3-2 Short Answer- Biases and Assumptions
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3-2 Short Answer: Biases and Assumptions Richard Davis
Southern New Hampshire University
HUM 102 – Self Society and Humanities
Monica Alaniz-Mcginnis
January 28, 2024
HUM 102 Module Three Short Answer
1.
Describe some perceptions and observations present in your thinking regarding your chosen topic.
Perceptions and Observations: Mental health is an essential aspect of one's overall well-
being that unfortunately tends to be disregarded in many societies. The impact of mental health issues can be profound, affecting a person's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. However, due to the persisting stigma surrounding mental health, individuals often hesitate to seek the necessary help and support they need. This stigma surrounding mental health creates a barrier that prevents people from openly discussing their struggles or reaching out for professional assistance. It can generate feelings of shame, fear, and isolation, making it even more challenging for individuals to seek help. Consequently, many individuals end up suffering silently, exacerbating their mental health issues and potentially leading to long-term consequences. By overlooking mental health, societies are neglecting a fundamental aspect of holistic well-being. Just as physical health requires attention, so does mental health. Ignoring mental health not only impacts the individuals
directly affected but also has broader societal implications, including decreased productivity, strained relationships, and increased healthcare costs.
Factors or Experiences: My perception of mental health has been significantly influenced by personal experiences, academic studies, and life-altering events. Unfortunately, I experienced the heart-wrenching loss of my daughter, causing my own mental health issues to deal with,
alongside my fiancé who has dealt with them her entire life. This tragic experience has given me a deeper understanding and empathy towards individuals struggling with mental health problems.
Witnessing the devastating effects on my own family, I have become acutely aware of the urgent
need to address and destigmatize mental health.
Furthermore, my perceptions on mental health have been shaped by direct experiences with family members who have dealt with mental health issues. These personal encounters, both positive and negative, have given me a deeper understanding and empathy for the challenges individuals face in maintaining their mental well-being. In addition to personal experiences, I have also actively engaged in academic studies on the topic. This has allowed me to absorb research findings that underscore the complexity and multi-faceted nature of mental health, while
gaining insight from various perspectives and studies. I have delved into the intricacies and complexities of the issue, recognizing that it involves various factors such as genetics, environment, and individual experiences.
Prior Knowledge: My knowledge of mental health is derived from a combination of personal encounters and academic research. It encompasses a range of conditions, spanning from
common disorders like anxiety and depression to more severe conditions such as schizophrenia. I
also recognize that mental health is influenced by various factors, including genetics, environment, and lifestyle choices. My fiancé personally grapples with mental health challenges that have their roots in childhood trauma and years of addiction. Despite being seven years sober,
she continues to face this issue and must actively strive for a balanced life. The journey towards mental well-being is an ongoing process for her. Witnessing her journey has provided me with
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firsthand insights into the ongoing process of striving for mental well-being amidst personal struggles.
2.
Explain your own biases regarding the topic you chose for your project. Biases: Acknowledging personal biases regarding mental health is crucial. For me, personally, I am inclined to view mental health issues as medical conditions requiring professional intervention, although I appreciate that treatment approaches can vary based on individual circumstances. Through my personal encounters and observations, I have come to understand that mental well-being is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Each person’s journey towards finding balance and stability is unique, and it often requires a multi-faceted approach. In particular, my experiences with my fiancé have reinforced my belief in the necessity of
actively striving for a harmonious and healthy lifestyle. Observing the trials and challenges she has endured throughout our years together has provided me with a profound understanding of the
complexity of mental health. It is evident that achieving a state of equilibrium requires a dedicated commitment to personal growth, self-improvement, and ongoing support.
To me, it is important to recognize that mental health is not solely dependent on external factors, but is also influenced by internal processes, such as one’s mindset and coping mechanisms. This understanding has led me to appreciate the significance of holistic approaches that encompass not only professional intervention but also self-care practices, therapy, healthy relationships, and healthy life-style choices.
Assumptions: One fundamental belief I hold is that individuals facing mental health challenges should actively seek professional assistance. However, it is crucial to recognize the existence of various barriers that can impede access to appropriate care. These barriers may include societal stigma surrounding mental health, inadequate availability of resources, or cultural beliefs that discourage seeking professional help. Such barriers can hinder individuals from receiving the necessary support and treatment they require, further exacerbating their mental health concerns. It is imperative that we address and remove these barriers to ensure that everyone has equitable access to the care they need.
Influence on Perception: The loss of my daughter has inevitably influenced my perception of mental health in profound ways. It has provided me with a firsthand perspective on
the immense challenges faced by those dealing with mental health issues and their families. This experience deepens my empathy and motivates me to advocate for greater awareness and support
for mental health. I believe that it is imperative to foster an environment that encourages open dialogue about mental health, seeks to reduce the stigma associated with it, and promotes the importance of seeking appropriate support and treatment. It is my sincerest hope that through my
advocacy efforts, I can help facilitate positive change and ensure that individuals facing mental health challenges and their families receive the understanding, compassion, and resources they so
desperately need.
Stances on Issues: My stance on mental health is firm – mental health is an incredibly important aspect of overall well-being that should be given equal attention and seriousness as physical health. Just as we prioritize taking care of our bodies through exercise and proper
nutrition, we should also prioritize taking care of our minds. I firmly believe that access to mental health resources should be a fundamental right for everyone, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. I believe it is imperative that these resources are readily available and easily accessible to individuals in a timely manner. This includes not only therapy or counseling services but also education and awareness programs that can help individuals understand and manage their own mental health. Furthermore, it is equally as important to combat the stigma surrounding mental health. Society must actively work towards creating an environment where individuals feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns openly and seeking help without fear of judgement. By promoting mental health awareness and education, we can contribute to destigmatizing mental illnesses and fostering a more supportive and inclusive community. Moreover, it is essential to foster compassion and empathy towards those who are struggling with mental health challenges, so that individuals feel supported and understood in their journey towards recovery. To achieve this, it is imperative that we actively confront and combat the pervasive stigma that surrounds mental health. Stigma serves as a significant barrier that prevents individuals from seeking help and hinders the development of open and empathetic conversations. By challenging societal misconceptions and fostering a culture of acceptance, we can create a supportive and inclusive society where individuals feel safe to openly discuss their mental health struggles without fear of judgment or discrimination. Central to this approach is the promotion of mental health awareness. It is essential to educate the general public about the importance of mental health, its prevalence, and the available resources for support and treatment. By increasing knowledge and understanding, we
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can normalize discussions around mental health, encouraging individuals to seek help and fostering a culture of empathy and support. I firmly stand by the belief that mental health should never be dismissed or trivialized. It is inseparable from our overall well-being and profoundly impacts our quality of life. By advocating for accessible resources, actively combating stigma, and promoting awareness, we can work towards a society that prioritizes mental health as fervently as physical health, ensuring
that all individuals have the opportunity to lead fulfilling and healthy lives.
Recognizing the importance of maintaining an open and critical mindset, it is essential to continually scrutinize our biases and assumptions when engaging in research or conversations about mental health. By actively challenging our own perspectives, we can contribute to a more comprehensive understanding and effective approach to mental health issues.