Mental Illness: An Increase in Cases or Just More Awareness?

Mental health has become an increasingly popular topic of conversation in recent years. But, with it becoming more common to talk about, we can’t help but wonder: has the rate of mental illness increased, or are we just better at recognising it and asking for help? Is mental illness really on the rise, or do we just know more and can address it better? As society becomes more comfortable with mental health and mental illness, more and more people are asking for help and getting diagnoses that would have previously gone unnoticed. But does this surge in diagnoses mean that there are more mental illness cases, or does it mean that we have better awareness surrounding it? In this article, we’ll explore the complex relationship between mental health awareness, societal changes and the potential rise of mental illness.

The Stigma Around Mental Illness

There is still a stigma surrounding mental illness, but it’s definitely gotten better. In the past, many people wouldn’t have spoken up about needing help because of the stigma. Stigma has been a significant barrier for people needing support, as society often saw mental health issues as a personal weakness or something to be ashamed of. This would often lead people to struggle in silence and hide symptoms for fear of judgement and rejection. The shift around mental health and many advocacy groups working to end the stigma surrounding mental illness have made a significant difference in this. While many people still feel the stigma and there is still work to do, a lot of progress has been made. Many people feel more comfortable now, more than ever, to ask for the help they need.

The Rise of Mental Health Awareness Campaigns

The rise of important mental health awareness campaigns has significantly contributed to better awareness. These campaigns have played an important role in reducing the stigma and promoting open and supportive dialogue. Campaigns like “mental health awareness month” and #endthestigma have broken down barriers that stopped people from talking about their struggles. These campaigns have increased awareness and empathy and encouraged people to ask for help when they need it. They’ve empowered people to share their own stories to help normalise conversations surrounding mental health and mental illness.

Powerful Mental Health Campaigns That Have Changed How We Talk About It

• Bell Let’s Talk
• Time to Change
• #mymindmatters
• Heads Together
• #mentalhealthforall

Increased Accessibility to Mental Health Resources

Though many people still face accessibility issues when it comes to mental health resources, the rise of mental health online platforms, telehealth options and workplace mental health benefits has made significant impacts. These improvements have helped people in rural areas be able to access help and have greatly reduced barriers in accessing mental health resources. 

Examples of Improved Mental Health Resources

• Improved telehealth services
• Workplace mental health programs
• Insurance reforms
• Crisis text lines
• Community-based mental health programs
• Mobile mental health apps

Rising Mental Illness Rates or Improved Diagnoses

It’s hard to say whether or not mental illness rates are rising or if we’re just better at diagnosing them. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, was released on May 18, 2013 and since then, it has helped immensely with diagnosing and spotting symptoms. It’s possible that while mental illness could be on the rise, there is just improved awareness around it. 

What the DSM-5 Has Done for Us

• Helped to standardise diagnostic criteria, which has helped clinicians be able to make consistent and reliable diagnoses.
• Improved accuracy of diagnoses, which has in turn allowed for better and more personalised treatment plans.
• Clearer classification of mental health conditions.
• Recognises new mental health disorders.
• Helps guide treatment decisions.
• Increases public awareness and understanding of mental health and mental illness.

The Role of Social Media in Mental Health Awareness

Social media has played a huge role in improving mental health awareness. It offers a space for open dialogue and fosters a strong sense of community. People can share personal stories and find hope, solidarity, and support while reducing the mental health stigma and raising awareness about various conditions. It gives people a space where they can share openly and honestly, which collectively makes a big difference in reducing the stigma.

Are We Better At Asking For Help?

It’s possible that we are better at asking for help now. Social media has helped to dismantle the large barriers, along with improved access to mental health resources, the rise of online therapy platforms, and celebrities that are endorsing talking about mental health and mental illness. While we could be better at asking for help, the world is also better at recognising when we need help and being ready to offer it. Collectively, these factors have made a massive difference.

Examples of Why It’s Easier to Ask for Help

• The rise of telehealth and online therapy has made it more accessible to many and eliminated the need for in-person appointments. It offers convenience and support while also offering privacy.
• There has been an increase in employee-assisted programs for mental health, like various support programs, therapy coverage and more.
• There has been an increased awareness surrounding mental health and mental illness, which makes it easier for people to speak up.
• Mental health coverage is more common among insurance providers now. This makes it more affordable and accessible.
• There has been a rise in online support groups and communities aimed at helping people with their mental health and raising awareness about mental illness.
• Many cities have made dedicated crisis lines where people can text or call to get immediate mental health help.

Final Thoughts

In the end, the debate over whether or not we’re better at asking for help or being diagnosed more is nuanced. There are many points that support both, but we believe it to be an accumulation of both factors. We are better at asking for help when we need it, and clinicians have become better at recognising and consistently diagnosing mental illness. There is more awareness, which brings more diagnosis. What do you think? Is mental illness on the rise, or are we just better at spotting it?