By Gavin Mackintosh And Charlotte Webster-
Mental health issues have become a growing concern in the Western world, with an increasing number of individuals experiencing various levels of distress and mental disorders, including self-esteem, and substance abuse, according to research.
Research has consistently indicated a high prevalence of mental health issues in the Western world. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that one in four people in the Western countries experiences a mental health disorder at some point in their lives. This alarming statistic underscores the significance and scale of the problem.
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The situation appears to be rife in the Uk where various factors affect the mental health of people without their conscious knowledge. Several adults are suffering mental health issues in silence, with a small fraction having what it takes to address it, whilst impacting others with whom they interact.
Frequently screaming parents and teenagers are one of the signs o the mental health epidemic among children in many ways, information obtained from surveying a sample of 500 pupils between the ages of 12 and 14.
In many cases an abusive father or step father, an absent father, adds to the mental woes faced by children who find it very difficult to address their internal woes. Their mental health
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One in five children surveyed by researches said they had a mother who screamed regularly at them, with most stating the mother to be regular consumers of either cannabis or class A drugs.
PR expert and media analyst, Abbi Hoxleigh said: ”It is disturbing that 1 in 5 young people state that they are managing being shouted at regularly. Normalising behaviours that intimidate by their nature rather than provide nurture within families may lead to mental health issues created by lack of control, such as eating disorders or substance abuse. Potentially the may create an ongoing cycle of repeated behaviours passed down from generation to generation, until it is broken.
”A questioning mind and decision-making processes require a level of safe mental headspace to consider options both logically and emotionally. The ability to think independently whilst fearing yet another argument can threaten the stability needed to do make sound choices. Additionally, demonstrating an inability to manage anger can become an inherited mental health issue as young people absorb these negative coping strategies.
”As a Community Mental Health Worker I found that family dynamics and the way members communicate impacts levels of anxiety. Young people rely on role models which makes an upbringing with unhappy, stressed out and emotionally charged relationships a catalyst for accepting and seeking out dysfunctional relationships later in life. The cycle breaks when young people recognise their own behaviours are following repeated patterns and choose to make a change
Working Adults
The situation is worse for none working adults who run out of money relatively easily after spending a high fraction of their limited funds on both substance abuse and running the family. Irrational responses from adults in matters that call for logical thinking, unregulated levels of anger, sustained resentment, and deep levels of sorrow, (from losing a loved one or more than one loved one )are all among the contributors of mental health.
Intense fear about the prospect of losing a partner to a love rival can also spark levels of anger and anxiety that can lead to severe mental health problems in adults.
Generally, teenagers who suffer serious mental health issues approach adulthood with the scars which can be exacerbated by fresh situations they encounter as adults. Anxiety, depression and jealousy, are one of the worst mixes one can have.
Researcher Claire Coleman told The Eye Of Media.Com: ”Thousands of youngsters are suffering mental health epidemic due to lack of adequate love of support from one or both of their parents, in other cases several factors contribute to their poor mental state. Parents, especially men are unaware of the impact they have on children they bring into this world when they are not there to support them emotionally and financially.
”Many of those children go on to inflict their mental health on other children. Other times the infliction occurs at an adult stage in their life.
Researchers say the absence of a father in many cases stresses the mind of the dejected child for much longer than recognised, straining their mental field, and causing them deep pain and resentment.
Ms Coleman added: ”some children have been physically or sexually abused by their father, in some cases, a step father. Other times, it is violence , or both abuse and violence. These tings can have an enormous effect on their mental well being. It calls for professional expertise in communicating with the children and explaining the importance of them overcoming these historic issue sin their lives.
”Many children suffer intense level of hurt just from the realisation that their father is giving birthday and Christmas presents to another child of a woman who is not their mum. Children of absent fathers may feel they are not good enough, and end up being extremely jealous of their peers who are beneficiaries of their father’s gifts” Claire Colman
Relationships also play a crucial role in mental well-being, and strained relationships can significantly impact one’s mental health. Studies have shown that conflicts, breakdowns, or unhealthy dynamics within familial, romantic, or social relationships can contribute to stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders.
Susceptibility
Research suggests that individuals experiencing relationship strains are more susceptible to developing mental health issues due to a lack of support, understanding, and emotional stability. Most of those affected deal with their problems silently, often venting their anger out in various situations.
Family rejection or dejection, particularly during critical stages of development, can have lasting psychological effects.
Research shows that individuals who experience rejection or alienation from their families are at a higher risk of developing mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. The absence of acceptance and love from family members can profoundly impact an individual’s sense of identity, self-worth, and overall emotional well-being.”
Low Self-Esteem and Mental Health
Researcher Coleman commented on low self esteem and how it can affect children’s interest and performance in school.: ”Low self-esteem is closely associated with various mental health issues. Individuals with low self-esteem often struggle with negative self-perceptions, feelings of inadequacy, and a lack of confidence. Research has linked low self-esteem to the development of depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and substance abuse.
”Negative self-beliefs can perpetuate a cycle of self-destructive thoughts and behaviours, further exacerbating mental health challenges.
”Through counselling and tuition, many children overcome some of these set backs and focus on their education, many times doing well enough in their GCSE’s. Some just won’t do well however much they are supported.
Many factors influence low self esteem, including comparing oneself to others, physically and financially. Among teenagers, it is a serious problem.
A high percentage of teenagers in Britain and America suffer serious mental health issues because of their perception of their relative looks which they often keep to themselves.
Children with low self esteem did loving fathers and mothers to help them get through this emotional problems which can be exacerbated by other factors, especially classmates at school.
Low self-esteem and depression often go hand in hand. Negative self-perceptions can contribute to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a general lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities. The persistent negative self-talk and belief that one is unworthy or inadequate can fuel depressive thoughts and emotions.
Low self-esteem can contribute to the development of anxiety disorders. Constant self-doubt and a fear of judgment or failure can create a state of chronic worry and apprehension. Individuals with low self-esteem may experience social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder, or specific phobias related to performance or social interactions.
People with low self-esteem often struggle with forming and maintaining healthy relationships. They may avoid social situations due to fear of rejection or judgment, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. The lack of supportive social connections can exacerbate existing mental health issues and hinder recovery.
Experts also say low self-esteem is often associated with perfectionistic tendencies. The relentless pursuit of flawlessness and the fear of making mistakes can lead to excessive self-criticism and self-imposed pressure. Perfectionism can contribute to anxiety, stress, and burnout, as individuals constantly strive to meet impossibly high standards.
Individuals with low self-esteem may have difficulty effectively coping with life’s challenges. They may lack confidence in their abilities and struggle to assert themselves, leading to difficulties in setting boundaries, managing stress, and seeking help when needed. This can further impact their overall mental well-being.
In many cases, low self-esteem manifests in negative body image and can contribute to the development of eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge eating disorder. The constant dissatisfaction with one’s appearance and the belief that one’s worth is determined by their physical appearance can lead to disordered eating behaviours and significant mental health consequences.
Expression As A Solution
Kezzabelle Ambler , a respected published performance poet driven by a profound passion for curating a secure haven to help heal individuals said to this pubication:
“When facilitating young people in my ‘Weaving Words’ creative writing workshops, I often notice common denominators of lack of self-esteem, continual comparison with their peers, not feeling good enough, often not feeling heard. I have seen such positive changes once young people are encouraged to express themselves creatively in a safe space, guided away from critique and feelings of imperfection.
”It is useful to help affected children in new positive, creative habits that can feel empowering, whether through art, writing, dancing, singing or drama. There’s hope when given ‘Permission To Speak’ and when shown an alternative direction, a way to cope, more importantly allowing a way to show or tell their story through creative expression, the pen can literally become a tool for life.”
Image:youngminds.org.uk
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