Why are you passionate about mental health?

Question

From the heartfelt advocacy of a business owner and psychologist to the strategic insights of a Certified Psychology Expert and Life Coach, ten dedicated professionals share why mental health is their passion. This article delves into a spectrum of perspectives, starting with advocating for mental health awareness and culminating in coaching for mental health fulfillment, providing a comprehensive look at the driving forces behind their commitment. Discover the personal and professional reasons these experts are fervently championing mental well-being.

Peggy Loo · Answer

For most of human existence, we have been ignorant about the importance of psychological health, and now I get to be a part of bringing awareness to an essential part of our lives. Neglecting our mental health may harm our productivity, relationships, personal happiness, and future resilience. Personally, the most important reason I'm passionate about mental health is that I've experienced clients who start therapy feeling hopeless and leave feeling optimistic, with an overall improved quality of life.

Nick Bach · Answer

I worked in aged care and saw the loneliness and social isolation firsthand. It broke my heart. I then conducted four years of research into this issue and found that everyone was treating the symptoms and not the cause. Loneliness, in many cases, is a precursor to mental illness, so we should address the root cause, which is fundamentally a lack of real human connection. We're fishing people out of the river and not building a bridge. So, I've made a podcast to give people the skills and assurance to make new connections.

Stephen Pascoe · Answer

Mental health influences a lot of our daily lives. It shapes our perceptions of relationships, how we perceive ourselves, and how we perceive the world at large. While the dangers of untreated mental health are getting a lot of recognition worldwide, I feel like we are still not doing enough to unpack why each person suffers and how to mitigate these instances. We try to educate and spread awareness, but most people with mental illness are afraid of the stigma attached to having one and choose to go untreated, hurting themselves even more than they already are. Mental health can lead to physical illness, substance use, and other methods of self-harm. It is important that people know that it's okay to get help, and by getting this help, you will change how you perceive everything for the better, and you will be able to lead a far more fulfilling life.

John McLean · Answer

Mental health is my passion because I have made it my life. As a psychiatrist, my work involves helping patients improve their mental health and, in turn, improve their lives. Providing TMS to patients with treatment-resistant depression can bring relief that they thought was impossible. Your mental health affects everything you do, so helping people get better is incredibly fulfilling work.

Dr. Bryan Bruno · Answer

Our mental health is connected to everything in our lives—our ability to respond to stress, sense of self, relationships, career, even physical health and sleep. By taking care of our mental health, we can see ripple effects in every area of our lives. It's an incredible part of who we are that's often neglected—but can thrive if we give it our attention at any stage of life.

William Schroeder · Answer

My wife and I are both therapists and own Just Mind Counseling in Austin, TX, with 50 therapists. She is a board member at the Institute of Violence, Abuse, and Trauma. I am part of the Texas Association of Business's Healthcare Committee and a member of the Texas Coalition of Healthy Minds, working to create better mental health care for all Texans. Mental health is a personal passion to me because I was always the person my friends went to when in need. Several friends were sexually assaulted as kids, and I was the person they went to for support. Looking back, I can see how those traumas affected their life trajectories, based on the support they received—or not. So, it’s a personal mission to help others with the best evidence-based care. At the end of the day, we are talking about the quality of people’s lives. This affects their economic stability and physical health. So, it’s important that we work hard to improve outcomes.

Amber Moseley · Answer

I think mental wellness is equally vital to physical health. We must take care of our minds by controlling stress, getting adequate sleep, and receiving professional help when necessary, just as we take care of our bodies by eating well and exercising. I believe that a successful workplace depends on mental wellness. Employees who are in good mental health are more engaged, productive, and innovative. Additionally, they are less likely to take sick days and are more likely to stay with their companies. I think it's important for all of us to confront the growing problem of mental health. According to estimates from the World Health Organization, one in four people will, at some point in their lives, deal with a mental health issue. Furthermore, getting the necessary assistance can be challenging for some due to the stigma associated with mental health.

Rebbeca Lahann, Psy.D. · Answer

My passion for mental health stems from witnessing its profound impact on individuals. Mental well-being isn't just about clinical diagnoses; it's intricately tied to our overall quality of life. When individuals experience optimal mental health, they're better equipped to fully engage in various aspects of life, be it relationships, work, or personal development. Observing individuals' resilience and growth through support and understanding is incredibly rewarding. Additionally, the prevalent societal stigma and misunderstandings surrounding mental health inspire me to advocate for increased awareness, acceptance, and accessible resources. Ultimately, being a part of someone's journey toward mental wellness is an honor, and witnessing their restoration of joy and purpose propels my passion for this field.

Tanveer Padder · Answer

As a psychiatrist, my passion for mental health stems from witnessing the transformative power of healing and restoring the well-being of individuals. Each day, I am inspired by the resilience and strength displayed by my patients as they navigate their mental health challenges. It is a privilege to be a part of their journey, empowering them to reclaim their lives, find meaning, and cultivate resilience. I firmly believe that mental health is not merely the absence of illness but the cornerstone for a truly fulfilling and meaningful life. Through advocacy, de-stigmatization, and promoting awareness, I strive to ensure that individuals receive the compassionate care they deserve. Together, we can create a world where mental health is prioritized, understood, and seamlessly integrated into the fabric of our society.

Bayu Prihandito · Answer

I'm passionate about mental health because it's the core of how we experience life. My work in psychology and coaching has shown how our mental well-being shapes everything around us: from our relationships and career to our choices and happiness. Working with people to help them unlock their true potential by teaching them how to effectively manage their emotions and thoughts is incredibly rewarding. Mental health is more than just overcoming one's challenges; it's about building a long-lasting, balanced, and fulfilling life.

Why Are You Passionate About Mental Health?