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The Global Mental Breakdown – A much deadlier pandemic that is overtaking the world

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4 years ago

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BY SIMONE J. SMITH

COVID-19 has provided our world with some firsts: it is the first global pandemic of the social media age, and it is the first of the alternative stories era, occurring at a time when politics and society are in a state of flux. With everything that is going on, it is no wonder that our world is slowly going crazy. It is why mental health discussions are of utmost importance. The WHO estimates that the economic loss due to mental health challenges could be about 1.03 trillion between the years of 2012-2030.

Researchers found that one in five adults developed pandemic-related mental disorders. The individuals most impacted by mental health issues were infected/recovered individuals (30%), followed by healthcare providers (20%), adults in the community (16%), and quarantined adults (12%).

What is causing such a rise in mental health challenges? Devora Kestel, (Director of the World Health Organization’s Mental Health Department), presented information that many of us know, but it is still worth mentioning. She stated that it was: the isolation, the fear, the uncertainty, the economic turmoil – they are all causes for psychological distress.

The mental health and well-being of global societies have been severely impacted by this crisis and are a priority to be addressed urgently. Reports have highlighted several regions and sections of societies as vulnerable to mental distress. These sections include: children and young people isolated from friends and school, and healthcare workers who are seeing thousands of patients infected with and dying from the coronavirus.

Everyday, there are emerging studies and surveys that show COVID-19’s impact on mental health globally. What I wanted to do with this article is present information from all over the globe, showing just how devastating this pandemic has been, not to our physical health, but to our mental health.

Rates of suicides, overdoses, and poor mental health are popping up all over the world, not just in North America. What was interesting, was the trend that I observed during my research. The information presented separately is impactful, but when you see numbers collectively, a different picture is painted; a picture that if used as a Rorschach inkblot test, could only be interpreted in a negative way.

Hispanic and Caribbean Regions
The Afro-Caribbean and Hispanic communities are communal in nature, so the physical distancing has had devastating effects on how these communities live their day-to-day lives. According to a study put out at Cambridge.Org, more than 900,000 older adults will not be able to participate in government-run programs aimed to facilitate physical and mental health. This reduction of mobility and not being able to go to social and cultural activities has had a direct impact on their physical and mental well-being.

It was also found that patients with Alzheimer dementia and other dementia disorders are at higher risk to suffer from social isolation and the related stress that comes with living through this pandemic. Individuals with AD have lower stress coping abilities, and are facing difficulties adjusting to changes in their routine caused by social isolation and restrictions.

A fact that cannot go understated is the impact that this has on the caregivers of those individuals suffering with mental health challenges. Due to the closedown of local supporting services, caregivers have experienced increased physical and emotional overload. Although this was observed in Caribbean and Hispanic countries, that fact remains true on a global scale.

United Kingdom
I found research that highlighted what was occurring with young people in the UK. In a study presented on Mental Health.org, teenager’s mental health appears to be under severe pressure as the pandemic continues.

The report was released on January 31st, 2021, and it found that 27% of British teenagers said they felt nervous, anxious, or on the edge most or nearly all the time. 26% of the teenagers surveyed said they had trouble concentrating on things like schoolwork, reading and watching TV. Across all the teenagers surveyed in this study, their rating of their own mental health has worsened over the course of the pandemic.

Hindu Times put out an article detailing how mental health of Indians in the UK had been hit hard during the pandemic. The study found that mental health deteriorated across most ethnic groups during lockdown but was most marked in the Indian group. Money worries and savings seemed to be the dominating factors behind the mental well-being impact. Most ethnic minorities in the UK also tend to work in more precarious jobs, including on the frontlines in hospital wards, making them more vulnerable to burnout, and stress.

Africa
There was no way that I could tackle this entire continent, so I focused on some interesting studies found in Uganda and South Africa.

Here is an interesting fact; there is only one trained psychiatrist for every one million Ugandans. With an estimated nine million Ugandans dealing with a mental health issue, the majority of whom remain undiagnosed and untreated; it is predicted that this number will rise exponentially with this on-going pandemic (All Africa.com).

The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) reports that they have never experienced such a surge in clients (Iol.co.za). Call volumes have more than doubled during the lockdown, with anxious and depressed South Africans seeking help desperately.

Although we all ushered in the New Year with hopes of better times, the promise of the New Year hasn’t eased worries and fears. SADAG reported that a large number of these calls have been from people contemplating suicide because of the extended period of loneliness and isolation during the lockdown. SADAG conducted a survey that found two-thirds of South Africans said their mental health worsened during lockdown, and some experienced suicidal thoughts.

Portugal
A lot of the same mental health challenges that have popped up in the countries noted earlier in this article, have also been found in Portugal. A great many citizens in Portugal have had to cope with COVID related stress, anxiety, loneliness, fear, depression, and anger.

Some other symptoms reported included: changes in appetite, energy and interests. Some people are having difficulty concentrating, making decisions or sleeping. Headaches, body pains, stomach problems and skin rashes are among the physical reactions to worsening mental conditions (Portuguese American Journal).

According to a leading Portuguese psychologist, Francisco Miranda Rodrigues, there are only 2.5 mental health professionals per 100,000 people in Portugal.

Australia
The mental health of three out of four Australians has been affected by COVID-19 as concern for the future, stress and anxiety remains a silent killer (SMH.com). 40% say that they feel uncertain about the future, a third feel stressed out, and 27% say they feel more anxious during the pandemic. What is unfortunate is that a fifth of those experiencing mental health symptoms said they did not seek support. The stigma seems to have been the barrier.

Japan
The most disturbing statistics came out of Japan. Far more Japanese people are dying of suicide, likely exacerbated by the economic and social repercussions of the pandemic. What is interesting is that Japan has managed its coronavirus epidemic far better than many nations, keeping deaths below 2,000 nationwide, provisional statistics from the National Police Agency show suicides surged to 2,153 in October alone, marking the fourth straight month of increase (Japan Times). To date, more than 17,000 people have taken their own lives this year in Japan. October self-inflicted deaths were up 600 year on year, with female suicides, about a third of the total, surging over 80%.

Now, I was only able to visit a few countries, and I can imagine that if I had kept going, I would have found very similar data and reports.

This leads us to a very important question; what are we going to do about it? How are we going to heal the world? Future research will be needed to better understand the short and long-term psychological impact of the current pandemic in our societies globally.

The mental health effects of COVID-19 can shape health for many years, long past the events that precipitated them. Our global leaders have been focusing on saving lives and mitigating the short-term consequences of COVID-19, but the long-term consequences may be equally, if not more, important.

While it can be difficult to look past the immediate moments that we are facing, it is necessary, if we are to ensure the steps we take now are in the best interest of public health. It is now time for our global leaders to move from one of response to one of recovery.

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We, as humans are guaranteed certain things in life: stressors, taxes, bills and death are the first thoughts that pop to mind. It is not uncommon that many people find a hard time dealing with these daily life stressors, and at times will find themselves losing control over their lives. Simone Jennifer Smith’s great passion is using the gifts that have been given to her, to help educate her clients on how to live meaningful lives. The Hear to Help Team consists of powerfully motivated individuals, who like Simone, see that there is a need in this world; a need for real connection. As the founder and Director of Hear 2 Help, Simone leads a team that goes out into the community day to day, servicing families with their educational, legal and mental health needs.Her dedication shows in her Toronto Caribbean newspaper articles, and in her role as a host on the TCN TV Network.

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Urban Alliance on Race Relations celebrates and highlights Racial Justice Award recipients

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4 days ago

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December 19, 2024

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BY PAUL JUNOR

It has been almost 40 years since the Urban Alliance on Race Relations (UARR) has been at the forefront of: promoting tolerance, social justice, racial equity and fairness. Since it was formed in 1975, they have celebrated and recognized changemakers in the fight for racial justice in diverse sectors such as: health, labour, government, education, arts, media, environment, and justice.

On Saturday, December 7th, 2024, there was a great turnout at the 2024 Racial Justice Awards Night held at The Estate Banquet & Event Centre in Scarborough. In attendance were many community supporters, civic officials, long-time racial justice warriors, and individuals from diverse ethnic groups.

UARR is grateful for all the sponsors of the Racial Justice Awards Night Celebration. It notes in its email to its supporters on Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024, the importance of its sponsors including:

  • United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) of Canada, UFCW, Local 175
  • The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 353
  • Unite Here! Local 75
  • Toronto & York Region Labour Council
  • Canadian Labour Congress
  • The Coalitions of Black Trade Union (CBTUL)

“Your sponsorship plays a vital role in shining a light on individuals and organizations driving equity, justice, and change in our communities. This celebration is more than an event, it’s a movement. Thanks to your support, we’re: honoring changemakers, amplifying unheard voices, and funding initiatives that break down systemic barriers.”

The categories and names of the awards and recipients were:

Racial Justice in Arts: Hannia Cheng

She is an artist and cultural worker who co-founded Unit 270, a DIY gallery and multi-purpose grassroots community hub in Chinatown Centre.

Racial Justice in Labour: Vanessa Story

She is the founder of the Black Youth York Region and co-founder of the York Communities for Public Education coalition.

Racial Justice in Education: Shannon Simpson

She is Senior Director of Indigenous Initiatives at the University of Toronto.

Racial Justice in Environment: Dr. Ingrid Waldron

She is a Professor and HOPE Chair in Peace and Health in the Global and Peace and Social Justice Program in the Faculty of Humanities at McMaster University.

Urban Alliance of Race Relations Agent of Change Award: Kirk Mark

He is the Equity, Diversity and Inclusive Consultant at KIRK Mark & Associates.

Racial Justice in Media: Amanda Parris

She is an award-winning writer, tv host and producer, and former host of CBC Arts Exhibitionist.

Racial Justice in Health: Camille Orridge

She is former CEO of the Toronto Central Local Health Integration Network (TCLHIN).

Racial Justice in Government: Amira Elghawaby

She is a journalist and human rights advocate who was appointed in January 2023 as Canada’s Special Representative on Combating Islamophobia.

Racial Justice in Justice: South Asian Legal Clinic of Ontario (SALC0)

This legal clinic supports low-income South Asian people in Canada.

The funds raised from the Awards night will be going toward the work of the Diversity Youth Fellowship Program. This innovative and creative program is directly involved in enabling racialized youth to get paid experience working in municipal governments and at various public policy making organizations across Canada.

The performers at the event included: Katheen Zaragosa (a Filipino music performer), Rithika Jeristus & Maya Jeristus (Bharatanatyam dancers) and Yasmin Said (spoken word artist)

UARR is looking forward to its 50th anniversary celebrations in 2025 and shared five of its strategic priorities for the next 10 years including:

  • Employment and economic opportunity: The goal is to foster inclusive workspaces and economic opportunities.
  • Education: The goal is to promote racial equity in education and research.
  • Communication: The goal is to expand public awareness and reach to amplify our stories.
  • Community engagement and outreach: The goal is building community capacity and convening towards change.
  • Truth and reconciliation-relationship building and supporting calls to action. The goal is to strengthen our solidarity and action towards truth and reconciliation.

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What is it about those short videos that keep us captivated? Oh! Yes! Our short attention span

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4 days ago

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December 19, 2024

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BY KAHA GEDI

As our attention spans decrease, short form videos are becoming more popular. From TikTok, to YouTube Shorts, to Instagram Reels, these “snack sized” videos have positive qualities alongside the bad. Mainly we want to know what makes them so effective, and why are they becoming the go-to choice for both viewers and marketers? In this article, I will be discussing how these videos have received such popularity worldwide.

First, we need to understand what counts as and what is short-form content. According to blog.hubspot.com, “Short-form videos are videos that are less than 60 seconds long.” However, some marketers and content creators agree that short-form videos can be up to 3 minutes. “They are videos that deliver information in a ‘digestible’ format so that viewers can quickly watch and save content if they’re in a hurry or enjoy it.” Now, I’ll talk about the main reasons why these videos are so popular.

First, our attention spans have gone down exponentially. Dr Gloria Mark has written a book called “Attention Span,” and she says her research indicates people’s attention spans have been shrinking over the last 20 years. According to the same article Dr. Mark said that “Back in 2004, we found the average attention span on any screen to be two and a half minutes on average. Throughout the years, it became shorter. So, around 2012, we found it to be 75 seconds. Then in the last five, six years, we found it to average about 47 seconds.” So, it’s notable that our attention spans started out longer but then decreased over time.

Secondly, these videos have become cheaper and easier to make. Unlike long-form videos, which require extensive: planning, editing, and storytelling, short-form videos are simpler. To the point where they can even be shot on a smartphone. For example, DuoLingo, the app that helps learn new languages, went viral on TikTok a long time ago by posting funny, low-budget videos that resonate with millions. Like a video of a DuoLingo plus being: tossed down the stairs, sitting outside on a rainy day, or being soaked by the shower with the title “When you ignore my notifications.”

Lastly, they provide valuable information in a short amount of time, and they are easily accessible. According to a recent Adobe Survey, two in five Americans use TikTok as a search engine, and nearly one in 10 Gen Zeers are more likely to rely on TikTok than Google as a search engine. This isn’t always reliable for real news because anyone can claim to be an expert, and you wouldn’t know if they’re telling the truth. So, even though they give valuable information in a short time, they can also give misinformation or mislead you.

Short-form videos have changed how we watch and learn things. They fit our short attention spans, are easy to make, and share information quickly. Even though they’re fun and helpful, they can also spread false information or leave out important details. Even with these problems, short-form videos are here to stay, so we should use them in proportion, but also enjoy the benefits.

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Dr. Edward McInnis on the Importance of Preventive Care in Family Medicine

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4 days ago

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December 19, 2024

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Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

Preventive care is a cornerstone of modern healthcare, emphasizing the importance of addressing potential health concerns before they escalate into severe conditions. By focusing on proactive measures such as regular screenings, vaccinations, and lifestyle counseling, preventive care offers individuals and communities the opportunity to achieve long-term wellness.

Below, Edward McInnis highlights the transformative potential of prevention in reducing healthcare disparities, alleviating systemic challenges, and ensuring that every individual has the tools and access needed to lead a healthier life.

Understanding Preventive Care in Family Medicine

Preventive care in family medicine focuses on proactive measures to maintain health and prevent illness before it occurs. This approach emphasizes regular health evaluations, screenings, and interventions that identify potential issues early, reducing the likelihood of severe complications. Preventive care fosters long-term well-being by addressing risk factors and promoting healthier lifestyles while minimizing the burden of chronic diseases.

The philosophy behind preventive care aligns with the idea that staying healthy is more effective and less costly than treating illnesses after they arise. Early detection of conditions such as hypertension or high cholesterol allows patients and physicians to manage these issues effectively, preventing them from escalating into more severe health problems. Beyond individual benefits, this care model contributes to healthier communities by reducing the overall demand for healthcare systems.

Benefits of Preventive Care for Individuals and Communities

Preventive care profoundly impacts individuals and the broader community by addressing potential health concerns before they evolve into severe conditions. Early detection through routine screenings can significantly lower the risk of chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. This improves individual health outcomes and reduces the emotional and financial toll of managing advanced diseases.

Communities prioritizing preventive care experience a ripple effect of healthier populations and reduced strain on healthcare resources. When more people engage in regular check-ups and adopt healthier habits, the prevalence of preventable conditions drops, creating a collective benefit. Individuals who invest in their health through preventive measures often enjoy longer, more active lives, positively influencing families, workplaces, and society.

The economic advantages of preventive care are undeniable, as early intervention typically costs far less than treating advanced illnesses. Vaccination programs, such as those targeting seasonal flu or childhood diseases, can drastically curb outbreaks, saving lives and reducing medical expenses. These benefits demonstrate how preventive care is a cornerstone of sustainable and effective healthcare systems.

Core Preventive Services in Family Medicine

Family medicine emphasizes various preventive services designed to address health needs across all stages of life. Regular health screenings, such as blood pressure and cholesterol checks, are critical in identifying silent health risks. These assessments provide actionable insights that allow individuals to make timely adjustments to their lifestyles or begin treatment when necessary.

Vaccinations are another cornerstone of preventive care, protecting individuals and communities from infectious diseases. From childhood immunizations to seasonal flu shots, these interventions safeguard personal health and prevent the spread of illnesses within larger populations. Counseling services, including guidance on nutrition, exercise, and stress management, empower patients to take an active role in their long-term well-being.

The Role of Family Physicians in Prevention

Family physicians play a pivotal role in fostering preventive care through their ability to build lasting, trust-based relationships with patients. These relationships enable them to understand not just medical histories but also lifestyle factors, family dynamics, and social determinants of health. This comprehensive knowledge allows physicians to craft personalized preventive strategies that resonate with each patient’s unique circumstances, ensuring a more practical approach to maintaining health.

Beyond individual care, family physicians act as educators, equipping patients with the knowledge to make informed health decisions. Whether discussing the significance of regular screenings or addressing misconceptions about vaccines, their guidance helps patients take ownership of their health.

The continuity of care provided by family physicians also ensures that preventive measures are consistently monitored and adjusted as needed, fostering long-term well-being. Their ability to provide holistic and deeply personalized care sets the foundation for healthier patients and communities.

Challenges in Accessing Preventive Care

Despite its proven benefits, accessing preventive care remains challenging for many individuals and communities. Financial barriers, such as lack of insurance coverage or high out-of-pocket costs, often deter people from seeking preventive services. Additionally, limited awareness about the importance of early detection and health promotion means that some individuals may only prioritize preventive care once a health issue becomes severe.

Geographical disparities also play a significant role in limiting access. Rural and underserved areas frequently face shortages of healthcare providers, making it difficult for residents to receive consistent preventive services. In such regions, innovative approaches like mobile health clinics and telemedicine have emerged as solutions to bridge the gap. Expanding these efforts could help overcome logistical obstacles and ensure that preventive care reaches those most in need.

Cultural factors and mistrust of the healthcare system can further complicate access to preventive services. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that includes community engagement, culturally sensitive care, and efforts to build trust between healthcare providers and patients. Strengthening health literacy and facilitating dialogue between healthcare institutions and the communities they serve are also critical steps in overcoming these barriers.

Promoting and Advancing Preventive Care

Advancing preventive care depends on raising awareness and fostering a culture that values proactive health management. Educational campaigns, workplace wellness programs, and school-based health initiatives encourage people to adopt preventive practices. These efforts create an environment where individuals feel empowered to prioritize their well-being, leading to healthier lifestyles and earlier intervention.

The integration of technology is revolutionizing how preventive care is delivered. Wearable devices that track physical activity, heart rate, and sleep patterns provide individuals with real-time data about their health, prompting timely action when irregularities arise. Similarly, data analytics and predictive tools enable healthcare providers to identify at-risk populations and deliver targeted interventions, improving outcomes on a broader scale.

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