“The children have so little to look forward to amidst the hardships of war. Some have lost their fathers, who were serving as soldiers in the Ukrainian forces. This is why they were so reluctant to leave our country, which moved me deeply,” remarked Mario Fava, President of the Association of Local Councils, reflecting on the summer camp organized in collaboration with various entities for a group of Ukrainian children and youth aged 9 to 14.

Beyond the joy of being far from the looming dangers of war, the children were also immersed in Maltese culture and everyday life.

Mr. Fava, leveraging his international connections through his roles in European regional organizations, had discussed with Ukrainian counterparts the possibility of offering these children, who have long been deprived of life’s simple joys, a chance to experience something new. Children living in constant fear and uncertainty embraced this opportunity with open arms. The idea was met with enthusiasm, and ultimately, these children were able to enjoy the warmth and beauty of a typical Maltese summer.”

Fava explained that, together with a dedicated team, they organized a week filled with engaging activities, where the children’s joyful expressions made it clear just how much they were enjoying themselves. Highlights of the week included a train tour through the historic Cottonera cities, a hands-on visit to Mdina Glass where the children crafted their own glass pieces, and a stop at MCAST, which was hosting another summer camp.

The program also featured trips to Gozo, particularly to its capital, Victoria, and a series of culinary workshops where the children got the chance to make their own pizzas from scratch. They explored major shopping districts in Kalkara, Sliema, and St. Julian’s, relishing the experience of window shopping, making small purchases, and playing in game rooms equipped with the latest technological entertainment.

Back in Ukraine, stores of this kind remain closed, with only essential shops in operation. The vibrant atmosphere, sunny weather, and colorful displays in Maltese outlets left a lasting impression on the children, many of whom were hesitant to leave this new, bright world they had discovered.

“The most moving moment for me was when we took the children swimming, both in the stunning sea of our country and in the pool of a local farmhouse. Their joy was overwhelming, as some hadn’t had the opportunity to swim in nearly three years due to Russian forces blocking access to the coastline. I’ll never forget their smiles or the heartfelt gratitude they showed for the experiences we organized. Our sea, with its incredible beauty, was a perfect backdrop as the children not only swam but also dived underwater, marvelling at the fish. Such a simple pleasure, yet one they had long been deprived of.”

He shared how deeply he was impacted by this week-long experience, especially seeing the Ukrainian children’s reluctance to return home. Although they had arrived without their parents, they found a sense of paradise here, a world far removed from the horrors they’ve endured and continue to face. Importantly, contact with their parents was maintained throughout the trip, and the parents expressed deep gratitude for the care and joy provided to their children.”

Mario Fava expressed his commitment to organizing similar initiatives in the future, believing they have a meaningful impact on those who are suffering deeply.

“I had the chance to speak with Prime Minister Robert Abela, who also met the children during their visit. While interacting with them, he guided them on a tour of the Auberge de Castille, sharing the rich history of the building.”

“The Prime Minister reassured me of the importance of these kinds of activities, emphasizing how they can truly make a difference in people’s lives. My aim is to plan something similar around Christmas, a time that holds special significance worldwide. Although there are still many details to work out, I find immense satisfaction in knowing I’ve helped bring smiles to those who have been deprived of joy and the sense of normalcy that we Maltese so often take for granted.”

Mental health encompasses more than just the absence of illness; it reflects how individuals think, feel, and behave in their daily lives. While it may seem straightforward to define, addressing mental health issues can be complex. This is where mental health specialists play a vital role. They provide support and interventions for conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, addictions, and other issues that impact thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Through their expertise, they help individuals navigate and overcome these challenges, promoting overall well-being and quality of life.

The impact of mental health extends into everyday life, often manifesting in diverse ways. Not only does it influence how individuals navigate daily tasks and interactions, but it also exerts a significant influence on their relationships and physical well-being. From managing stress to coping with challenges, mental health plays a fundamental role in shaping various aspects of a person’s life. Consequently, addressing mental health concerns is crucial for fostering resilience, nurturing healthy relationships, and promoting overall wellness.

These factors have the potential to trigger or worsen psychological distress. Take, for example, how depression can lead to feelings of isolation and being excluded from social circles. These aspects frequently signal the beginning of a depressive episode.

Often, people overlook the significance of prioritizing mental health as a means of safeguarding the life they lead. Achieving this entails striving for balance in various aspects of life. This balance encompasses the activities we pursue, our professional endeavours, familial relationships, pursuits that bring joy and fulfilment, as well as our responsibilities. Most importantly, it involves cultivating resilience to navigate the inevitable uncertainties and challenges that arise. By nurturing this equilibrium and resilience, individuals can fortify their mental well-being, empowering themselves to lead fulfilling and purposeful lives.Top of Form

This underscores the reality that conditions like depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses can evolve into more severe mental health disorders. If these issues are ignored or untreated, they have the potential to profoundly disrupt an individual’s life and daily functioning. It emphasizes the importance of early intervention and proactive measures to address mental health concerns, thereby safeguarding overall well-being and quality of life.

As previously noted, while the term “mental health” is commonly used by professionals, there’s an understanding among experts that numerous psychological conditions may have underlying physical origins or implications. This acknowledgment highlights the intricate interplay between mental and physical health, with conditions often influencing and impacting each other. It underscores the importance of considering holistic approaches to healthcare that address both mental and physical well-being for comprehensive and effective treatment.

For better clarity, let’s differentiate between mental health and mental illness. It’s crucial to pay attention to early signs that may lead to various mental and physical disorders.

What defines Mental Health ?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health signifies a state of mental well-being in which an individual can effectively cope with life’s stresses. It encompasses the capacity to develop one’s abilities through work, learning, and contribution, while also fostering a sense of belonging and participation within a community.

As outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health transcends the absence of mental disorders or disabilities. It entails cultivating a state of robust mental well-being, characterized by not only physical health but also a profound awareness of one’s capabilities and a sense of overall satisfaction in life.

This underscores the critical importance of safeguarding and fostering mental health, not only for individuals but also for our communities and societies at large, across all levels.

Why is it important to eliminate stigma?

Everything we’ve discussed underscores compelling reasons to dismantle stigma and recognize that seeking help is not indicative of weakness or failure. Countless individuals grapple with conditions or experiences that, with professional support, they can overcome to regain control of their lives.

For example, in the United States (US), the National Alliance on Mental Illness estimates that one in every five individuals experiences mental health issues each year.

In 2020, data from the National Institute of Mental Health revealed that within the European Union, 14.2 million adults, comprising 5.6% of the population, grappled with psychological conditions. Concurrently, an alarming statistic emerged: 9.8 million individuals, constituting 4% of the populace, faced exceptionally severe conditions that significantly deteriorated their quality of life.

Moreover, the plight extended to the younger generation. Shockingly, one out of every five adolescents aged twelve to eighteen encountered profound struggles with mental disorders. Even more distressing was the revelation that 13% of children aged eight to fourteen were trapped by the same distressing conditions, underscoring a concerning trend of mental health challenges among the youth.

Among adults, the numbers paint a stark picture. Within the EU, 1.1% of the population contends with the challenging reality of schizophrenia, while 2.6% wrestle with bipolar disorder. Adding to this burden, a staggering 7% of the EU populace, totalling 16 million individuals, has grappled with at least one episode of depression within the same year.

But these figures only scratch the surface of the mental health landscape. An additional 18% of the population experiences anxiety stemming from a myriad of sources, including trauma, loss, and familial struggles. It’s crucial to recognize that these statistics don’t even capture those who develop disorders and conditions due to substance and alcohol abuse, further underscoring the magnitude of the mental health crisis.

This underscores the prevalent reluctance, hesitancy, and sense of isolation that individuals often experience when reaching out for help. This reluctance is deeply rooted in the pervasive stigma that surrounds mental health concerns, compelling individuals to suffer in silence rather than seek the support they desperately need. Despite acknowledging their need for care or assistance, individuals grapple with an enduring fear of judgment and discrimination, which leads them to neglect their own mental health needs and conditions. As a result, they may postpone seeking the essential care they require, thereby worsening their situation as the self-care they seek remains frustratingly out of reach.

This not only jeopardizes the well-being of the individual but also poses significant risks to those around them, often with even greater consequences. For loved ones living with or beside them, it can become an incredibly arduous and emotionally challenging journey.

What factors contribute to these risks?

While it’s clear that anyone can face such challenges, certain factors in a person’s background and living circumstances may heighten their vulnerability. Even individuals who seem to have the most supportive environments and familial backgrounds can find themselves susceptible to mental health issues.

Social or financial circumstances can indeed elevate the risk of mental health challenges. Therefore, it’s imperative to underscore the significance of maintaining balance from the very start and prioritizing it. Everything we carry within us, if not managed with care, can potentially lead to unforeseen experiences. It’s crucial to recognize that approaching life with an open mind and not viewing any single aspect as the sole focus is essential. This understanding is crucial for various reasons, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of our existence.

The primary factors that can lead to a certain lack of stability in our mental health are financial constraints or, better yet, the limitations that some may have, as well as socio-economic pressures, which, unwillingly, can start comparing what others are doing with what you can do.

The urban landscape where individuals reside can significantly influence these dynamics, underscoring the need for prioritization within national policies. It’s crucial to assess how specific environmental choices might affect the mental well-being of residents in the immediate vicinity of certain projects or developments. This consideration extends beyond just the residents’ health and welfare; it also encompasses the potential ramifications for government finances. Recognizing that mental health, or its absence, can directly impact fiscal matters adds another layer of importance to this discussion, warranting dedicated attention and deliberation.

Additional factors encompass employment status, social exclusion or inclusion, the extent of community support, educational attainment, living conditions, sexual orientation, experiences of abuse in childhood or adulthood, family loss, marital separations, chronic illnesses, and more. When such episodes occur during childhood or adolescence, children remain vulnerable, with a possibility that these experiences may continue to impact them into adulthood, potentially resulting in ongoing suffering.

Embracing boldness

Hence, it’s important to understand that even those who seem “normal” among their friends or within their family circle could be grappling with profound psychological distress internally and emotionally. If we overlook their struggles, they may persist in feeling isolated and unheard. Despite being surrounded by others; these individuals may still feel an overwhelming sense of loneliness. Recognizing this reality is paramount.

In the journey of life, we all face moments when we need a helping hand, regardless of the challenges we encounter. Recognizing that seeking support is not a sign of weakness, but rather an acknowledgment of our shared humanity, is crucial. Whether it’s your spouse, a friend, or a professional, assistance is available, waiting to be sought. So, take that courageous step forward, not just for yourself, but for the cherished ones around you. By embracing the support available, you pave the way for a brighter, more fulfilling life journey together. Remember, courage is the beacon guiding us through the darkest of times towards a brighter tomorrow!

Mario Fava
President

Suicide is not an unavoidable outcome; rather, it is often preventable. Crucially, tackling stigma and delving into the intricate web of factors that contribute to this risk are essential steps in implementing effective measures and protective strategies. Research indicates that understanding and addressing the complexities of individual circumstances is key to identifying and supporting those at risk.

Statistics

Statistics reveal a somber reality: in the United Kingdom, the loss of 115 lives to suicide every week is a stark reminder of the magnitude of this issue. Shockingly, one out of every five individuals in the UK grapples with suicidal thoughts. Even more alarming is the fact that approximately one in every twenty individuals will take the drastic step of attempting suicide. Adding to this grim picture, on a global scale, a person succumbs to suicide every forty seconds, highlighting the urgency of addressing this widespread concern. Astonishingly, this frequency equates to the annual toll of deaths from war or homicide, underscoring the profound impact of suicide on societies worldwide.

What leads to this phenomenon?

It’s a troubling reality that one in every five individuals contends with or contemplates suicide. Yet, research underscores the possibility of prevention. The setting in which these thoughts emerge, whether it be the home, workplace, or community, is pivotal. When negative experiences, emotions, and circumstances pervade within the familial, professional, or societal spheres, coupled with feelings of isolation, the notion that death is the sole remedy to alleviate suffering and negativity becomes deeply entrenched in the individual’s psyche.Despite this, it’s essential not to conjecture about the emotional state of others facing similar challenges or to downplay the circumstances that could lead to such struggles. Undoubtedly, each of us knows someone, whether directly or through a friend or family member, who has endured such distressing experiences. It’s crucial not to pass judgment on the individual or their family.

We must avoid the error of prejudging individuals solely based on factors like lack of education, financial hardship, or living alone. It’s crucial to recognize that individuals facing these circumstances may indeed be more vulnerable to such temptations. While these factors do play a significant role, research underscores that the absence of supportive social connections, stable employment, or a supportive network increases the likelihood of reaching this point. However, it’s important to acknowledge that anyone, regardless of their background, can experience conditions like depression or anxiety. These struggles are not exclusive to any particular group, and no one should bear the burden alone.

Anticipated Risks

Just as with everything else, not every experience is impacted in the same manner when encountering specific situations. Individual reactions vary significantly in different circumstances. These situations encompass personal, social, community, and relational aspects. What are these diverse risks that we frequently identify before they escalate too far?

Personal Risks

Navigating life’s challenges can be especially taxing for individuals facing a multitude of personal risks. These include:

• Previous suicide attempts
• History of depression or mental illness
• Chronic illness or health problems
• Legal or criminal issues
• Financial or employment problems
• Unstable housing
• Substance abuse or alcohol misuse
• Past experiences of negative childhood events
• Victimization and exposure to violence
• Loss of hope for the future

Social Risks

Stigma associated with seeking mental health care

• Easy access to means to commit suicide
• Poor media reporting on suicide or its absence

 Community Risks

• Lack of access to education and support
• Community violence
• Historical trauma in the community
• Discrimination
• Cultural maladjustment failure
• Exclusion

Risks in Relationships

• Bullying
• Abuse of intimate family members such as parents or children
• Breakdown in marital relationships
• Relationship violence
• Social or familial isolation
• Experience of suicidal thoughts within the family
• Breakdown in communication rapport with children, parents, or other loved ones

Perceptions

Misconceptions can be highly misleading, often rooted in a form of ignorance about the subject. These misperceptions usually arise from individuals who genuinely lack a deeper understanding.

Consider the common belief that asking someone if they are feeling suicidal might implant the idea of suicide in their minds. This notion, however, is far from accurate. In reality, approaching someone who is struggling with suicidal thoughts with sensitivity and concern can be profoundly helpful. It communicates to them that there is someone who genuinely cares about their well-being. It’s not about suggesting the idea of suicide but rather about opening up a dialogue and offering support. This approach can play a crucial role in fostering understanding and potentially saving lives.

Another common perception is that when an individual speaks about attempting suicide, they are simply seeking attention. Alternatively, there’s the belief that if someone is seriously contemplating suicide, there’s little that can be done because the decision has already been made. You might occasionally hear people argue that it’s impossible to dissuade someone from sending certain signals indicating their intent to commit suicide. Perhaps you’ve also encountered the idea that those who take their own lives are selfish, solely concerned with themselves and oblivious to the aftermath they leave behind. Additionally, some may believe that once someone considers ending their life, they will persist in that mindset indefinitely, without hope for recovery.

This is an absolute misconception. Discussing suicide does not imply encouragement for those contemplating it or experiencing distress. On the contrary, the more openly we address the topic, the more we work to dismantle the stigma surrounding seeking help. Asking direct questions is far simpler than assuming everything is fine because we assume a particular individual would never consider such thoughts. When someone in this vulnerable state encounters someone willing to engage in conversation and inquire about their well-being, they may initially feel helpless. However, this interaction can demonstrate that there are people who genuinely care about them. This realization increases the likelihood that they will recognize the availability of help and understand that support is easily accessible and readily obtainable.

Signs of distress

Each and every one of us is obligated to pay attention and offer assistance, or refer individuals who may find themselves in such situations. Individuals experiencing these thoughts often, more often than not, will exhibit signs of being isolated and excluded, even from casual discussions. In some instances, the intent may be premeditated, and this could also be done to make the victim’s close contacts aware that there has been a change in the individual’s attitude or behaviors.

The significance of every spoken word often surpasses our awareness, as we cannot always discern the depth of stress or anxiety another person may be experiencing. Hence, it becomes imperative for us to exercise caution in our choice of words, the tone we employ, and the approach we adopt. It’s more than merely displaying empathy; it’s about understanding that by sharing our experiences and what our close ones are enduring, we enhance our ability to recognize early signs of distress.

Taking occasional pauses amidst the whirlwind of life could prove invaluable. These moments allow us to delve deeper into our interactions, to listen more intently to each other, and to genuinely inquire about someone’s well-being without making assumptions. Because when we make time for one another and for the lives we lead, it undoubtedly enriches us all.

Mario Fava
President