November 2004 - Tower - Page 7
Notes From the
Bette C. Jones, RN
|
MENTAL HEALTH and MENTAL ILLNESS
Mental health refers to the
way a person adjusts to self,
others and community. It is the way a
person thinks, interacts and behaves.
Mentally healthy individuals have a positive
attitude, feel good about themselves and
others, and act responsibly in relationships.
Mental illnesses are often caused by
complex biological, environmental, social
and cultural factors, which interfere with an
individual's ability to meet the demands of
life.
- •More than 40 million Americans of all
ages and backgrounds suffer from a
mental illness
- •One in every four families will have a
mentally ill member.
- •Mental illness is the most prevalent
health problem in America today.
- •Fear, prejudice, stigma and
misunderstanding prevent many
families from seeking help for a loved
one with mental illness.
- •People with mental illness and their
families need your understanding
and support. Most mental illnesses
are treatable.
What can we, as members of the church of
Jesus Christ, do? PRAY!!
- •Pray that eyes will be opened to the
needs of persons with mental illness
and their families and that we can
support those needs.
- •Intercede in prayer for specific
church members who have a mental
illness.
- •Pray that the family members and
other care givers of persons with a
mental illness will be strengthened
and encouraged.
- •Pray for research and the increase in
knowledge to help those with mental
illness.
- •Pray for adequate community
resources to meet the needs of
persons with mental illness.
- •Pray for safe and healthy
communities.
- •Pray for understanding and proper
compassion.
- •Pray for a right attitude toward those
with mental illness.
(Statistical information taken from Norfolk
Community Service Board)