Because it enhances well-being, mental health is an essential part of society. It is imperative that effective intervention strategies are developed to address the rising incidence of mental illness, especially after the COVID-19 outbreak. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIH), in an analysis of the United States, found that roughly five percent of Americans have a mental condition. In total, 51.5 million people aged 18 or older were diagnosed with a mental disorder in 2019. The rising incidence of mental illness in the United States has made it a social issue. It requires concerted effort to improve the health of all Americans, regardless of race or gender. The absence of effective strategies and actions will result not only in an increase the incidence of mental illnesses, but also an increase in deaths, especially among people with severe mental disorders. It is important to implement strategies and measures that improve mental health.
Recognizing that people with mental illnesses are stigmatized in society is important. Others avoid them as they can be seen as potentially dangerous or capable of causing harm. Preconceptions like these can hinder the advancement of mental health. The stigma and prejudices associated with those who suffer from mental illness have been entrenched, including health care practitioners who may have unfavorable views towards these patients (Jackson-Best & Edwards, 2018). The attitudes and beliefs of mental health care providers toward their patients are crucial in influencing how successfully they fulfill their duties (Jackson-Best & Edwards, 2018). Mental health professionals should be role models to others in the treatment of mental illness. Mental health professionals should confront individuals with mental illness in the most dependent and helpless state possible. Mental illness patients have a different perspective than those who receive treatment. This means that professionals and mental health practitioners must distinguish between professionalism from attitudes. Because of stigmat associated with those with mental illness, it is difficult to find a deal with healthcare providers on accessing better care and improving outcomes. Therefore, it is important to address the mental health needs of people with mental illnesses without stigmatizing them. This will promote their mental health and help build a sense of belonging.