Final Essay

Mental Health Disorder Disease

Mental health is a cornerstone of overall well-being, influencing individuals and shaping

the fabric of society. The societal impact of mental health and the importance of cultivating

awareness are crucial in fostering a compassionate and empathetic community. In the intricate

tapestry of human existence, mental health stands as an often veiled yet profound aspect, shaping

the essence of individuals and influencing the collective fabric of society. As we navigate the

complexities of daily life, the significance of mental well-being becomes increasingly apparent.

Elaha Hakim, a resilient individual who embarked on a new chapter at AUW eight months ago,

is more than just a friend; she is a narrative of adaptation and struggle. In a candid conversation

about her experiences, she shared insights into her mental health, prompting an exploration of the

factors influencing her well-being. Through a comprehensive questionnaire, Elaha's responses

unveiled a complex mental health profile characterized by depression and environmental mental

disorder. Her journey reflects the broader reality that many individuals face when navigating new

environments and the subsequent impact on their mental health. As Elaha Hakim's confidante, I

delved into her experiences through a detailed questionnaire, uncovering the intricate layers of

psychological and environmental challenges. The results unequivocally point to the presence of

depression and environmental mental disorders, underlining the significance of addressing these

issues comprehensively. This essay aims to unravel the nuances of Elaha's condition, exploring

the nature of her ailments, delving into their root causes, and proposing recommendations for her

holistic well-being.
 Firstly, at the heart of this exploration is Elaha Hakim, a resilient soul who found herself

grappling with mental health challenges in the wake of significant environmental shifts. The

research questions that guided our inquiry encompassed the nuances of Elaha's emotional

landscape—probing the depths of her depressive symptoms, the intricacies of her anxiety, and

the echoes of post-traumatic stress. Understanding the person behind the scores, we embarked on

a journey to unravel the layers of Elaha's experiences, seeking not just a diagnosis but a

comprehensive understanding of her unique mental health journey. Elaha, a vivacious individual

whose laughter once echoed through the vibrant streets of Afghanistan, now stood at the

crossroads of a new chapter in Bangladesh. The contrast between the two environments set the

stage for a profound exploration of the intricate relationship between mental health and

environmental changes. The overarching question was not merely about Elaha's symptoms but

rather about how her essence, shaped by cultural nuances and personal experiences, manifested

in the scores we obtained.

Secondly, Elaha's responses to the SUCCEED Mental Health Questionnaire unveiled a

profound narrative of struggles with depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress. The PHQ-9

scores depicted a landscape marked by diminished interest, feelings of hopelessness, and

persistent thoughts of self-harm. GAD-7 illuminated elevated anxiety levels, while the PCL-5

scores revealed the haunting echoes of traumatic experiences. These findings paint a

comprehensive picture of Elaha's mental health struggles, underscoring the interplay of diverse

symptoms and their impact on her daily life. Delving into the qualitative aspects of Elaha's

responses provides a nuanced understanding of the context surrounding her scores. The loss of

interest in activities wasn't just a mere checklist item; it echoed the void left by the absence of the

bustling Afghan bazaars and familial gatherings. Feelings of hopelessness weren't isolated
emotions; they were intertwined with the challenges of navigating a new culture and the yearning

for familiarity. Persistent thoughts of self-harm weren't abstract notions; they were the desperate

whispers of someone trying to find solace in a world that had drastically changed.

Third, as we navigate the labyrinth of Elaha's mental health challenges, the path forward

necessitates a nuanced and comprehensive intervention plan. Culturally sensitive mental health

support emerges as a cornerstone, recognizing the impact of environmental shifts on Elaha's

well-being. This entails not only therapeutic interventions, potentially including cognitive-

behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication but also the creation of a robust support network.

Cultural nuances play a pivotal role in shaping one's perception of mental health, influencing

help-seeking behaviors and the acceptability of certain interventions. Recognizing this,

therapeutic approaches need to be tailored to resonate with Elaha's cultural background, ensuring

that the interventions are not only effective but also culturally congruent. Cognitive-behavioral

therapy, known for its adaptability, could be a suitable modality, addressing both the cognitive

distortions associated with depression and anxiety and the trauma-related symptoms. In parallel,

the creation of a robust support network becomes paramount. Reconnecting with familial and

social ties, fostering a smoother cultural transition, and actively involving these support

structures in the intervention process can significantly enhance the efficacy of the treatment plan.

Monitoring Elaha's progress becomes an ongoing endeavor, emphasizing the need for regular

check-ins and adjustments to the intervention plan. Mental health is dynamic, and a personalized

approach acknowledges the fluidity of symptoms and the evolving nature of an individual's

experience. In discussing these recommendations, we aim not only to address Elaha's needs but

also to advocate for a broader societal understanding of the interconnectedness of mental health
and environmental factors. Elaha's story becomes a narrative thread woven into the larger fabric

of society, urging us to cultivate empathy, break down cultural barriers, and recognize the

universality of human struggles. The path forward is not merely about addressing individual

cases but about fostering a societal ethos that embraces mental health as an integral aspect of

human well-being.

In conclusion, Elaha Hakim's journey through the intricate terrain of mental health

illuminates the profound interplay between individual experiences and environmental shifts. Her

scores on the SUCCEED Mental Health Questionnaire reveal a complex tapestry of depression

and environmental mental disorder, echoing the broader challenges many faces in adapting to

new surroundings. Understanding the person behind these scores underscores the need for a

comprehensive and culturally sensitive intervention plan. By intertwining therapeutic support, a

robust care network, and a nuanced understanding of cultural nuances, we pave the way for

Elaha's holistic well-being. Moreover, her narrative calls for broader societal recognition, urging

us to foster empathy, break down barriers, and embrace mental health as an intrinsic facet of

human existence. Elaha's story becomes a catalyst for change, propelling us towards a more

compassionate and inclusive societal ethos.

Mental health is a big part of our lives, but lots of people don't really get it. It's been a

problem for a long time, but not many folks talk about it. When it comes to asking for help with

mental health issues, there's this idea that people will judge and make fun of you. Even educated

folks sometimes think that if you use mental health services, you're not that smart or stable. This

belief stops people from seeking help, making their problems even tougher. Trying to understand

what people think about mental health is tricky. I learned a lot about it in my women's health

class. It wasn't just about how mental health affects everyone; it also helped me figure out my

own mental well-being as a woman. Now that I understand myself better, I can handle life's

challenges and support others going through similar struggles. However, getting to this point

wasn't easy. When I tried to find info for this assignment, many folks didn't want to talk. They

saw mental health discussions as unnecessary or even accusing. Some still think mental health is

only for "crazy" or super nervous people, and this idea sticks around even among educated folks.

Not knowing much about mental health makes it hard for us to deal with stress and problems. In

the end, mental health is a big deal for everyone. It affects how we see things, how we act, and

everything in society. We need to get rid of the idea that talking about mental health is bad. I

learned a lot, and now I think everyone should learn more too. It's important for people to

understand that life is tough for everyone, and being kind and knowing about mental health helps

all of us.