The study shows that Brazil ranks fourth in the mental health ranking
According to the study “The mental state of the world”, created by the Neurotech Sapien Labs platform, which evaluated 71 countries, Brazil is in fourth place among those with the greatest stress and mental health difficulties. The country was behind only South Africa, the United Kingdom and Uzbekistan.
Furthermore, the most recent data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) reinforce the worrying picture of mental health in Brazil. Between 2013 and 2019, the number of Brazilians diagnosed with depression increased by 34%, reaching 10.2% of the adult population, which corresponds to approximately 16.3 million people.
According to psychoanalyst and specialist in neuropsychology and neuropsychoanalysis, Priscila Gasparini Fernandes, mental health is often neglected until serious symptoms appear. He emphasizes the importance of being aware of the early signs and seeking professional help as soon as possible.
The psychoanalyst indicates five warning signs that mental health is not well and when to seek help:
1. Changes in sleep:
Insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, or waking up in the early hours of the morning are common signs that something is wrong. Lack of adequate sleep can trigger anxiety and irritability, affecting overall well-being.
2. Changes in appetite:
Changes in appetite may occur, with some people losing the desire to eat, while others overeat to cope with stress. This can impact both physical and mental health.
3. Negative and self-critical thoughts:
Persistent thoughts of worthlessness or inability to meet life’s challenges are clear symptoms of conditions such as depression and anxiety.
4. Excessive feelings of sadness:
Although sadness is a normal emotion, when it lasts for weeks or intensifies it is necessary to seek help, as it could be a sign of depression or other psychological disorders.
5. Lack of motivation:
Lack of energy to carry out daily activities, even without physical effort, can be a sign that mental health is compromised.
Fernandes emphasizes that mental health must be treated as seriously as physical health. Recognizing these signs and seeking specialized help is an important step in ensuring emotional and psychological well-being and also in preventing the condition from worsening.
If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health difficulties, it is essential to seek professional support. “Understand that even resolved people are susceptible to experiencing psychological problems. Life has its ups and downs, so it is important that when you notice any of these symptoms you seek specialized help. Seeking support is a sign of strength and commitment,” says the expert.
5 ways to take care of your mental health
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
