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E-Quipped to... Rethink Mental Illness

This newsletter refers to 'Understanding Mental Disorders', 'Defeating Depression' and 'Axe Anxiety', comprehensive articles found on my website. 

Last month’s edition of Time magazine (10 October 2016) featured two book reviews - “Born to Run”, the autobiography of rock and roll star Bruce Springsteen, and “I am Brian Wilson” the memoir of Brian Wilson (co-founder of the Beach Boys).

The article talks about how both of these celebrities have had to deal with mental disorders and gives us a chance to rethink our understanding of mental illness in a variety of ways.

When we think of mental illness, most people think of the stereotype of the mentally ill patient as portrayed in the movies – axe wielding murderers or out of control crazy people locked up in insane asylums! The reality is that most people with mental illness are not crazy and don’t need to be locked up!

Just last week, when hearing that I was a psychologist, someone said to me, “Oh, another one who works with crazy people!” My response was, “Actually I work with high functioning people.” Which is true. As a counselling psychologist in private practice, I consult to some top national and international companies - forward thinking companies that realise the benefits of counselling and psychotherapy for employee wellness and, ultimately, productivity. My clients are not in institutions. They see me in their offices, or at my consulting rooms, or even use technology to talk to me from anywhere in the world. 

“I am not here to shrink your head, but rather to expand your mind!”

Claire Newton

Which brings us back to Bruce Springsteen and Brian Wilson. It is an undisputed fact that their contribution to the music industry is significant. Bruce Springsteen is one of the highest-selling artists of all time and the Beach Boys, with Brian Wilson the main songwriter and producer, is one of the world’s best-selling bands of all time. And yet both men suffer from mental illness.

Bruce Springsteen has suffered bouts of depression (taking him to the point of suicidal thinking) and anxiety (panic attacks) for 35 years. Brian Wilson suffers from schizo-affective disorder (a disorder which combines psychotic symptoms such as delusions or hallucinations with bouts of mood episodes such as depression or mania). 

Explore: Defeating Depression | Axe Anxiety | Understanding Bipolar Disorder 

The Times magazine article reminds us that “fame, talent and money provide little shelter” from mental illness and makes the point that the books refute the notion of the ‘tortured genius’. Neither man has found inspiration in their illness. “Instead both recognise they have disorders that can be treated but never cured” and seek the help of mental health professionals, combining medication and psychotherapy as part of their treatment plan.

The Times article says, “That they [Springsteen and Wilson] both let us in on their ongoing ills speaks to our changing understanding of mental illness…” And it’s high time we did rethink the stereotypical view of mental health and the stigma attached to consulting mental health professionals for help. Why? Because…

• Depression and anxiety are found in every society in the world.
• Anxiety - the most common of all mental disorders - affects about one in 13 people (7.3 percent). 
• About one in 21 people (4.7 percent) will have major depression at some point in time.
• Depression and anxiety are significantly on the increase.
• By 2020 depression will be the 2nd most disabling health condition in the world (Lopez et al., 2006).
• At its worst, depression can lead to suicide. 
• 60-80% of cases of depression can be effectively treated with brief, structured forms of psychotherapy and antidepressant medication. 

Now a global health issue, the awareness, diagnosis and treatment of mental illness is essential in building a healthier, happier world. We don’t need to leave it to the celebrities, let’s ALL rethink mental illness and speak up and speak out about it. 

About These Newsletters

You may have been forwarded this email by a friend. In that case, allow me to introduce myself. I am a psychologist, speaker, trainer, coach and hat lover based in Durban, South Africa.

My goal is to inspire you to make the changes necessary to live the life of your dreams! I believe that by developing your YOU-Q - the term I have created to describe your unique intelligence, creativity and wisdom - you can find your Inner winner and live a Be-YOU-tiful life right now.

On my website you'll find more ideas to get you thinking about life, love, work and other important STUFF.

Visit www.clairenewton.co.za 

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