An Overview of Türkiye's Mental Health on World Mental Health Day
Making evaluations within the scope of World Mental Health Day, Altınbaş University Psychology Department Faculty Member Prof. Dr. Dilek Şirvanlı Özen stated that mental problems lie at the basis of many physical diseases.
Economic problems, natural disasters and increasing violence are among the most important factors in this...
When we look at the mental health indicators of our country, we do not see a very encouraging picture. Experts believe that economic difficulties, earthquakes and increasing violence negatively affect the mental health of the country. Making evaluations within the scope of World Mental Health Day, Altınbaş University Psychology Department Faculty Member Prof. Dr. Dilek Şirvanlı Özen stated that mental problems lie at the basis of many physical diseases. She noted that research in this field shows that depression and chronic stress weaken the immune system and make the body more vulnerable. Therefore, she pointed out that protecting mental health is closely related not only to emotional well-being, but also to physical health and our social future. Prof. Dr. Dilek Şirvanlı Özen said, “Although awareness about mental health is increasing in our country, the most important step is to invest more in preventive studies. Protecting our mental health is an important factor that will help us build a stronger society both physically and emotionally.”
“The reason for the increasing incidents of violence is internal distress and aggression”
Referring to the fact that major earthquakes and economic difficulties have left deep scars on our mental health, Şirvanlı Özen said: “While earthquakes cause post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders and depression, recently economic difficulties have also been a common source of stress throughout society. In this process, many people have felt insecure, hopeless and helpless. Increasing street violence, domestic tensions and bullying in schools can be seen as manifestations of these mental states. The internal distress experienced by individuals began to manifest itself in society as aggression and violence.” and gave important warnings.
Beware of unconscious antidepressant use!
Stating that there has been a significant increase in the use of antidepressants in Türkiye in recent years, Şirvanlı Özen said that this increase can be seen as an indication that awareness of mental health problems in society has increased and people are seeking more support. On the other hand, he noted that it is also possible to say that the use of antidepressants has become a “fashion”. In particular, antidepressants have started to be seen as a solution and people have started to turn to these drugs unconsciously. However, he pointed out that it is possible to improve mental health not only with medication, but also with supportive therapies and lifestyle changes.
“Steps should be taken to prevent problems from the very beginning”
Prof. Dr. Dilek Şirvanlı Özen from Altınbaş University made important suggestions on how to protect mental health. She explained that it is not enough to intervene only when problems arise, steps should be taken to prevent problems from the very beginning. Şirvanlı Özen said, “Instead of treating diseases, it is both more effective and easier to prevent them before they occur. Our mental health does not only depend on genetic and biological factors. Many external factors such as our social environment, economic status, educational opportunities, housing conditions and general physical health also shape our mood. Therefore, it is possible to protect mental health by establishing healthy relationships, developing skills to cope with stress and strengthening our emotional intelligence.”