13 12 Chapter One: Recognizing Students in Difficulties and Distress Chapter One: Recognizing Students in Difficulties and Distress References http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs220/en/ http://www.who.int/maternal_child_adolescent/topics/adolescence/mental_health/en/ MENTAL HEALTH TRENDS TO WATCH Global Spotlight on Mental Health The World Health Organization (WHO) states that mental health is an integral and essential component of health. Its constitution states: “Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity” (WHO, 2016). An important implication is that mental health is more than just the absence of mental disorders or disabilities. It is a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to community. It was estimated worldwide that up to 20% of children and adolescents experience various severity of mental disorders. Half of all mental illnesses begin by the age of 14 and three-quarters by mid-20s. Neuropsychiatric conditions are the leading cause of disability in young people in all regions. If untreated, these conditions severely influence one’s development, educational “Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” attainments and potential to live a fulfilling and productive life. Students with mental disorders often face stigma, isolation and discrimination, as well as the lack of access to health care and education facilities, in violation of their fundamental human rights. Public mental health is a valuable asset for the whole world. To promote global awareness, World Mental Health Day is observed on 10 October every year, with the objective of raising awareness of mental health issues and mobilizing efforts in support of mental health, including preventive measures and post-diagnosis rehabilitation services that are essential for resumption of normal life. The symptoms of mental disorders listed in this guide are made reference to two international standard diagnostic tools, the fifth edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) published by the American Psychiatric Association and the eleventh revision of International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) maintained by the WHO.
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