020-00356-9 

Fernández, D., Grandón, P., López-Angulo, Y., Vladimir-Vielma, A., Peñate, W., & Díaz-Pérez, G. (2023). Internalized stigma and self-stigma in people diagnosed with a mental disorder. One concept or two? A scoping review. International Journal of Social Psychiatry, 69(8), 1869–1881. https://doi.org/10.1177/00207640231196749 

Kuckertz, J. M., Silverman, A. L., Bullis, J. R., Björgvinsson, T., & Beard, C. (2019). Awareness of and attitudes toward CBT, DBT, and act in an acute psychiatric sample. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 76(4), 749–768. https://doi.org/10.1002/jclp.22908 

Liamputtong, P., & Rice, Z. S. (2021). Stigma, discrimination, and Social Exclusion. Handbook of Social Inclusion, 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-48277-0_6-2 

McQuaid, R. J. (2021). Transdiagnostic biomarker approaches to mental health disorders: Consideration of symptom complexity, comorbidity and context. Brain, Behavior, & Immunity - Health, 16, 100303. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbih.2021.100303 

Querstret, D., Morison, L., Dickinson, S., Cropley, M., & John, M. (2020). Mindfulness-based stress reduction and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for Psychological Health and well-being in nonclinical samples: A systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Stress Management, 27(4), 394–411. https://doi.org/10.1037/str0000165 

Wren-Lewis, S., & Alexandrova, A. (2021). Mental health without well-being. The Journal of Medicine and Philosophy: A Forum for Bioethics and Philosophy of Medicine, 46(6), 684–703. https://doi.org/10.1093/jmp/jhab032 

Yamada, A.-M., Lukoff, D., Lim, C. S., & Mancuso, L. L. (2020). Integrating spirituality and mental health: Perspectives of adults receiving public mental health services in California. Psychology of Religion and Spirituality, 12(3), 276–287. https://doi.org/10.1037/rel0000260 

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