Dive deep into the world of mental health with AERCS Therapy’s exclusive mental health webinars series, specially curated for the Academy of Online Learning. AERCS Therapy is thrilled to announce our mental health webinars series led by our founder, Gloria Segovia, MSW RSW, RP, in collaboration with the Academy of Online Learning in Mississauga, will be hosting monthly mental health webinars addressing various mental health topics. These insightful broadcasts will commence on Thursday, August 17th, and continue every second Thursday of the month. The first in our series of mental health webinars with Gloria is titled “Introduction to Mental Health: Understanding Disorders, Challenges, and Promoting Awareness.”
Introduction to Mental Health: Understanding Disorders, Challenges, and Promoting Awareness.
Register here,�https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Q99NWgNWT6KTj-54V0Ffrw
AERCS Therapy believes mental health is just as important as physical health and both are directly related. This duality is the essence of our mental health webinars, starting with Gloria Segovia�s session on August 17th, 2023, wherein she aims to provide an overview of mental health disorders and shed light on some of the most common challenges. She�ll highlight the impact these disorders can have, and how they impair daily functioning, and then she will discuss the significance of mental health awareness and our society�s urgent need to reduce the stigma attached to mental heath.
Understanding Mental Health Disorders
Mental health disorders encompass a broad range of conditions that affect an individual�s emotional and psychological behavior. They can manifest in many forms, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders (such as depression and bipolar disorder), personality disorders, psychotic disorders, and more. These irregularities involve disturbances in thoughts, emotions, perceptions, and behaviors.
Common Challenges Faced by Individuals
Living with a mental health disorder presents numerous challenges. The symptoms experienced can be distressing and debilitating. Anxiety disorders, for instance, can lead to overwhelming fear, making it difficult to engage in everyday activities or even leave the house, or bed. Similarly, depression can cause a persistent feeling of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest, making it challenging to find joy in previously enjoyed activities and affecting overall motivation.
In addition to these symptoms, individuals with mental health disorders often face stigma and discrimination. Unfortunately, due to societal misconceptions and lack of awareness, mental health conditions are still stigmatized, leading to prejudice, judgment, and exclusion. This shame can prevent individuals from seeking help, and hinder their ability to maintain healthy relationships and pursue fulfilling careers.
Impact on Daily Functioning
Mental health disorders can significantly impact daily functioning in all aspects of everyday life. Individuals who suffer from mental health issues may experience difficulties in maintaining relationships with friends, family members, and romantic partners. The emotional and behavioral symptoms associated with mental health disorders can strain these relationships, leading to misunderstandings, conflict, and isolation.
Occupational functioning may also be affected, as individuals may struggle with concentration, decision-making, and overall productivity. This can result in decreased job performance, absenteeism, and even job loss. In severe cases, mental health disorders can interfere with an individual�s ability to engage in day-to-day activities, such as self-care, household chores, and financial management, further exacerbating the challenges they face.
The Importance of Mental Health Awareness
Raising awareness about mental health would help dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding disorders. By educating the public about the biological, psychological, and environmental factors which contribute to these conditions, we could reduce stigma and promote empathy and understanding. Furthermore, mental health awareness encourages individuals to seek help early and access appropriate treatment. When mental health conditions are recognized and addressed promptly, the chances of successful recovery are significantly enhanced. By promoting awareness, we hope to empower individuals to take charge of their own mental health and seek support without fear or shame.
Reducing Stigma: A Collective Effort
Reducing stigma associated with mental health disorders requires a collective effort from individuals and communities, and from society as a whole. It starts with challenging our own biases and preconceptions, becoming educated about mental health, and treating individuals with empathy and respect. By engaging in open and honest conversations about mental health, we can create safe spaces for individuals to share their experiences without judgment. Through education and awareness campaigns, we can debunk myths and foster a more inclusive and compassionate society.
Moreover, mental health professionals, like those at AERCS Therapy, play a vital role in reducing stigma. By providing evidence-based treatments and offering support and guidance, Gloria and her fellow counselors and social workers aim to empower individuals to overcome their challenges and lead more fulfilling lives. Additionally, Gloria is an advocate for governmental policy changes that prioritize mental health services and which would direct funding towards these efforts.
Mental health disorders can significantly impact peoples� lives, as much if not more than physical ailments. Mental issues affect the sufferer�s emotional well-being, relationships, and daily functioning. By promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma, we can create an environment that fosters understanding, acceptance, and support for those facing these challenges. AERCS Therapy is committed to providing you with all the care and resources necessary to navigate your mental health journey. Remember, you�re not alone, and seeking help is a courageous step towards healing and growth. Together we can build a society that prioritizes mental health.
Gloria Segovia, an experienced mental health professional, will share her expertise in our mental health webinars, offering practical strategies for addressing mental health challenges. At the end of each presentation she�ll take questions from viewers. We encourage you to mark your calendars and join us for these valuable sessions, as they offer a good opportunity for learning, growth, and community-building. Together, we can navigate the path toward improved mental health and a brighter future for all Canadians.
