title essay mental health

• Have your assignments done by seasoned writers. 24/7
• Contact us:
• +1 (213) 221-0069
• [email protected]

12 Good Titles for Essays on Mental Health or illness Topics

Mental Health Titles

Our psychological, emotional, and social well-being define our mental health. Mental health is very crucial in all stages of life. It determines how we relate to each other in society.

It also determines how we make choices and handle stress. Your behaviour, mood, and thinking can be affected whenever you experience mental health problems. Mental health problems can be caused by biological factors, family history, and life experiences such as abuse and trauma.

Mental health problems are very common in our society today, but help is available. Being affected by mental health problems is not the end of the world. People suffering from mental health can be treated, get better, and recover completely.

Need Help with your Homework or Essays?

Importance of writing about mental health, providing more information on mental health.

In the world we live in today people may be mentally unwell but they don’t see it. Some don’t know what to do to solve mental health problems.

Writing about mental health can help people understand and know when they have mental health problems and what to do to treat them.

Removing Stigma

The more and more mental health is written about the more likely the society is to forget about all false notions that surround the topic of mental health.

Debunking myths surrounding mental health help remove the stigma surrounding it.

The Increase in Mental Health Disorders

Mental health problems are on the rise. All people, young and old, are facing a lot of challenges that lead to mental health disorders. Writing about mental health will help reach these growing numbers and make them aware of what they are facing and how they can beat it.

Promote Treatment and Reduce Mental Health-Related Suicides

Writing about ways in which mental health can be tackled helps many people emerge victorious in the fight against it. This can massively help reduce suicides that are committed by people suffering from mental disorders.

How to Write a Mental Health Essay?

If you are given a task on writing about mental health, it is important to follow these guidelines:

Using Words That End Stigma

Words, even when not intended to be disparaging, carry a lot of weight on particular groups.

Psycho, crazy, lunatic , and deranged and examples of words that reinforce stereotypes about mental illness.

These words can discourage the affected from taking treatment. 

Respect The Difference Between a Mental Disorder and an Emotion

When football teams lose cup finals, the fans are disappointed and not depressed. Disappointment is a temporary feeling which will go away. It is different from depression.

People who are depressed don’t even know the reason or the symptoms they are having.

Watching a team lose is nervous and anxious, but the agitation cannot prevent the fans from keeping up with their normal routines, unlike victims of anxiety disorder. 

Putting People First

It is correct to say: a person with depression. It is not correct to say: a depressed person. The use of person-first language is important. Avoid the phrasing that could be perceived as describing someone by the illness they are suffering. 

Not Conflicting Mental Illness to Violence or Crime

Mental health writers should not fall into the trap of news reporting that wrongly links mental illness and violent crimes.  Mental health issues should be purely about mental health.

Contrary to what the news show, people suffering from mental health are more likely to be crime victims.

Being Precise, Using Value-Neutral Terminologies, and Avoiding Euphemisms

Phrases like battling and suffer from should be avoided. Suffer from indicates pity and can make one mismanage their illness.

Battling creates a conscious understanding of winners versus losers and simplifies a person’s experience more. People may feel they are not fighting well if they don’t get well.

Generalizations Should Be Avoided

The term mentally ill should not be used. Mental illness is okay as a general term but specific conditions should be used whenever possible. 

Get a Brilliant Essay today!

Let our essay writing experts help you get that A in your next essay. Place your order today, and you will enjoy the benefits.

12 Good Titles for Essays About Mental Health

In this section, we list 12 examples of titles you can adopt for an essay on mental health or mental illness. These are just a few of the many ideas.

We also explain how you can approach it and a short guide on the direction your essay should take. You can read how to structure an essay for more guidance on the best way to approach essays.

1. Contemporary Practical Management Approach to Treating Personality Disorders

Personality disorder treatments in mental health patients in the previous days were based on drugs and medicine.

This research will look to address contemporary practical ways in which the extent of personality disorder affecting the mental state of individuals who have the disease can be managed. 

2. The Impact of Social Media Products On the Wellbeing of Adults

Social media impact studies have only been carried out on teenagers. Adults also use social media platforms and this study will investigate how the platforms can affect their wellbeing.  Is the impact mostly positive or negative?

3. Are Women Likely to Suffer from Mental Disorders Compared to Men? 

This is a comparative analysis of whether women are indeed likely to suffer from mental disorders compared to men.

The role that biological and societal actors play in determining the trend will be provided.

The validity of arguments that show women are likely to suffer mental disorders will be evaluated. 

4. Theoretical Analysis of the Impact of Emotional Attachment on Mental Health

Theories that have been developed around emotional attachment to show how emotional attachment can play a role in harming individual mental health will be analyzed. A lot of theories show how emotional attachment can negatively impact the mental well-being of an individual. 

5. Roles Parents Play in Determining the Mental Wellbeing of Their Children

It is assumed that when children reach a certain age, parents stop playing their roles in ensuring the mental health and well-being of their children.

This essay will show that even when children become adults their relationships with their parents will always a role in how their mental wellbeing is transformed. 

6. How Social Media Friendships Contribute to Poor Mental Health

This essay will seek to explain the different mindsets of people in the world today. It will further address how social media networking and friendships can lead to poor mental health.

It will assess how social media lead to a lack of self-acceptance, self-comparison, self-pity, self-loathing, and depression. 

7. How Poor Mental Health Can Impact Your Physical Health

This study will seek to know all the side effects of poor mental health on the body of the affected. Many people in society believe that physical ailments are caused by deteriorating mental health in individuals.

The study will also suggest treatments for many physical ailments that are caused by poor mental wellbeing. 

8. Impact of Television Adverts On the Mental Health O Children

How can television advertising affect the mental development of young children? Many children watch television. It has been established that television advertising can harm the mental health of children.

9. The Relationship Between Mental Health and Unemployment

This topic aims to address problems that are faced by individuals after mental blocks develop due to unemployment. It will play a part in reducing the number of people depressed due to unemployment in the future.

10. The Impact of Coronavirus On the Mental Health of People

Death, isolations, and quarantines caused by the spread of coronavirus have hurt the mental health of the victims, their families and, health workers. All the impacts the virus has had on the mental health o people will be addressed.

11. Mental Health Problems That the Minority in The Society Are Likely to Ace

This essay seeks to investigate mental problems on minority groups of people that are caused by discrimination, physical abuse, societal abuse, and unfair acts at their workplaces. The study seeks to address these issues to promote harmony, equality, and diversity. 

12. Effectiveness of The Provision of Mental Health Care Services. 

Have mental health care services helped control the rates of mental health? Are people aware of these services? Is the importance of the services being felt in society?

Josh Jasen or JJ as we fondly call him, is a senior academic editor at Grade Bees in charge of the writing department. When not managing complex essays and academic writing tasks, Josh is busy advising students on how to pass assignments. In his spare time, he loves playing football or walking with his dog around the park.

Related posts

essay writing problems

10 Essay Writing Problems and their Easy Solutions

writing essay on your phone

How to Write an Essay or paper on your Phone: 3 Easy Ways

essay writing is important

7 reasons why Writing is Important in College & in Life

Presentations made painless

• Get Premium

113 Mental Health Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, yet it is often overlooked or stigmatized in society. Writing about mental health can help raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote understanding and empathy. If you are looking for inspiration for your next mental health essay, here are 113 topic ideas and examples to get you started.

• The impact of social media on mental health
• The stigma surrounding mental illness in society
• How to support a loved one with a mental health condition
• The benefits of therapy for mental health
• The relationship between physical and mental health
• The role of exercise in improving mental health
• Mental health in the workplace
• The connection between trauma and mental health
• The importance of self-care for mental health
• Mental health in the elderly population
• The impact of substance abuse on mental health
• The role of genetics in mental health conditions
• The relationship between sleep and mental health
• Mental health in the LGBTQ+ community
• The effects of chronic stress on mental health
• The link between nutrition and mental health
• Mental health in children and adolescents
• The impact of technology on mental health
• The benefits of mindfulness for mental health
• Mental health in marginalized communities
• The role of medication in treating mental health conditions
• Mental health in the military
• The connection between mental health and creativity
• The impact of climate change on mental health
• Mental health in the criminal justice system
• The effects of bullying on mental health
• The relationship between mental health and homelessness
• The role of music therapy in mental health treatment
• Mental health in the refugee population
• The impact of childhood trauma on adult mental health
• The benefits of art therapy for mental health
• The effects of social isolation on mental health
• The role of spirituality in mental health
• Mental health in the immigrant population
• The connection between mental health and physical illness
• The impact of peer pressure on mental health
• The benefits of journaling for mental health
• Mental health in the entertainment industry
• The relationship between perfectionism and mental health
• The effects of social comparison on mental health
• The role of pets in improving mental health
• Mental health in the age of technology
• The connection between mental health and climate change
• The impact of social media influencers on mental health
• The benefits of volunteering for mental health
• Mental health in the education system
• The relationship between mental health and addiction
• The effects of discrimination on mental health
• The role of exercise in preventing mental health conditions
• Mental health in the aging population
• The connection between mental health and chronic illness
• The impact of poverty on mental health
• The benefits of group therapy for mental health
• The relationship between mental health and personality traits
• The effects of childhood neglect on adult mental health
• The role of mindfulness in preventing mental health conditions
• The connection between mental health and physical health
• The impact of social media on body image and mental health
• The benefits of cognitive-behavioral therapy for mental health
• The relationship between mental health and financial stress
• The effects of trauma on mental health
• The relationship between mental health and social support

These are just a few ideas to get you started on your mental health essay. Remember, mental health is a complex and multifaceted topic, so feel free to explore different angles and perspectives in your writing. By shedding light on mental health issues, you can help promote understanding, empathy, and support for those who may be struggling.

Want to create a presentation now?

Instantly Create A Deck

Let PitchGrade do this for me

Hassle Free

We will create your text and designs for you. Sit back and relax while we do the work.

Explore More Content

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

© 2023 Pitchgrade

• Essay Editor

Mental Health Essay

Introduction

Mental health, often overshadowed by its physical counterpart, is an intricate and essential aspect of human existence. It envelops our emotions, psychological state, and social well-being, shaping our thoughts, behaviors, and interactions. With the complexities of modern life—constant connectivity, societal pressures, personal expectations, and the frenzied pace of technological advancements—mental well-being has become increasingly paramount. Historically, conversations around this topic have been hushed, shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding. However, as the curtains of misconception slowly lift, we find ourselves in an era where discussions about mental health are not only welcomed but are also seen as vital. Recognizing and addressing the nuances of our mental state is not merely about managing disorders; it's about understanding the essence of who we are, how we process the world around us, and how we navigate the myriad challenges thrown our way. This essay aims to delve deep into the realm of mental health, shedding light on its importance, the potential consequences of neglect, and the spectrum of mental disorders that many face in silence.

Importance of Mental Health

Mental health plays a pivotal role in determining how individuals think, feel, and act. It influences our decision-making processes, stress management techniques, interpersonal relationships, and even our physical health. A well-tuned mental state boosts productivity, creativity, and the intrinsic sense of self-worth, laying the groundwork for a fulfilling life.

Negative Impact of Mental Health

Neglecting mental health, on the other hand, can lead to severe consequences. Reduced productivity, strained relationships, substance abuse, physical health issues like heart diseases, and even reduced life expectancy are just some of the repercussions of poor mental health. It not only affects the individual in question but also has a ripple effect on their community, workplace, and family.

Mental Disorders: Types and Prevalence

Mental disorders are varied and can range from anxiety and mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder to more severe conditions such as schizophrenia.

• Depression: Characterized by persistent sadness, lack of interest in activities, and fatigue.
• Anxiety Disorders: Encompass conditions like generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks, and specific phobias.
• Schizophrenia: A complex disorder affecting a person's ability to think, feel, and behave clearly.

The prevalence of these disorders has been on the rise, underscoring the need for comprehensive mental health initiatives and awareness campaigns.

Understanding Mental Health and Its Importance

Mental health is not merely the absence of disorders but encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Recognizing the signs of deteriorating mental health, like prolonged sadness, extreme mood fluctuations, or social withdrawal, is crucial. Understanding stems from awareness and education. Societal stigmas surrounding mental health have often deterred individuals from seeking help. Breaking these barriers, fostering open conversations, and ensuring access to mental health care are imperative steps.

Conclusion: Mental Health

Mental health, undeniably, is as significant as physical health, if not more. In an era where the stressors are myriad, from societal pressures to personal challenges, mental resilience and well-being are essential. Investing time and resources into mental health initiatives, and more importantly, nurturing a society that understands, respects, and prioritizes mental health is the need of the hour.

• World Leaders: Several influential personalities, from celebrities to sports stars, have openly discussed their mental health challenges, shedding light on the universality of these issues and the importance of addressing them.
• Workplaces: Progressive organizations are now incorporating mental health programs, recognizing the tangible benefits of a mentally healthy workforce, from increased productivity to enhanced creativity.
• Educational Institutions: Schools and colleges, witnessing the effects of stress and other mental health issues on students, are increasingly integrating counseling services and mental health education in their curriculum.

In weaving through the intricate tapestry of mental health, it becomes evident that it's an area that requires collective attention, understanding, and action.

  Short Essay about Mental Health

Mental health, an integral facet of human well-being, shapes our emotions, decisions, and daily interactions. Just as one would care for a sprained ankle or a fever, our minds too require attention and nurture. In today's bustling world, mental well-being is often put on the back burner, overshadowed by the immediate demands of life. Yet, its impact is pervasive, influencing our productivity, relationships, and overall quality of life.

Sadly, mental health issues have long been stigmatized, seen as a sign of weakness or dismissed as mere mood swings. However, they are as real and significant as any physical ailment. From anxiety to depression, these disorders have touched countless lives, often in silence due to societal taboos.

But change is on the horizon. As awareness grows, conversations are shifting from hushed whispers to open discussions, fostering understanding and support. Institutions, workplaces, and communities are increasingly acknowledging the importance of mental health, implementing programs, and offering resources.

In conclusion, mental health is not a peripheral concern but a central one, crucial to our holistic well-being. It's high time we prioritize it, eliminating stigma and fostering an environment where everyone feels supported in their mental health journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the primary focus of a mental health essay?

Answer: The primary focus of a mental health essay is to delve into the intricacies of mental well-being, its significance in our daily lives, the various challenges people face, and the broader societal implications. It aims to shed light on both the psychological and emotional aspects of mental health, often emphasizing the importance of understanding, empathy, and proactive care.

• How can writing an essay on mental health help raise awareness about its importance?

Answer: Writing an essay on mental health can effectively articulate the nuances and complexities of the topic, making it more accessible to a wider audience. By presenting facts, personal anecdotes, and research, the essay can demystify misconceptions, highlight the prevalence of mental health issues, and underscore the need for destigmatizing discussions around it. An impactful essay can ignite conversations, inspire action, and contribute to a more informed and empathetic society.

• What are some common topics covered in a mental health essay?

Answer: Common topics in a mental health essay might include the definition and importance of mental health, the connection between mental and physical well-being, various mental disorders and their symptoms, societal stigmas and misconceptions, the impact of modern life on mental health, and the significance of therapy and counseling. It may also delve into personal experiences, case studies, and the broader societal implications of neglecting mental health.

Related articles

Literary analysis essay example: discover how to analyze literature and improve your writing skills.

Creating a literary analysis essay is one of the most interesting assignments during college and high school studies. It needs both good text interpreting and analytical skills. The number of proper forms is great, including short stories and novels, poems and ballads, comedies and dramas. Any literary work may be analyzed. In brief, when writing this paper a student should give a summary of the text and a detailed review of the language, structure, and other stuff the author used to express hi ...

Biographical Essay: Tips and Tricks for Writing a Perfect Biography

Biographical essays are some of the most common texts you can find on the Internet. When you browse a Wiki article about your favorite singer, you are basically reading a biography paper. However, in academia, there are certain rules students need to follow to get perfect marks for their papers. In this article, we will explore what a biographical essay is, why it matters, and how to write an essay about a person. What is a biographical essay? A biographical essay is a paper that focuses on ...

Create a Perfect Essay Structure

Hello Aithors! We're back again with another feature highlight. Today, we want to talk about a tool that can be a game-changer for your essay writing process - our Table of Contents tool. Writing an essay isn't just about getting your ideas down on paper. It's about presenting them in a clear, structured way that makes sense to your reader. However, figuring out the best structure for your essay can sometimes be a tough nut to crack. That's why we developed the Table of Contents feature. The b ...

Proposal Essay Examples: Convincing Ideas for Your Research Paper or Essay

Struggling to craft a captivating and well-built proposal essay? Many students find it challenging to compose a proposal-based essay and struggle to generate convincing ideas. If this sounds familiar, read on. In this comprehensive guide, we streamline the process of brainstorming and composing work, offering resources like suggestions on how to write a proposal essay, suggested steps when writing, useful examples, and efficient essay-crafting tips. Developed through several years of expertise ...

How To Write Reflection Essays

How often do you contemplate how the tapestry of your experiences shapes your thoughts? A reflection paper lets you explore that. It's like deep diving into your life’s precious moments, examining how stories, books, events, or even lectures have influenced your views. This type of academic essay integrates a personal perspective, allowing you to openly express your opinions. In this guide, we will delve into the specifics of reflective writing, share some tips, and show some self-reflection es ...

How to Write an Evaluation Essay That Engages and Persuades: Helpful Tips and Inspiring Examples

Are you feeling unsure about how to effectively evaluate a subject from your own perspective in an evaluation essay? If you're struggling to understand how to present a balanced assessment, don't worry! We're here to guide you through the process of writing an evaluation that showcases your critical thinking skills. What Is an Evaluation Essay?  An evaluation essay is a type of writing in which the writer gives their opinion on a topic. You look at something carefully and think about how good ...

Ace Your Graduation Speech with Aithor

Hello, Aithors! Can you feel it? That's the buzz of graduation season in the air:) And while we're all about the caps flying and the proud smiles, we also know that being asked to write a graduation speech can feel a bit like being handed a mountain to climb. Crafting a graduation speech is all about capturing the spirit of the journey you've been on, from the triumphs to the trials, and everything in between. It's a reflection of where you've been, and a beacon of light pointing towards where ...

Will I Get Caught Using Chat GPT?

ChatGPT has been around for a little over a year but already found popularity among all groups of users. School and college students have taken a particular liking to it. However, many students avoid using the chatbot for fear that their teacher might catch them. Read this article to learn more about ChatGPT, its features, and whether your teacher can actually find out if you use it for your homework. What is Chat GPT? ChatGPT was first introduced to the world in November 2022. At the time, ...

Mental Health Research Topics

Recently, mental health has become an increasingly prevalent and critical topic of discussion. From the stresses of work and school to the challenges of maintaining relationships and navigating societal pressures, individuals are facing a myriad of mental health concerns. 

In this article, we dive into the complexities of mental health topics, ranging from anxiety and depression to coping mechanisms and seeking professional help. By shedding light on these issues and offering insights into understanding, managing, and supporting mental well-being, we aim to empower individuals to prioritize their mental health and foster a culture of openness and compassion surrounding mental health discussions. If your schedule is too hectic, simply say, ‘ write my essay ,’ and our experts will help you relieve the workload.

Already Found a Great Mental Health Topic?

Use our service to obtain a good research paper if your schedule is tight.

200 Mental Health Research Paper Topics

In this section, we explore various mental health topics, providing insights, strategies, and resources to support individuals on their journey towards mental wellness.

Good Research Topics About Mental Health

• Social media's impact on teen mental health.
• Coping with stress in college.
• Exercise and mental well-being.
• Work stress management techniques.
• Family support and depression.
• Mental health stigma in rural areas.
• Mindfulness for PTSD.
• Diet's effect on mental health.
• LGBTQ+ youth mental health.
• Burnout among healthcare workers.
• Early experiences and adult mental health.
• Sleep quality and mood disorders.
• Culture and mental illness.
• Suicide prevention in teens.
• Tech use and mental well-being.
• Online therapy effectiveness.
• Psychology of long-term unemployment.
• Chronic illness and mental health.
• Peer support for addiction recovery.
• Elderly mental health in nursing homes.

Mental Health Research Topics for High School Students

• Social media's impact on teen self-esteem.
• Stress management during exams.
• Peer pressure and mental health.
• Mindfulness for teen anxiety.
• Bullying's mental health effects.
• Academic pressure and depression.
• Sleep's role in teen mental health.
• Gender differences in seeking help.
• Extracurriculars and mental health.
• Teenage mental health stigma.
• Family dynamics and teen mental health.
• Social support for teens.
• Cultural attitudes on teen mental health.
• Building resilience in adolescents.
• Exercise and mood in teens.
• Screen time and mental health.
• Peer-led mental health initiatives.
• Eating disorders in high schoolers.
• Substance abuse and mental health.
• School mental health programs.

Mental Health Research Topics for College Students

• Academic stress and mental health.
• Social media's impact on college students.
• Campus mental health services effectiveness.
• Sleep quality and mental well-being.
• Depression and anxiety prevalence.
• Financial stress and mental health.
• Coping with homesickness in college.
• Identity exploration and mental health.
• Substance use and college mental health.
• International students' mental health needs.
• Perfectionism and mental health.
• Tech use and psychological well-being.
• Stigma around mental health help-seeking.
• Peer support on campus.
• Relationships and mental health.
• Academic pressure, sleep, and mental health.
• Mental health of student-athletes.
• Cultural identity and mental health.
• Social isolation among students.
• Stress management workshops' impact.

Sociology Research Topics on Mental Health

• Societal stigma and mental illness.
• Socioeconomic status and mental health access.
• Cultural perspectives on mental health.
• Gender differences in mental health treatment.
• Family influence on mental health attitudes.
• Social constructions of mental illness.
• Mental health in marginalized communities.
• Social support and well-being.
• Race, gender, and mental health.
• Policies addressing mental health needs.
• Media portrayal of mental illness.
• Community-based mental health initiatives.
• Urbanization and mental health challenges.
• Loneliness and mental well-being.
• Religion, spirituality, and mental health.
• Employment status and mental health.
• Education's role in mental health.
• Social determinants of mental well-being.
• Mental health in the criminal justice system.
• Peer support for stigma reduction.

Mental Health Research Topics for Nursing Students

• Nurses' role in mental health awareness.
• Anxiety disorder nursing interventions.
• Combatting mental health stigma in nursing.
• Trauma-informed care in psychiatric nursing.
• Therapeutic communication's impact in mental health.
• Medication management in psychiatric nursing.
• Suicide risk assessment and interventions.
• Self-care for mental health nurses.
• Holistic approaches in mental health nursing.
• Cultural competence in mental health care.
• Nursing interventions for mood disorders.
• Family support in mental health nursing.
• Adolescent mental health nursing.
• Evidence-based practices in psychiatric nursing.
• Nursing care for schizophrenia patients.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration in mental health care.
• Substance use disorder nursing support.
• Challenges and rewards of psychiatric nursing.
• Crisis intervention in mental health nursing.
• Ethical considerations in mental health care.

If you’re a medical student, use our nursing writing services to handle the workload and keep your GPA high.

Mental Illness Topics for Research Paper

• Genetics and environment in schizophrenia.
• Neurotransmitters in depression treatment.
• Neurobiology of anxiety disorders.
• Childhood trauma and borderline personality disorder.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy for OCD.
• Early intervention for psychosis.
• Substance abuse and mood disorders.
• Culture and eating disorder treatment.
• Neurodevelopmental pathways in autism.
• Inflammation in bipolar disorder.
• Social determinants of mental illness.
• Stigma and mental health treatment.
• Peer support for schizophrenia.
• Sleep disturbances and psychiatric disorders.
• Social media and body image issues.
• Stress, trauma, and cognition.
• Epigenetics and anxiety disorders.
• Art therapy for mood disorders.
• Gut microbiota and mental health.

Adolescent Mental Health Research Topics

• Social media and adolescent mental health.
• Bullying's impact on teens.
• Adolescent depression prevalence and risks.
• Academic pressure and teen anxiety.
• Substance use among adolescents.
• Gender identity and teen mental health.
• Peer relationships and well-being.
• Mindfulness for adolescent stress reduction.
• Trauma's effect on teen mental health.
• Stigma around teen mental health.
• Sleep patterns and teen mental well-being.
• Culture and adolescent mental illness.
• Socioeconomic status and mental health services access.
• Technology use and teen mental well-being.
• Suicide prevention strategies for teens.
• Peer pressure and mental health risks.
• Resilience-building in at-risk teens.
• School-based mental health interventions.

Social Justice Research Topics Around Mental Health

• Mental health disparities in marginalized groups.
• Racism and mental health outcomes.
• Access to mental health care for underserved communities.
• Cultural competence in treatment.
• Combatting stigma in diverse populations.
• LGBTQ+ mental health rights.
• Intersectionality in mental health.
• Indigenous mental health and decolonization efforts.
• Advocating for equitable mental health policies.
• Environmental justice and mental well-being.
• Trauma-informed care in justice systems.
• Refugee and immigrant mental health challenges.
• Disability justice and mental health inclusion.
• Gender equity in mental health services.
• Ethics in global mental health initiatives.
• Mental health impact of incarceration.
• Community-based mental health support.
• Anti-oppressive practices in mental health care.
• Ensuring justice in psychiatric care.

Mental Health Counseling Research Topics

• Online counseling effectiveness.
• Technology integration in counseling.
• Cultural competence in therapy.
• Group therapy outcomes.
• Burnout prevention for counselors.
• Rapport and therapeutic success.
• Expressive arts therapy in counseling.
• Teletherapy benefits and challenges.
• Trauma-informed counseling effectiveness.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy outcomes.
• Spirituality in counseling.
• Mindfulness techniques in therapy.
• Counselor training impact.
• Narrative therapy effectiveness.
• Cultural humility in counseling.
• Animal-assisted therapy in counseling.
• Family systems theory application.
• Solution-focused brief therapy outcomes.
• Counselor self-disclosure impact.
• Ethical considerations in counseling.

Mental Health Research Topics on Behavioral Issues

• Childhood trauma and adult behavioral issues.
• Parenting styles and child behavior.
• Peer influence on adolescent behavior.
• Substance abuse and behavioral disorders.
• ADHD and conduct disorder.
• Aggression reduction interventions.
• Genetics and behavioral issues.
• Early intervention for behavioral problems.
• Media violence and child aggression.
• Screen time and adolescent behavior.
• Socioeconomic status and behavioral disorders.
• School environments and behavior.
• Sleep disturbances and behavior.
• Trauma-informed care impact.
• Mindfulness for disruptive behavior.
• Nutrition and child behavior.
• Attachment theory and behavior.
• Adverse childhood experiences and behavior.
• Technology addiction and behavior.
• Family therapy for behavioral problems.

If you haven’t decided which medical career path to choose, we suggest pursuing a healthcare management degree .

Mental Health Research Topic Checklist

Determining if your mental health research topic is great involves assessing several key aspects:

• Relevance: Is it timely and aligned with current mental health issues?
• Significance: Does it address important questions or challenges?
• Originality: Does it offer new insights or perspectives?
• Feasibility: Can it be researched effectively, given available resources?
• Interest: Are you genuinely passionate about the topic?
• Impact: Will it advance knowledge, inform practice, or influence policy?
• Clarity : Is the research question clear and well-defined?

By the way, we have discovered the best mental health app , which can be a source of inspiration for your research.

How to Choose Research Topics About Mental Health

Choosing research topics about mental health involves a thoughtful process. Here are some steps to guide you:

• Identify your interests

Start by reflecting on your interests within the broad field of mental health. What topics resonate with you personally or professionally? Consider areas you are passionate about or curious to learn more about.

• Review existing literature

Conduct a literature review to explore current research in mental health. Identify gaps, controversies, or areas where further investigation is needed. Look for topics that have sufficient existing research but still offer room for new insights or perspectives.

• Consider societal relevance

Think about the societal relevance and impact of potential research topics. Consider issues that are timely, pressing, or have practical implications for individuals, communities, or policymakers.

• Assess feasibility

Evaluate the feasibility of researching each topic. Consider factors such as access to data, resources, ethical considerations, and your expertise or skills. Choose a topic that you can realistically investigate within the constraints of your research context.

Final Thought

Studying mental health in college is important because it helps students learn how our minds work and handle our mental well-being. It also teaches us to understand and support others who may be going through tough times. 

By studying mental health, students can gain insights into the different factors that affect our mental well-being, like biology, emotions, relationships, and environment. To become a medical aid professional, you should also learn about the healthcare consultant requirements . 

Need a Good Mental Health Research Topic?

Let our experts brainstorm a great topic and deliver a tailored paper overnight!

How to Do Research in Mental Health?

What are the research topics for mental health of students, what are some good mental health topics.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

• Research Projects | Centre for Global Mental Health . (n.d.). Centre for Global Mental Health. https://www.centreforglobalmentalhealth.org/research-projects  
• Health Topics . (n.d.). National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics  
• Mental Health research topics . (2023, July 26). https://www.otago.ac.nz/mental-health-research/topics  

Related Articles

332 Mental Health Essay Topics & Mental Illness Ideas

• Icon Calendar 18 May 2024
• Icon Page 2723 words
• Icon Clock 13 min read

Mental health essay topics include a crucial aspect of human well-being with diverse facets, offering many subjects to study about. Some themes may range from the psychology of happiness, exploring how positive thinking influences people’s well-being, to the neurobiology of mental illnesses, detailing how brain chemistry contributes to disorders, like depression, stress, or anxiety. Students can analyze the societal stigmas associated with mental health and its causes and how they impact those suffering. Alternatively, they may delve Into the efficacy and ethical considerations of various therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or the use of psychedelic drugs in treatment. The intersectionality of mental health with race, gender, and socioeconomic status also provides good ideas. In turn, one can explore the role of resilience and coping strategies in maintaining mental health, offering hopeful insights amidst the challenges.

Best Mental Health Topics

• Stigma and Self-Perception in Bipolar Disorder Patients
• Social Media Influence on Adolescent Anxiety Disorders
• Holistic Approaches to Depression Treatment
• Psychotherapy Efficacy in Managing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Sleep Disorders
• Mindfulness Practices in Reducing Burnout among Healthcare Professionals
• Effects of Pandemics on Population-Wide Mental Health
• Comorbidity of Substance Use Disorders and Depression
• Early Childhood Trauma and Adult Mental Health Disorders
• Eating Disorders in Athletes: Underexplored Realities
• Art Therapy Applications in Alzheimer’s Disease Management
• Resilience Training in School Systems to Cope With Stress
• Cultural Nuances in Mental Health Diagnoses and Treatment
• Pharmacological Interventions in Managing Schizophrenia
• Internet Gaming Disorder: Contemporary Challenges
• Stress Management Techniques for Police Officers
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Adult Populations
• Investigating Efficacy of Group Therapy for Social Anxiety Disorder
• Neurofeedback Therapy in Treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Simple Mental Health Topics

• Understanding Anxiety Disorders: Causes and Coping Mechanisms
• Mind-Body Connection in Stress Management
• Art Therapy and Its Therapeutic Effects
• Exploring the Dynamics of Eating Disorders
• Link Between Physical Exercise and Mental Well-Being
• Dementia Care: Therapeutic Approaches
• Tackling Depression With Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Neurobiology of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Social Media Usage and Adolescent Mental Health
• Techniques for Managing Workplace Burnout
• Psychoeducation in Bipolar Disorder Treatment
• Autism Spectrum Disorders: Diagnostic Challenges
• Influence of Lifestyle Choices on Mental Health
• Understanding Psychosis: Symptoms and Treatment
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Techniques
• Pharmacological Treatment of Schizophrenia
• Managing Chronic Pain: Psychological Aspects
• Effectiveness of Family Therapy in Substance Abuse Treatment
• Examining Mental Health Issues in the LGBTQ+ Community

Interesting Mental Health Essay Topics

• Post-Traumatic Growth: Harnessing Resilience After Trauma
• Exploration of Therapeutic Effects of Music
• Emotional Intelligence and Mental Well-Being
• Psychotherapy Advancements in Treating Phobias
• Maternal Mental Health and Infant Development
• Complementary and Alternative Treatments for Depression
• Sleep Disorders: Effect on Mental Health
• Influence of Virtual Reality Therapy on PTSD
• Behavioral Addictions: Gaming and Gambling
• Therapeutic Benefits of Nature on Mental Health
• Animal-Assisted Therapy for Mental Disorders
• Emotional Regulation Techniques in Borderline Personality Disorder
• Cyberbullying and Its Psychological Consequences
• Mindfulness Meditation and Its Influence on Anxiety
• Mental Health Stigma in Different Cultures
• Genetic Markers in Major Depressive Disorder
• Perception of Reality in Individuals With Schizophrenia
• Innovative Telepsychiatry Practices for Remote Areas
• Dealing With Grief and Loss: Therapeutic Strategies
• Understanding the Psychological Impact of Chronic Illness

Mental Health Essay Topics

• Suicide Prevention Strategies in Mental Health Care
• Art Therapy and Its Healing Potential in Mental Disorders
• Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Clinical and Diagnostic Perspectives
• Depression in the Elderly: Causes and Treatment
• Influence of Social Media on Teenagers’ Mental Health
• Mental Health Consequences of Long-Term Unemployment
• Relationship Between Nutrition and Mental Health
• Mental Health Challenges in LGBTQ+ Communities
• Exploration of Psychosocial Interventions in Bipolar Disorder
• Workplace Mental Health: Policies and Practices
• Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Neurodevelopmental Approach
• Integration of Yoga in Mental Health Treatment
• Cyberpsychology: Exploring Online Behavior and Mental Health
• Mental Health Literacy among College Students
• Mental Health Implications of Climate Change
• Adverse Childhood Experiences and Adult Mental Health
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Cultural Competence in Mental Health Counseling
• Postpartum Depression: Recognition and Intervention
• Emotional Trauma in First Responders: A Study of Coping Mechanisms

Mental Health Argumentative Essay Topics

• Parental Influence on Childhood Mental Health Disorders
• Digital Technology’s Potential for Exacerbating Mental Health Issues
• Stigma and Discrimination: Barriers to Mental Health Care Access
• Assessing the Efficacy of Mandatory Mental Health Screenings in Schools
• Psychotherapy Versus Pharmacology in Depression Treatment
• Societal Contribution to Anxiety Disorders in Young Adults
• Isolation of Quarantine and Its Implications on Mental Well-Being
• Debate on Legitimacy of Internet Addiction as a Mental Health Disorder
• Correlation Between Violent Video Games and Youth Mental Health
• Benefits and Dangers of Self-Diagnosis in Mental Health
• Animal Assisted Therapy in Mental Health: Valid Approach or Not?
• Mindfulness Practices: Effective Coping Mechanism or Passing Trend?
• The Reality of Body Positivity Movement: Empowerment or Ignoring Health Issues?
• Acceptance of Mental Health Disorders as Genuine Health Conditions
• Validity of Including Mental Health Education in School Curriculum
• Involuntary Commitment in Mental Health: Protection or Violation?
• Efficacy of Art and Music Therapy in Treating Mental Disorders
• Holistic Health Approaches: Superior to Traditional Mental Health Treatments?
• Debate on the Criminal Justice System’s Treatment of Mental Health

Mental Health Persuasive Essay Topics

• Dedicated Mental Health Classes in Schools: Essential Curriculum Addition
• Prioritizing Mental Health Over Productivity in Corporate Environments
• Mandatory Psychological Evaluation for Firearm Purchasers
• Psychotherapy Should Be More Accessible than Psychotropic Medication
• Inclusion of Mental Health Discussions in Public Discourse
• Fitness and Its Integral Connection to Mental Well-Being
• Mental Health Parity in Health Insurance Coverage
• Elderly Mental Health: Ignored Aspect of Geriatric Care
• Psychological Consequences of Climate Change: Unrecognized Public Health Crisis
• Artificial Intelligence as a Tool for Mental Health Diagnosis
• Reducing Veteran Suicide Rates: Improved Mental Health Services
• Influence of Media in Misrepresentation of Mental Illness
• Universal Mental Health Screening: A Public Health Necessity
• Investing in Mental Health: Solution to Homelessness
• Teacher Training on Student Mental Health: A Requirement, not a Choice
• Influence of Cyberbullying on Adolescent Mental Health
• Psychological Effects of Long-Term Unemployment: Unseen Consequences
• Self-Care Practices as Part of Mental Health Prevention Strategy
• Psychological Impact of Body Shaming on Social Media

Mental Health Controversial Topics for Essays

• Compulsory Mental Health Assessments for School Children
• Mental Health Disorders as Grounds for Employment Discrimination
• Antidepressants Overuse and the Rise of Suicidal Thoughts
• Legalization of Psychedelics for Mental Health Treatments
• Digital Devices Addiction as a Recognized Mental Health Disorder
• Overdiagnosis of ADHD in American Children
• Psychological Effects of Single Parenting: Neglected Aspect or Stereotype
• Debate on Mental Illness as a Legal Defense
• Social Media’s Contribution to Anxiety Disorders
• Genetic Engineering for Mental Health Disorders: Ethical Conundrum
• Forced Hospitalization of Patients With Severe Mental Illness
• Hormone Replacement Therapy: Lifesaver or Mental Health Hazard
• Link Between Veganism and Mental Health
• Placebo Effect in Mental Health Treatments: Ethical or Deceptive
• Psychological Impact of Transracial Adoption
• Artificial Intelligence in Psychotherapy: Revolution or Threat
• Spirituality and Religion’s Influence on Mental Health
• Mental Health Stigma in the LGBTQ+ Community
• Gambling Addiction: A Financial or Mental Health Issue
• Right to Die Legislation: Mental Health Consequences for Survivors

Mental Health Debate Topics

• Psychiatric Medication Versus Holistic Approaches
• Government Surveillance: A Threat to Mental Health
• Mandatory Therapy for Law Enforcement Officers
• Safeguarding Mental Health in the Digital Age
• Psychedelic Therapy: Unconventional Innovation or Risky Practice
• Perils and Promises of Teletherapy
• Mental Health Curriculum in Schools: Need or Excess
• Involuntary Admission of Mental Health Patients
• Normalization of Eating Disorders in Media
• Prison System’s Approach to Mental Health
• Assisted Suicide for the Mentally Ill
• Mental Health Treatment: Right or Privilege
• Screen Time: A Major Contributor to Childhood Mental Disorders
• Emotional Support Animals: Therapeutic or Placebo
• Postpartum Depression: Underestimated Condition or Overdiagnosis
• Use of Hypnosis in Mental Health Therapy
• Influence of Body Shaming on Mental Health
• Stress Management: Personal Responsibility or Employer’s Duty
• Microdosing Psychedelics for Mental Health Treatment

Mental Illness Essay Topics

• Cultural Differences in Mental Illness Interpretation
• Media Portrayal of Mental Illness: Stigma Perpetuation
• Psychiatric Service Dogs: Validity and Usefulness
• Living With Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Personal Narratives
• Psychotherapy vs. Medication in Treating Depression
• Mental Illness Among Prison Population: A Neglected Crisis
• Navigating Eating Disorders: Understanding Anorexia and Bulimia
• Mental Illness Representation in the Film Industry
• Biological Basis of Schizophrenia: Unraveling the Enigma
• History of Mental Illness Treatments: From Asylums to Modern Care
• Childhood Trauma as a Root of Adult Mental Illness
• Complexities of Diagnosing Borderline Personality Disorder
• Depression among College Students: Underlying Causes
• Misconceptions Surrounding Dissociative Identity Disorder
• Social Anxiety Disorder: Unveiling the Hidden Epidemic
• Mental Illness among Indigenous Populations: Forgotten Issues
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Veterans: Untold Stories
• Exploring the Intricacies of Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Understanding Addiction: Substance Use Disorders as Mental Illnesses

Mental Illness Argumentative Essay Topics

• Medicalization of Grief: Appropriate Response or Overreaction
• Pharmaceutical Industry’s Influence on Mental Illness Diagnosis
• Police Intervention in Mental Health Crises: Effective or Harmful
• Public Perception of Schizophrenia: Misunderstanding or Stigma
• Internet Addiction: True Disorder or Social Construct
• Workplace Burnout as a Serious Mental Illness
• Patient Autonomy in Psychiatric Treatment
• Stigmatization of Antidepressant Use in Society
• Criminal Responsibility of Individuals With Mental Illness
• Genetic Testing for Predicting Mental Illness: Ethical or Not
• Artificial Intelligence in Mental Health Care: Innovation or Threat
• Isolation and Loneliness: Causes or Consequences of Mental Illness
• Gender Dysphoria: Mental Illness or Identity Issue
• Internet’s Role in Increasing Body Dysmorphia
• Overdiagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
• Bipolar Disorder: Underestimated Condition or Misdiagnosed
• Integration of Traditional Healing in Mental Health Care
• Cyberbullying and Its Relationship to Mental Illness
• Childhood Vaccinations and Autism: Fact or Fiction
• Mental Illness in Homeless Populations: Cause or Effect

Mental Illness Persuasive Essay Topics

• Normalization of Mental Illness Conversations in Schools
• Advocating for Better Mental Health Policies at Workplaces
• De-Stigmatization of Mental Illness in the Media
• Promotion of Comprehensive Mental Health Education
• Improving Accessibility of Mental Health Services for Rural Areas
• Elevating Mental Health Awareness in Professional Sports
• Securing Comprehensive Mental Health Coverage in Insurance Policies
• Mandatory Mental Health Screenings for High-Risk Professions
• Psychiatric Service Dogs: A Case for Widespread Adoption
• Emphasizing Trauma-Informed Care in Mental Health Practices
• Highlighting the Need for Postpartum Depression Support
• Integration of Mental Health Into General Healthcare Services
• Development of Specialized Mental Health Services for the Elderly
• Increasing Funding for Mental Illness Research
• Advocating for Improved Suicide Prevention Programs
• Campaigning for Improved Mental Health Services in Prisons
• Promotion of Culturally Sensitive Mental Health Care
• Advancement of Personalized Medicine in Psychiatry
• Emphasizing the Importance of Early Mental Illness Detection
• Reformation of Mental Health Policies in Educational Institutions

Mental Illness Informative Essay Topics

• Understanding Schizophrenia: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments
• Depression across Lifespan: A Detailed Examination
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Closer Look
• Dissecting Autism Spectrum Disorder in Adults
• Children and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
• Bipolar Disorder: Unraveling the Complexities
• Eating Disorders: A Comprehensive Overview
• Exploring Anxiety Disorders and Their Manifestations
• Insights Into Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Dementia in the Aging Population: A Comprehensive Analysis
• Demystifying Dissociative Identity Disorder
• Postpartum Depression: Its Causes and Consequences
• Diving Into the World of Personality Disorders
• Panic Disorder: Understanding Its Triggers and Effects
• Tourette Syndrome and Its Challenges
• Borderline Personality Disorder: Symptoms and Coping Mechanisms
• Exploring the Realm of Somatoform Disorders
• Insights Into Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders
• Trauma and Stressor-Related Disorders: A Deep Dive
• Unpacking the Intricacies of Psychotic Disorders

Mental Illness Essay Topics for Health Exams

• Perception of Mental Illness in Society: Stigma and Stereotypes
• Psychosis as a Feature in Various Mental Disorders
• Comorbidity in Mental Health: Why It Occurs
• Diagnostic Controversies in Mental Illness Classification
• Effects of Long-Term Medication on Mental Health Patients
• Interventions in Adolescent Mental Health: Current Practices
• Coping Mechanisms for Living With a Mental Illness
• The Interplay of Culture and Mental Health Disorders
• Psychotherapy Techniques for Depression: An Evaluation
• Attachment Disorders in Children: Causes and Implications
• Suicide Risk among Individuals With Bipolar Disorder
• Mindfulness-Based Therapies in Treating Anxiety Disorders
• Ethical Dilemmas in Psychiatric Care: A Discussion
• Integration of Physical and Mental Healthcare Services
• Telepsychiatry in the Digital Age: Benefits and Drawbacks
• Personality Disorders: The Challenge of Diagnosis
• Exploring the Psychodynamics of Eating Disorders
• Treatment Resistant Depression: Innovative Approaches
• Neurobiology of Schizophrenia: Latest Research Insights

The Impact of Mental Illness on Families and Relationships Topics

• Family Dynamics Altered by Parental Depression
• The Strain on Marital Bonds: Spouse’s Schizophrenia Experience
• Adolescent Anxiety Disorders: Family System Changes
• Sibling Relationships in the Context of Mental Illness
• Familial Coping Strategies for Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Challenges Faced by Caregivers of Patients With Bipolar Disorder
• Navigating Childhood when a Parent Has a Mental Disorder
• Socioeconomic Consequences for Families With Mentally Ill Members
• Marital Satisfaction in the Face of Spousal Mental Illness
• Children’s Adjustment to Parental Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Mental Illness Stigma: An Intrusion on Family Relationships
• Divorce Rates and Mental Health Disorders: An Examination
• Parenting Styles Altered by a Parent’s Mental Illness
• Effects of a Family Member’s Eating Disorder on Household Dynamics
• Impact of Mental Illness on Intergenerational Family Relationships
• Resilience in Families Dealing With Schizophrenia: A Study
• The Function of Support Groups for Families With Mental Illness
• Addressing Mental Illness in Family Therapy Sessions
• Impact on Sibling Dynamics When a Child Has ADHD
• Maintaining Healthy Relationships Amidst Chronic Depression

The Role of Genetics and Environment in Mental Illness Topics

• Gene-Environment Interactions in Depression: A Detailed Review
• Epigenetics and Mental Health: Exploring the Connection
• Environmental Stressors and the Onset of Anxiety Disorders
• Influence of Childhood Trauma on Genetic Expression in Mental Health
• Nature Versus Nurture: Twin Studies in Psychiatry
• Prenatal Exposure to Stress and the Risk of Developing Schizophrenia
• Genomic Imprinting and Its Implications for Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Adverse Childhood Experiences: Their Effects on Mental Health Genetics
• Differential Susceptibility Hypothesis in the Context of Mental Health
• Bipolar Disorder: Genetic Predisposition and Environmental Triggers
• Genetic Mutations and Environmental Factors in the Onset of ADHD
• Epigenetic Mechanisms in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Decoding the Genetic Basis of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Early Life Stress and Vulnerability to Mental Illness: A Genetic Perspective
• Nature and Nurture: The Interplay in Eating Disorders
• Understanding the Genetic and Environmental Contributors to Autism
• Genomic Medicine and Its Potential in Treating Mental Illnesses
• Environmental Influences on Genes Linked to Major Depressive Disorder
• Exploring Genetic Variants and Their Environmental Modifiers in Schizophrenia
• Neurodevelopmental Perspective on Genetic and Environmental Factors in Mental Health

Emerging Trends in Mental Health Research and Treatment Topics for Essays

• Digital Mental Health Interventions: A New Frontier
• Precision Psychiatry: Personalizing Mental Health Treatment
• Advances in Telepsychiatry: Overcoming Distance and Stigma
• Artificial Intelligence Applications in Mental Health
• Virtual Reality Therapy for Phobia Treatment
• Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy: Implications and Ethical Considerations
• Microbiome Research and Its Implications for Mental Health
• Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Depression Treatment
• Novel Pharmacological Approaches for Treating Anxiety Disorders
• Social Media and Mental Health: Opportunities for Intervention
• Deep Brain Stimulation for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Mobile Health (mHealth) Applications for Mental Health Care
• Adopting a Lifespan Approach to Mental Health Care
• Cognitive Remediation Therapy in Schizophrenia Treatment
• Psychotherapy in the Era of Neuroimaging
• Use of Biomarkers in Psychiatry: Possibilities and Challenges
• Nutraceuticals and Mental Health: A Review of the Evidence
• Cannabis and Mental Health: New Perspectives
• Psychoeducational Interventions in Bipolar Disorder Management

Co-Occurring Health Disorders: Mental Illness and Substance Abuse Topics

• Treatment Models for Dual Diagnosis: An Interdisciplinary Approach
• Polypharmacy in Psychiatry: Managing Co-Occurring Disorders
• Comorbidity of Anxiety Disorders and Substance Use: A Complex Challenge
• Trauma-Informed Care in Dual Diagnosis: Ensuring Safety and Trust
• Self-Medication Hypothesis: Substance Abuse and Mental Illness Interplay
• Integrating Harm Reduction in Dual Diagnosis Treatment
• Methamphetamine Use and Psychotic Disorders: Unraveling the Connection
• Efficacy of Contingency Management in Co-Occurring Disorders
• Impact of Alcohol Use Disorder on Major Depressive Disorder
• Complexities in Treating Bipolar Disorder and Substance Abuse Concurrently
• Innovations in Group Therapy for Co-Occurring Disorders
• Cannabis Use and Its Effect on Schizophrenia Treatment
• Mindfulness-Based Interventions for Dual Diagnosis Patients
• Link Between Opioid Use Disorder and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Adolescent Substance Use and Concurrent Mental Health Issues
• Co-Occurring Eating Disorders and Substance Abuse: A Dangerous Synergy
• Pharmacological Approaches to Treating Co-Occurring ADHD and Substance Use Disorders
• Understanding the Intersection of Personality Disorders and Substance Abuse
• Addressing Co-Occurring Disorders in a Correctional Setting
• Dual Diagnosis: The Overlap of Dissociative Disorders and Substance Use

To Learn More, Read Relevant Articles

196 Animal Essay Topics & Animals Abuse Ideas

• Icon Calendar 21 July 2023
• Icon Page 1555 words

509 Capstone Project Topics & Good Ideas

• Icon Calendar 19 July 2023
• Icon Page 3754 words

88 Mental Illness Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best mental illness topic ideas & essay examples, 💡 most interesting mental illness topics to write about, 📌 simple & easy mental illness essay titles, 👍 good essay topics on mental illness.

• “Miracle in Cell No. 7”: The Representation of Mental Illness In the end, nothing proves to be of any help: Yong-gu is blackmailed by the system into confessing and executed on his daughter’s birthday.
• Mental Illness and Effective Treatments Causes of Mental Illness Generally, the causes of several mental illnesses have not been established and remain unknown.”However, research into the issue has established that in many cases, the condition develops as a result of […]
• Children Mental Illness and Its Effects on Parents There is a dearth of research on the effects of childhood mental illnesses on the parents. In this view, the impact of childhood mental illnesses on the lives of the parents appears to be underestimated.
• Mental Illness as a Theme of The Yellow Wallpaper As it appears from the novel, the reason why the narrator and her husband John decided to spend their summer vacation in a secluded mansion is that this proved beneficial to the narrator’s mental condition.
• Mental Illness Emergencies and Police Response According to Dempsey et al, the roles of law enforcement agencies and the police when dealing with individuals with mental illness are to assess the situation, intervene, provide support, and connect individuals with mental illness […]
• Diagnosing Mental Illness: Recovery in Mental Illness The definition of mental illness can vary depending on the source, but it generally refers to conditions that affect a person’s ability to function in daily life.
• The Case of Mental Illness as Depicted by Poe According to Poe’s story, treatment seeks to maintain the client in insanity in order to dispel their delusions.”The remedy was to stress the reality and accuse the client of idiocy for not understanding it as […]
• The Significance of Christianity in Treating Mental Illness From this reading, I have learned a valuable lesson about the importance of community and the effectiveness of the combination of faith and reason for better interpretation of psychological disorders’ causes, treatment, and prevention.
• Self-Management of Epilepsy and Mental Illness The group used the analysis of variance to investigate changes in depressive symptoms and anxiety symptoms, as well as the quality of life over time.
• National Alliance for Mental Illness Group’s Analysis Leaders in this support group need to therefore ensure that the sizes of groups are small for effectiveness to be achieved.
• How Heavy Use of Social Media Is Linked to Mental Illness The purpose of the study is to find out how social media overuse is linked to mental illness and the most appropriate ways of managing the exposure.
• Is Mental Illness Really an Illness? Midwives provide care and moral support to the expectant mother before childbirth, assist in the process of childbirth, and provide assistance in the postpartum period.
• Mental Illness Diagnosis Research The study can contribute to the analysis of the connection between the physical and mental conditions of children. This work contains a comprehensive summary of the quality of life and social skills of children and […]
• Relation Between Guns and Mental Illness The author also raises the question of gun ownership and its procedures now that a significant section of the population suffers from one form of mental illness.
• The Stigma of Mental Illness in Primary Health Care Physicians On the other hand, perceived stigma denotes how patients view the stigma that impacts the ability to cope with the emotional and physical effects of the disorder.
• Over-The-Counter Drugs vs. Prescription Drugs in the Treatment of Mental Illness It is challenging to determine which class of drugs supersede the other as there is minimal clinical evidence of the safety of OTC drugs.
• Collecting Quantitative Data for the Treatment of Mental Illness In conclusion, this essay has examined sampling as a quantitative research method rationally and its influence on generating conclusive data for the treatment of mental illness.
• Mental Illness Relationship to Crime In spite of this background research on ADHD, it is vital to carry out a more thorough character evaluation of a child diagnosed with the mental condition.
• Does Husband Abuse Cause Mental Illness in Women? And again out of this number 165 of them were abused by their husbands 38 of who had a common disorder. Of the 128 who had a common disorder, 38 of them were abused by […]
• Causation and Causal and Etiologic Factors of Mental Illness Differences Mental illness is considered to be a genuine medical phenomenon and its causes are explained from the medical point of view.
• Mental Illness: Behavioral Health and Community The article ‘Community health mental principles: A 40 year case study’ deals with the principles of CMHC and its goals, the article ‘All roads lead to community based care highlights the importance of community based […]
• Teen, Mental Illness and Guns Of late, the concern has heightened because of the incidences where the teens are getting access to guns stored in their homes in places that are unlocked.
• Mental Illness Around the World: Socio-Cultural and Genetic Aspects Discussing the relationship between socio-political concept of people’s cultural identity and the degree of their susceptibility to mental illnesses represents a certain challenge, especially given the fact that the etiology of such illnesses has not […]
• Psychology: ”Recovery From Mental Illness” by Anthony The community-based mental treatment system, as the article proves is based on the new comprehensive approach to the issues of psychological health, which puts forth not only the consequences of the illness but its deeper […]
• The Anorexia Nervosa as a Mental Illness While tracing the history of the disease, many authors have come to the conclusion that the disease is to some extent due to the living styles that people have adopted over the years and also […]
• “Mental Illness” and “Mental Imagery”: Guided Research The two terms chosen for this guided research are “mental illness” and “mental imagery”. Questions like the following are often asked: Are people with mental illness responsible for their behavior?
• Comorbidity of Substance Abuse and Mental Illness, Associated Complications, and Approaches to Care The authors have found that the highest comorbidity is between S.A.and schizophrenia, and the lowest was in S.A.and depressive illness. Thus, it is viable to conclude that the incidence of mortality is alarmingly higher in […]
• Humor Therapy for Patients With Mental Illness Thus, the researchers concentrated on humor as one of the most valuable components of therapy, having the potential to lead to positive patient outcomes.
• Mental Illness With Mass Shootings During their response, the crime scene was full of people, which made it difficult for police officers to do their work and exposed the staff to the terrifying picture.
• Mental Illness Within the Ranks Continuing on the symptoms manifested in the behavior of the new commander, it is necessary to highlight that he fails to control his emotions according to the information reported by his subordinates, he is unable […]
• Mental Illness in Children and Its Effects on Parents The highest percentage of the participant will be students and parents who are victims of this situation. Most of the participants involved in this study are students from the university and their parents.
• “Darkness Visible” and “An Unquiet Mind”: Mental Illness The beast of manic depression living within the professor is a duplicitous creature whose cravings result in the bifurcation of the woman’s moods and actions, thereby pushing her to either the farthest extremes of sexual […]
• Incidence of Mental Illness in Australian Workplaces The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare is endowed with the responsibility of collecting data relating to mental illnesses in various companies across the country in order to determine the influence that the illnesses have […]
• Imprisoned Customers With Mental Illness As a conclusion to the case study, one may suggest that interrelation of social stigma and psychological behavior is closely tracked through the example of the inmate, imprisoned for murdering his own daughter.
• The Mental Illness and Gun Violence Analysis The analysis of criminality and people’s mental health contains not only the effect of inflicted harm on one’s mental stability but also the potential predisposition of people with mental illnesses towards violent behaviour.
• Mental Illness and Homelessness in the United States Hence, there is a need to establish elaborate policies for addressing the problem of mental illness among homeless people in all regions in the US.
• The Cultural Construction of Mental Illness The review of the given sources contributes to the acquisition of knowledge needed to trace the evolution of the cultural construction of mental illnesses and determine the most significant changes.
• Mental Illness Through the Policy Glass According to Hartley and Lambert, one of the arguments for the CMHC Act relates to the introduction of community-based care viewed as the most appropriate psychotherapy for persons with mental illnesses.
• Mental Illness in the Creative Mind Ironically, the content of his character that acted as a source of his depression provided him with the tools he needed to save the nation.
• Does Economic Insecurity Cause Mental Illness? To address the issue, the researchers develop eight alternative measures of economic insecurity and investigate the relationships with two measures of mental health, uses Australian panel data that is rich in items on financial expectations […]
• Medical Issues: Mental Illness The second effect of mental illness diagnosis is psychosis; this refers to the experience of a patient to lose contact with the aspects of reality.
• Moral Treatment of the Mental Illness Before the 19th Century confinement and use of mechanical restraints was prevalent mode of treatment for the patients who were mentally ill in many parts of the world.
• How the Media Influence Society’s View on Mental Illness According to Francis et al, the observed developments in media framing of mental illness in Australia reflects deep-seated concerns with the nature of perceptions generated from reporting cases of mental illnesses in both broadcast and […]
• How Do People Labelled With a Mental Illness Deal With Their Stigmatization? There are five presumptions of the important to understand basically a biological issue, the problems of the disabled are because of the disability, the disabled individual is victimized, the disability is a core concept in […]
• Social Network and Personal Loss Among Young Adults With Mental Illness and Their Parents: A Family Perspective This leaves the parents of young adults with mental illness depressed and hopeless. In fact, young adults with mental illness and their parents need support from all members of the society.
• The Role of Mental Illness Play on Psychopathic Behavior
• The Relationship Between Mental Illness and Addiction
• The Variations of the Theories and Beliefs on the Subject of Mental Illness
• The Stigma of Mental Illness in the African American Community in America
• Van Gogh Connections Between Creativity and Mental Illness
• Using a Short Screening Scale for Small-Area Estimation of Mental Illness Prevalence for Schools
• The Role And Benefits of Dance as a Therapy For The Treatment of Mental Illness
• The Use of Music Therapy to Heal Mental Illness
• The Relationship Between Mental Illness and Child Abuse
• Women’s Struggle With Mental Illness and in Society in The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman
• The Moral Dilemma Surrounding the Mental Illness Medication
• The Serious Problem of Mental Illness Discrimination in America
• The Mental Illness of the United States
• The Relationship Between Mental Illness and Violence
• The Theme of Mental Illness in Lisa Bright and Dark by John Neufeld
• The National Alliance on Mental Illness
• The Problems of Homelessness and Mental Illness
• Women Living With Mental Illness and Homelessness Stigma
• Vincent Van Gogh’s Mental Illness Reflected in His Self Portraits
• United Kingdom’s Criminal Justice System, Crime, and Mental Illness
• The Use of Lobotomy as a Therapeutic Solution for Mental Illness
• United Kingdom’s System of Criminal Justice and Mental Illness
• Why Mental Illness Has Changed American Views
• Working With Young People Who Struggle With Mental Illness
• The Protection and Advocacy for Individuals With Mental Illness
• Veteran Mental Illness and System Justification Theory
• Understanding the Relationship Between Mental Illness and Ethnicity
• Theories and Conspiracies Relating to Vicent Van Gogh Mental Illness
• Using Arts and Dance to Treat Mental Illness
• Understanding Mental Illness Health People 2000
• The Negative Stigmas Attached to Mental Illness by Elyn Saks
• Theme of Mental Illness in The Yellow Wallpaper
• The Prevalence of Mental Illness in the United States
• The Stigma and Stereotypes of Mental Illness
• The Public Perception of Children With Mental Illness
• Understanding the Impact of Stigma on People With Mental Illness
• Treatment and Commitment Therapy on Mental Illness
• The Struggle of Lia With Mental Illness in Wintergirls, a Novel by Laurie Halse Anderson
• Types of Mental Illness: Psychoses, Neuroses, Defence Mechanisms
• The Myth of Mental Illness by Thomas Szasz Summary
• What Causes the Epidemic of Mental Illness in US?
• Violence and Mental Illness in Mass Shootings and Its Solution
• Eating Disorders Questions
• Schizophrenia Essay Topics
• Insanity Defense Questions
• Suicide Prevention Paper Topics
• Psychology Questions
• Abnormal Psychology Paper Topics
• Psychoanalysis Essay Topics
• Memory Research Ideas
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2024, March 2). 88 Mental Illness Essay Topic Ideas & Examples. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/mental-illness-essay-topics/

"88 Mental Illness Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." IvyPanda , 2 Mar. 2024, ivypanda.com/essays/topic/mental-illness-essay-topics/.

IvyPanda . (2024) '88 Mental Illness Essay Topic Ideas & Examples'. 2 March.

IvyPanda . 2024. "88 Mental Illness Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." March 2, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/mental-illness-essay-topics/.

1. IvyPanda . "88 Mental Illness Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." March 2, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/mental-illness-essay-topics/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "88 Mental Illness Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." March 2, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/mental-illness-essay-topics/.

100 Mental Health Essay Topics

Essay topics on the subject of mental health are many and varied. If you are charged with writing an essay on mental health, you could choose to focus on any number of subtopics related to the field.

But to craft a well-written essay on mental health, there are a few basics you should keep in mind to ensure your writing is informative, authoritative, and most importantly, accurate.

To help you create a mental health essay that hits all the right marks, we’ve put together this guide covering everything from outlining to research to writing your conclusion. We’ve also created a list of 100 mental health essay topics to help get you started.

Getting Started: How to Write a Mental Health Essay

Before you start writing your mental health essay, it’s essential to understand the assignment’s requirements. Pay close attention to the prompt or question you’ve been given, as this will help you determine the focus and direction of your essay.

Once you understand what’s required, you can start brainstorming ideas and developing a thesis statement. This will be the foundation of your mental health essay, so it’s important to take the time to get it right.

Your thesis statement should be clear and concise, and it should state the main argument or point you will be making in your essay. For example, if you are writing an essay on the importance of early intervention programs for mental health, your thesis statement might look something like this:

“Early intervention programs are essential for improving mental health outcomes and preventing serious mental illness.”

Once you have your thesis statement, you can develop an outline for your essay. This will help you organize your thoughts and ensure that your argument flows smoothly.

Your outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. In your introduction, you will want to grab the reader’s attention and give them an overview of what you will be discussing in your essay.

Your body paragraphs will be where you make your argument and support it with evidence. And in your conclusion, you will want to sum up your main points and leave the reader with a strong impression.

If you’re struggling to get started, try looking at some mental health essay examples. This can give you a better understanding of how to structure your own essay and the different elements you should include.

Doing the Research

Once you have a thesis statement and outline, it’s time to start doing research for your mental health essay. This is an important step, as it will help to ensure that your essay is accurate and well-informed.

When researching your mental health essay, you will want to look for reputable sources that are relevant to your topic. For example, try to find scholarly journal articles, government reports, or other reliable sources of information.

If you’re not sure where to start, try looking in the mental health section of your local library or searching for mental health essay examples online.

When taking notes from your research, be sure to record the author’s name, the title of the article, and the publication date. This will make it easier to create citations for your essay later on.

Writing the Essay

Now that you’ve done your research, it’s time to start writing your mental health essay. Begin with an introduction that grabs the reader’s attention and gives them an overview of your argument.

Your body paragraphs should each focus on one central point, and they should be supported with evidence from your research. Be sure to include in-text citations whenever you use information from a source.

And finally, conclude your mental health essay with a strong conclusion that sums up your main points and leaves the reader with a positive impression.

If you’re struggling to write your essay, try looking at some mental health essay examples for inspiration. Just be sure to use your own words and ideas, and don’t plagiarize.

Editing and Proofreading

Once you’ve finished writing your mental health essay, it’s important to edit and proofread it before you submit it. This will help to ensure that your essay is well-written and free of any errors.

Start by reading your essay aloud, as this can help you spot any errors or awkward phrases. Then, revise your essay for clarity and conciseness. And finally, proofread your essay carefully to catch any typos or grammatical errors.

If you’re struggling to edit and proofread your work, try reading your essay backwards. This will help you focus on each word and catch any errors you might otherwise miss.

You can also try using a grammar checker or having someone else read your essay. Just be sure to give yourself enough time to make revisions, as rushing this process can result in mistakes being missed.

With the detailed guide above, you should have no trouble writing a mental health essay on your own. But if you’re struggling to choose a topic, here are 100 mental health essay topics to consider:

Mental Health Essay Topics About Mental Illness

• What are the most common mental illnesses?
• How can mental illness be diagnosed?
• What are the causes of mental illness?
• How does mental illness impact a person’s life?
• What are the treatments for mental illness?
• Are there any effective preventative measures for mental illness?
• How does society view mental illness?
• Are there any stigma surrounding mental illness?
• What are the challenges of living with mental illness?
• How does mental illness affect relationships?

Mental Health Essay Topics About Mental Health Treatment

• What are the different types of mental health treatment?
• How effective is mental health treatment?
• What are the side effects of mental health treatment?
• How can mental health treatment be accessed?
• Who provides mental health treatment?
• What are the challenges of mental health treatment?
• Can mental health treatment be forced?
• What are the rights of mental health patients?
• How does mental health treatment impact a person’s life?
• Are there any alternatives to mental health treatment?

Mental Health Essay Topics About Mental Health in the Workplace

• What are the impacts of poor mental health in the workplace?
• How can poor mental health in the workplace be prevented?
• What are the challenges of addressing mental health in the workplace?
• How can employers support employees with mental health issues?
• How does mental health affect productivity in the workplace?
• What are the legal implications of poor mental health in the workplace?
• How does mental health discrimination impact the workplace?
• What are some successful workplace mental health initiatives?
• How can employers create a mentally healthy workplace?
• What role does management play in supporting employees with mental health issues?

Mental Health Essay Topics About Mental Health in Schools

• How does poor mental health affect academic performance?
• What are the impacts of bullying on mental health?
• How can schools create a positive and supportive environment for students with mental health issues?
• What is the role of teachers in supporting students with mental health issues?
• What are some effective intervention strategies for mental health issues in schools?
• How can school counselors support students with mental health issues?
• Are there any legal implications for schools regarding mental health?
• What are the challenges of implementing mental health programs in schools?
• What are some successful examples of mental health initiatives in schools?
• How can the stigmatization of mental health be addressed in schools?

Mental Health Essay Topics About the Mental Health of Children

• What are the most common mental health disorders in children?
• How can mental health disorders in children be diagnosed?
• What are the causes of mental health disorders in children?
• How do mental health disorders impact a child’s life?
• What are the treatments for mental health disorders in children?
• Are there any effective preventative measures for mental health disorders in children?
• How does society view mental health disorders in children?
• Are there any stigma surrounding mental health disorders in children?
• What are the challenges of living with a mental health disorder as a child?
• How do mental health disorders affect relationships?

Mental Health Essay Topics About Mental Health Disorders

• What’s the difference between paranoia and anxiety disorders?
• How do depression and eating disorders differ?
• What is PTSD, and how does it differ from other anxiety disorders?
• What are the causes of schizophrenia?
• Is there a difference between mental illness and insanity?
• How do experts diagnose clinical vs. environmental mental illnesses?
• Is there a genetic component to mental illness?
• How do different cultures deal with mental illness?
• What is the difference between a nervous breakdown and a mental breakdown?
• What are some of the most common alternative therapies for mental illness?

Mental Health Essay Topics About The Mental Health Of Veterans

• What are the most common mental health disorders among veterans?
• How does military service impact mental health?
• What are the risk factors for mental health disorders among veterans?
• What are the treatments for mental health disorders among veterans?
• Are there any effective preventative measures for mental health disorders among veterans?
• What mental health issues are specific to veterans and not the civilian population?
• How does the Veterans Affairs system deal with mental health disorders?
• What are the challenges of diagnosing and treating mental health disorders among veterans?
• What are some successful examples of mental health initiatives for veterans?
• How can the stigma surrounding mental health be addressed among veterans?

Mental Health Essay Topics About Alternative Mental Health Therapies

• What is art therapy, and how does it work?
• What is music therapy, and how does it work?
• What is drama therapy, and how does it work?
• What are the benefits of using alternative mental health therapies?
• Are there any risks associated with using alternative mental health therapies?
• How do alternative mental health therapies compare to traditional therapies?
• What are the challenges of using alternative mental health therapies?
• Are there any successful examples of using alternative mental health therapies?
• How can the stigma surrounding mental health be addressed through alternative therapies?
• What role do alternative mental health therapies play in treating mental health disorders?

Mental Health Essay Topics About Outdated Mental Health Therapies

• What are the differences in how mental health was treated 100 years ago and how it is treated today?
• What are some outdated mental health therapies that are no longer used?
• Why were mental health therapies from the ’50s considered effective at the time?
• How have mental health therapies evolved over the past decade?
• Are there any risks associated with using these outdated therapies?
• What can we learn from these outdated therapies?

Mental Health Essay Topics About the Impact of Technology on Mental Health

• How has social media impacted mental health?
• Are there any benefits to using technology in treating mental health disorders?
• Are there any risks associated with using technology to treat mental health disorders?
• How does cyberbullying impact mental health?
• What is the impact of social media on body image and eating disorders?
• How does technology addiction impact mental health?
• What are the challenges of treating mental health disorders exacerbated by technology?
• What are some successful examples of using technology to treat mental health disorders?
• How can the stigma surrounding mental health be addressed through technology?
• What role does technology play in treating mental health disorders?

Mental Health Essay Topics About Trauma and Mental Health

• What is trauma?
• How does trauma impact mental health?
• What are the risk factors for developing mental health disorders after trauma?
• What are the treatments for mental health disorders caused by trauma?

With these 100 mental health essay topics combined with a list of helpful writing tips, you should be well on your way to writing a great mental health essay. Just remember to choose a topic you are passionate about and do some research to find reliable sources.

Related Posts

• 80 Holocaust Essay Topics
• 120 Exemplification Essay Topics
• 70 “How To” Essay Topics
• 110 Music Essay Topics
• 170 Comparative Essay Topics

Categories:

• Essay Samples
• Essay Topics
• Essay Writing Guides

Recent posts:

• 170 Ethics Essay Topics
• 160 Satire Essay Topics
• 160 Rhetorical Essay Topics
• 155 Criminal Justice Essay Topics
• 150 Political Essay Topics
• 145 Classification Essay Topics
• 140 Sociology Essay Topics
• 140 Opinion Essay Topics
• 140 Environmental Essay Topics
• 135 Controversial Essay Topics
• 125 Classification and Division Essay Topics
• 120 Literary Essay Topics
• 100 Profile Essay Topics
• 90 Heart of Darkness Essay Topics

Testimonials

Home — Essay Samples — Nursing & Health — Psychiatry & Mental Health — Mental Health

Argumentative Essays About Mental Health

Hook examples for mental health essays, the personal experience hook.

Share a personal anecdote or experience related to mental health. Describe your journey or the experiences of someone close to you, highlighting the challenges and the importance of mental well-being.

The Stigma-Breaking Hook

Begin by discussing the stigma surrounding mental health. Explain how society's perceptions can hinder individuals from seeking help and why it's crucial to challenge these stereotypes.

The Statistics and Prevalence Hook

Start with shocking statistics or data on the prevalence of mental health issues. Highlight the scale of the problem and its impact on individuals and communities.

The Historical Perspective Hook

Explore the historical treatment of mental health. Discuss how society's understanding of mental illnesses has evolved over time and the significance of these changes.

The Celebrities and Advocacy Hook

Highlight the advocacy efforts of well-known figures who have openly discussed their mental health struggles. Explain how their stories have helped reduce stigma and raise awareness.

The Impact on Daily Life Hook

Discuss how mental health issues affect everyday life, including relationships, work, and overall well-being. Share relatable scenarios to engage readers emotionally.

The Psychological Insights Hook

Introduce a psychological concept or theory related to mental health. Explain its relevance and how it can provide valuable insights into human behavior and emotions.

The Global Mental Health Hook

Examine mental health on a global scale. Discuss disparities in access to mental health care and the impact of cultural factors on mental well-being.

The Resilience and Recovery Hook

Share stories of individuals who have overcome mental health challenges and emphasize the themes of resilience, recovery, and hope. Showcase the importance of seeking help and support.

The Call to Action Hook

Conclude your essay with a compelling call to action. Encourage readers to prioritize their mental health, seek help when needed, and advocate for better mental health care and awareness.

Proposal Essay Examples on Mental Health

When delving into the realm of proposal essays , it's crucial to explore a diverse array of topics that capture the complexities of societal issues. In this context, mental health emerges as a critical area deserving attention and analysis. Below, you'll find a curated list of proposal essay topics centered around mental health, aiming to spark insightful discussions and potential solutions.

• The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health Awareness
• Improving Access to Mental Health Services in Rural Communities
• Addressing Stigma Surrounding Mental Illness in Schools
• Implementing Mental Health Education Programs in the Workplace
• Enhancing Support Systems for Veterans' Mental Health
• Exploring Alternative Therapies for Managing Anxiety and Depression
• Promoting Mental Wellness Among College Students
• Integrating Mental Health Screening into Primary Care Settings
• Combatting Loneliness and Isolation Among the Elderly
• Creating Support Networks for Families of Individuals with Mental Illness

Hilary Stouts "Antisocial Networking": The Dark Side of Social Media

Reflection about emotions, made-to-order essay as fast as you need it.

Each essay is customized to cater to your unique preferences

+ experts online

Missing Women by June Spence Summary

Mental illness as a social problem: essay, the stigma of mental illness and forms of treatment, overview of biological predispositions and risk factors associated with depression, let us write you an essay from scratch.

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

The Effects of Mental Health on Our Life

Teenage mental health: the increase in mental illnesses, how to overcome teenage depression, mental health awareness: importance and impact, get a personalized essay in under 3 hours.

Expert-written essays crafted with your exact needs in mind

The Importance of Understanding of Self-knowledge and The Subconscious Mind

Mental illness that affect millions of people, the topic of mental disorders in winnie the pooh, the importance of mental health awareness, mental illnesses: definition, kinds and its effects on society, the effects of the stigmatization of mental illness on the society, the theme of mental illness in "the woman in the window" written by a.j. finn, research of stigmatization of mental illness, the history of the treatment of mental illness in the middle ages, the cultural beliefs concerning mental illnesses in the south asian community, the effect of mental illnesses on art throughout different time periods, the perception of mental illnesses by senegalese people, supportive homes for people with serious mental illness, the problem of ignorance about mental illness, an examination of the six mental illnesses and its impact on human life, the special needs of the criminal justice on mental illness cases, serial killers with mental illnesses, the interrelation between mental illness and drug addiction, child abuse as a reason for childhood mental illness, bridging the gap between police officers and citizens with mental illnesses in canada.

A mental illness, referred to as a mental disorder or psychiatric disorder, is a condition characterized by disrupted behavioral or mental patterns that result in considerable distress or impairment to an individual's personal functioning.

Anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, sleep disorders, sexuality related disorders, other disorders.

Genetic and biological factors: Having a family history of mental illness can elevate the likelihood of experiencing such conditions. Additionally, specific genetic variations and imbalances in brain chemistry can contribute to an individual's susceptibility to mental health disorders. Environmental factors: Adverse childhood experiences, including trauma, abuse, neglect, or growing up in a stressful and unstable environment, increase the vulnerability to developing mental health issues. Psychological factors: Certain traits like high levels of neuroticism or low self-esteem can also contribute to an individual's susceptibility to mental health problems. Substance abuse: Alcohol and drug abuse is strongly associated with an increased risk of mental health disorders. Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions and chronic illnesses, such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, or neurological disorders, can be linked to a heightened risk of mental illness.

Emotional disturbances: persistent sadness, anxiety, irritability, mood swings, or a general sense of emptiness. Cognitive impairments: mental health disorders can affect cognitive processes such as thinking, concentration, memory, and decision-making. Individuals may experience difficulties in focusing, problem-solving, or retaining information. Behavioral changes: withdrawal from social activities, changes in sleep patterns, appetite fluctuations, increased substance use, self-harm, or engaging in risky behaviors. Distorted perceptions: hallucinations (perceiving things that are not there) or delusions (strongly held beliefs that are not based on reality). Impairment in functioning: mental illness often interferes with an individual's ability to function effectively in their daily life. This can include challenges in personal relationships, occupational difficulties, impaired academic performance, or a decline in overall quality of life. Physical symptoms: headaches, digestive problems, fatigue, or unexplained aches and pains.

Psychotherapy: also referred to as talk therapy, involves collaborating with a trained therapist to explore thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Its purpose is to gain insights, develop coping skills, and foster positive transformations. Medication: certain mental disorders can be aided by medication, such as antidepressants, antianxiety drugs, or mood stabilizers. These medications assist in regulating brain chemistry and alleviating symptoms. Lifestyle changes: adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, balanced nutrition, sufficient sleep, and effective stress management, can contribute to enhancing mental well-being. Support groups: becoming part of support groups or engaging in group therapy can provide a sense of community and empathy, allowing for the exchange of experiences and receiving support from peers. Alternative therapies: some individuals find alternative treatments like yoga, meditation, art therapy, or acupuncture beneficial. These practices can reduce stress, promote relaxation, and enhance emotional well-being. Hospitalization or intensive treatment programs: in severe cases or during mental health emergencies, hospitalization or intensive treatment programs may be required to ensure safety, stabilization, and access to specialized care.

The significance of the subject of mental illness cannot be overstated, as it holds profound relevance for individuals, families, and society at large. The far-reaching impact of mental health conditions on countless people globally necessitates attention and understanding. These conditions impose substantial suffering, impair daily functioning, and tragically, may even lead to loss of life. Recognizing and comprehending mental illness is imperative to foster awareness, combat societal stigma, and enable timely intervention. Prioritizing mental health enables the enhancement of overall well-being and life quality for those affected, while also driving the development of effective treatment methods, improved accessibility to resources, and the cultivation of supportive environments that nurture healing and resilience.

The topic of mental illness is immensely deserving of an essay due to its profound significance in today's society. Exploring mental illness provides an opportunity to raise awareness, challenge misconceptions, and promote understanding. By delving into this subject, one can shed light on the experiences of individuals facing mental health challenges, the impact on their lives, and the broader societal implications. It allows for an examination of the available resources, treatment approaches, and the need for improved mental healthcare systems. Addressing mental illness in an essay contributes to reducing stigma, fostering empathy, and inspiring action to create a more compassionate and supportive environment for those affected.

1. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing. 2. World Health Organization. (2019). Mental disorders. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-disorders 3. Kessler, R. C., Chiu, W. T., Demler, O., & Walters, E. E. (2005). Prevalence, severity, and comorbidity of twelve-month DSM-IV disorders in the National Comorbidity Survey Replication (NCS-R). Archives of General Psychiatry, 62(6), 617-627. 4. National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Mental health information. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/index.shtml 5. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2019). Key substance use and mental health indicators in the United States: Results from the 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Rockville, MD: Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. 6. Greenberg, G. (2013). The book of woe: The DSM and the unmaking of psychiatry. New York, NY: Penguin Books. 7. Corrigan, P. W., Druss, B. G., & Perlick, D. A. (2014). The impact of mental illness stigma on seeking and participating in mental health care. Psychological Science in the Public Interest, 15(2), 37-70. 8. Pincus, H. A., Davis, W. W., & McQueen, L. E. (2017). "Subthreshold" mental disorders: A review and synthesis of studies on minor depression and other "brand names." British Journal of Psychiatry, 190(4), 288-294. 9. Sartorius, N. (2017). Stigma and mental health. Lancet Psychiatry, 4(10), 777-778. 10. Patel, V., Saxena, S., Lund, C., Thornicroft, G., Baingana, F., Bolton, P., ... & Unützer, J. (2018). The Lancet Commission on global mental health and sustainable development. The Lancet, 392(10157), 1553-1598.

Relevant topics

• Eating Disorders
• Drug Addiction

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Bibliography

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

139 Mental Illness Essay Topics

🏆 best essay topics on mental illness, ✍️ mental illness essay topics for college, 👍 good mental illness research topics & essay examples, 🎓 most interesting mental illness research titles, 💡 simple mental illness essay ideas, ❓ mental illness research questions.

• Mental Illness in Steve Lopez’s “The Soloist”
• What Is Mental Illness?
• Biopsychosocial Approach in Mental Illness
• Van Gogh’s Art, Gogen’s Influence and Mental Illness
• Mental Illness: Nursing Care Plan
• Vincent Van Gogh: Art and the Mental Illness
• Improving Mental Health by Preventing Mental Illness
• Isolation, Patriarchy, Materialism, and Mental Illness in “The Yellow Wallpaper” “The Yellow Wallpaper” utilizes a broad range of literary devices to explore the subservient state of women and the neglect of their mental health in late 19th-century America.
• Interventions for Homeless With Mental Illness This paper is an annotated bibliography of the five articles devoted to the topic of interventions for homeless with mental illness.
• Mental Illness: The Case Study This document presents the results of John Doe’s mental illness assessment histories. The interview was conducted to collect information about the client’s mental health condition.
• Mental Illness and Work: Bipolar Disorder Bipolar disorder, previously termed manic depressive psychosis, is a serious mental illness characterized by mood swings with episodes of both elevated and depressed moods .
• Mental Illness Stigmatization in Media and Literature The problem of labeling persons with mental illnesses is actively discussed by psychologists, sociologists, and other researchers in the context of making stigmas.
• Vincent Van Gogh and His Mental Illness This paper analyzes Van Gogh’s state of mind by studying his paintings and the time sequence of when they were painted from both the personal and social perspectives.
• The Medical Model of Mental Illness A medical model is called a direction in psychology that explains mental illness through physical causes. The medical model connects problems with biological ones.
• Relationship Between Brilliance and Mental Illness There is a popular myth that no great genius can exist without a dash of lunacy. The history of genius is littered with the names of disturbed minds.
• Mental Illness and Madness and Approach to Mental Disorders The biological approach is currently more typical for psychiatry, which, having a close connection with clinical psychology, considers mental disorders mainly from such positions.
• Usher Syndrome and Mental Illness Usher syndrome’s negative impact on the human body cannot be overstated as there when this diagnosis is associated with various mental diseases such as schizophrenia.
• Nursing Care for Patients With Mental Illnesses Mental illness spans a great number of symptoms and indications. There are many types and degrees of mental illness. Anyone in any age, ethnic, or socioeconomic group can be impacted.
• Return to Work After Mental Illness: Intervention Strategies The paper identified different levels and types of intervention strategies available for the individuals who return to work after the recovery from mental illness.
• Mental Health, Mental Illness, Risk, & Resilience It needs to be said that the way mental health and mental illness are perceived has changed over the years, and a broad range of concepts has been developed.
• Health Care Policy for Veterans With Mental Illness The paper discusses The National Research Action Plan as the current policy designed in 2013 to improve the health services for veterans, service members, and their families.
• Mental Illness and Mental Health Mental health issues are often overlooked in general medicine. However, they can impact an individual’s life as severely as many physical illnesses.
• Mental Illness for Brilliant People Mental illness is defined as a health condition with changes in one’s emotions and behavioral changes which accrue from stress or challenges after engaging in activities.
• Treatment of People With Severe Mental Illness This paper will argue that despite advances in medical treatment, the social perception and treatment of people with such issues have changed little.
• Incarceration and Mental Illness Mental health problems and their relation to prisoners and incarceration slowly became more evident in the last two decades.
• Problem of Mental Illness for the Individual and Society The paper states that any mental illness is a serious problem for the individual as well as for society. Mentally ill people can be dangerous.
• Mental Illness Diversion Program This paper will present a diversion program for people with mental illness, highlighting its most important points.
• Available Resources to Uninsured People With Mental Illness Uninsured patients with bipolar disorder have limited access to healthcare services because diagnosis, treatment, and management of the disorder are very expensive.
• Mental Illness Impact on Family Members-Caregivers in a Home Setting Mental health problems can be characterised as an anxiety disorder that can occur after someone has been through a traumatic event.
• Mental Illness in the Context of Home Caregiving This study aims at discovering the experiences of the members of the family who live with mentally ill relatives. Descriptive phenomenology will be used as the study method.
• Teen Anorexia: Mental Illness and an Eating Disorder Adolescents have increasingly been diagnosed with anorexia. They often have a nervous type of pathology, which is a psychological illness and is accompanied by an eating disorder.
• Problems of Prisoners With Mental Illness The author argues that the criminal justice system in its current state provides for a much higher proportion of people with mental problems than the health care system itself.
• Mental Illness and People of Color This study’s focus is the specific misconceptions and stigmas of people of color that contribute to mistrust and underutilization of healthcare services for mental illness.
• Stigmas of Mental Illness and People of Color This study explores the factors that contribute to misconceptions and stigmas related to mental illnesses and their treatment that are common in communities of people of color.
• Marginalized Women with Mental Illness This paper aims at exploring the specific features concerning the challenges that marginalized women with mental health problems encountered.
• The Prevalence of Mental Illness in the United States The prevalence of mental illness in the United States is high, and the number of people experiencing mental health conditions affects how society continues to function.
• Mental Illness and People of Color: Misconceptions and Stigmas This research examined the personal attitudes, mistrust, and stigma of people of color regarding mental health services and their influence on the utilization of these services.
• Stigma About Mental Illness Among Communities of People of Color The paper includes the actual rates of mental illness among ethnic and racial minorities, health disparities and their specific types.
• The Teaching Plan for Mental Illness The current teaching plan targets adolescents and young adults who struggle with mental illness. The proposed seminar falls under the domain of educational policies.
• Mental Illness and People of Color Misconceptions It should be noted that the term “mental illness” is rather vague, and various healthcare professionals may interpret it differently.
• Understanding Psychiatric Disorders: Mental Illness Treatment Strategies The combination of pharmacology and behavioral therapy can reduce the need for medication and provide an identical health outcome.
• Defining and Labeling Mental Illness The existence of mental-disorders has necessitated extensive studies for quite some time now. This owes to its undesirable impacts to the patient and the community.
• Experience of People With Mental Illness The passage outlined below deals with the experience of people with mental illness. Four groups, by name ‘focus groups’ have come forward with research programmes.
• The Problem of Perception and Adaptation of Mental Illness With Families by Wilson The academic questions for this article are related to the methods used by Wilson in his work concerning the problem of perception and adaptation of mental illness with families.
• Understanding Mental Illness: Aspects of Schizophrenia There is a significant social stigma surrounding severe mental illness such as schizophrenia which leads to discrimination of not just the patient, but the whole family.
• Homeless People with Mental Illness and Healthcare This study answers the question of how should homeless people with mental illness be addressed, adopting a systematic literature review approach.
• Schizophrenia: Physiological Basis of a Mental Illness Schizophrenia is mental illness with a genetic basis and its complexity is presents in form of chronic psychosis and the cognitive ability of the individual becomes impaired.
• Abnormality and Mental Illness in Social Psychology The first explanation of abnormality is nonconformity to social standards. The main problem with this definition is that social norms change quickly.
• Mental Illness History: Early Beliefs and Theories of Mental Health The theories of mental health have undergone a series of evolution over the ages. Psychologists have studied various facets of man’s character to develop a probable theory.
• Healthcare Concerning Mental Illness
• Behavioral Mental Illness: ADHD
• Anorexia and the History of Mental Illness
• Attitudes Toward Mental Illness 18th and 19th Century England
• Social Anxiety Disorder and Mental Illness
• Mental Illness and Social Justice
• Living With the Stigma of Mental Illness
• Mental Illness, Abuse, and Its Effect on Relationships
• The Correlation Between Religion and Mental Illness
• Poverty and Its Ensuing Mental Illness
• The Criminal Justice System and Mental Illness
• Mental Illness: The Main Symptoms of Schizophrenia
• Gun Control and Mental Illness
• Mental Illness Among African-Americans
• Domestic Violence, Women and Its Effects on Mental Illness
• Healthcare Delivery for Persons With Mental Illness
• Homelessness, Mental Illness, and Social Intervention
• Combat Ptsd and Other Forms of Mental Illness
• Dominant Attitudes Towards Mental Illness in Society
• Conquering Mental Illness Depression
• Suicide Risk and Mental Illness
• Bipolar Disorder and Mental Illness
• The Connection Between Mental Illness and Creativity
• Mental Illness and Its Effects
• The Genius and Mental Illness
• Mental Illness and Health Care For the Mentally Ill
• Alcohol and Drug Use Related to Mental Illness
• Biological and Genetic Explanations for Mental Illness
• Mental Illness and Its Effects on Our World
• Examining Stigmas Towards Children With Mental Illness
• Art, Artists, and Mental Illness
• Differentiating Mental Illness From Mental Health
• Medications for Mental Illness
• Risk Factors for Mental Illness
• Mental Illness and Substance Abuse Problems
• The Moral Dilemma Surrounding the Mental Illness Medication
• Mental Illness Among Prisons and the United States
• Juvenile Offenders With Mental Illness
• Physical Mental Illness Adolescents
• Mental Illness Among the Elderly
• Correlation Between Mental Illness and Violence and Crime
• Mental Illness and Its Influence on His Writing Style
• Eighteenth and Nineteenth-Century Perspectives on Mental Illness
• Criminality and Mental Illness
• Some Economic and Demographic Consequences of Mental Illness
• Psychological and Legal Issues Associated With Mental Illness
• Mental Illness and Its Effects on the Brain
• Genomic Variation, Evolvability, and the Paradox of Mental Illness
• Combating Mental Illness Discrimination
• Mental Illness and Confidentiality Issues
• Contributing Factors for the Degradation in Mental Illness
• Discrimination Against People With Mental Illness in Wales
• Penal System and Mental Illness
• Mental Illness and Its Effect on Society
• Case Management for Homeless People With Mental Illness
• Factors Influencing Mental Illness Rates in Pakistan
• Mental Illness and Criminal Justice
• Mental Illness and Child Development
• Social Factors and Mental Illness
• Recovery From Mental Illness
• How Does Social Context Influence the Experience of Mental Illness?
• At What Age Do Mental Illnesses Usually Manifest?
• What Is the Sociological Model of Mental Illness?
• How Does Mental Illness Affect Nutrition?
• What Is the Main Difference Between Abnormal Psychology and Mental Illness?
• Are Mental Illnesses Social Constructs?
• How Does Mental Illness Affect Criminal Behavior?
• What Is the Medical Model of Mental Illness?
• How Is Mental Illness Defined?
• Is Depression a Mental Illness or Mental Disorder?
• How Do Mental Illnesses Run in Families?
• What Does the Behavioral Model Say About the Cause of Mental Illness?
• Are Phobias a Mental Illness?
• How Is Psychopharmacology Utilized in the Treatment of Mental Illness?
• What Are Some of the Protective Factors to Avoid Mental Illness?
• How Does Stigma Affect People With Mental Illness?
• Is Mental Illness a Predictor of Violence?
• How Can Mental Illness Be Explained Using the Biopsychosocial Model?
• What Is Mental Illness According to the American Psychiatric Association?
• Are Personality Disorders Mental Illnesses?
• What Are the Main Types of Mental Illness Related to Eating Disorders?
• From What Perspective Were Mental Illnesses Considered in the Middle Ages?
• Can Mental Illness Cause Physical Symptoms?
• Do Social Factors Have an Influence on Mental Illnesses?
• What Are the Current Trends in the Use of Drugs to Treat Mental Illness?
• Is Mental Illness Genetic?
• How Does the Media Affect the Perception of Mental Illness?
• What Is the View of Mental Illness in Today’s Western Culture?
• What Is the Difference Between Mental Illness and Neurological Disorders?
• What Causes Mental Illness According to Behaviorism?

Cite this post

• Chicago (N-B)
• Chicago (A-D)

StudyCorgi. (2022, March 1). 139 Mental Illness Essay Topics. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/mental-illness-essay-topics/

"139 Mental Illness Essay Topics." StudyCorgi , 1 Mar. 2022, studycorgi.com/ideas/mental-illness-essay-topics/.

StudyCorgi . (2022) '139 Mental Illness Essay Topics'. 1 March.

1. StudyCorgi . "139 Mental Illness Essay Topics." March 1, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/mental-illness-essay-topics/.

Bibliography

StudyCorgi . "139 Mental Illness Essay Topics." March 1, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/mental-illness-essay-topics/.

StudyCorgi . 2022. "139 Mental Illness Essay Topics." March 1, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/mental-illness-essay-topics/.

These essay examples and topics on Mental Illness were carefully selected by the StudyCorgi editorial team. They meet our highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, and fact accuracy. Please ensure you properly reference the materials if you’re using them to write your assignment.

This essay topic collection was updated on December 27, 2023 .

• Call to +1 844 889-9952

212 Mental Health Research Topics & Essay Examples

📝 mental health research papers examples, 🎓 simple research topics about mental health, 👍 good mental health essay topics to write about.

• ⭐ Simple & Easy Mental Health Essay Titles

🏆 Best Mental Health Essay Titles

✍️ mental health essay topics for college, 📣 mental health topics for discussion, ❓ mental health research questions.

• Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Psychology essay sample: The essay describes the nature of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and its usefulness for V-Axis evaluation.
• Mental Health Risks of Abortion Psychology essay sample: This paper reviews related literature on the potential association of mental health risks and abortion; enumerating perspectives for understanding health risks of abortion.
• Dynamics of Mental Pyramid Psychology essay sample: The human mental programming is an essential part of social interactions and it facilitates behavioural patterns.
• "Mental Health Status Between Players and Non-Players” by Tanuja Psychology essay sample: The present paper aims to critically evaluate the methods used in the article by Raut Tanuja and Ahmad (2015) to understand the reliability of findings.
• Mental Health & Rogers’ Person-Centered Psychotherapy Psychology essay sample: Healthy-functioning individuals have specific traits that help them to be cognizant of their emotions and accept their requirements for personal growth.
• Online Addiction for Mental and Physical Health Psychology essay sample: Internet addiction is an umbrella term that encompasses many different types of problematic online behaviors such as online gambling, social networking and online sex.
• Mental Illness: Treatment Approaches and Challenges Psychology essay sample: The treatment of forensic populations, as with any clinical population, must be tailored to the individuals as well as to their mental illness.
• Mental Health Stigmatizing in East Asia Psychology essay sample: This research aims at establishing why there is mental stigmatization in East Asia and how South Korea has addressed issues associated with mental illness compared to Japan.
• Psychology: Mental Health Issues Psychology essay sample: This paper contains a review of primary causes leading to mental illnesses along with available social and individual measures intended to cope with them.
• Day Care and Child Mental Health/Cognitive Functioning Psychology essay sample: The study partially supported the hypothesis that early parental employment has a positive effect on children's development by increasing family income.
• Divorce Effect on Children's Mental Health Psychology essay sample: The family dissolution process, a conflict between parents, custody issues, and negative post-divorce relationships adversely influence the mental health of children.
• Mental Health Problem in America Psychology essay sample: The purpose of this paper is to discuss available statistics and some facts about a mental health problem in the United States of America.
• Mental Health Disorder Stigma in the Military and Civilian Workforce Psychology essay sample: Mental health disorder stigma is a common problem, soldiers experience additional psychological predicaments due to the culture in their respective work environments.
• Mentally Ill Offenders With Suicide Tendency Psychology essay sample: This paper aims to discuss some of the special requirements of mentally ill offenders and analyze some potential solutions to improve their condition and situation in prisons.
• Causes and Effects of Mental Illness Psychology essay sample: In terms of its effects, mental ailment leads to difficulties in learning, among other social challenges. The condition affects the patients and the immediate environment.
• Social Problems Associated With Mental Illness and Health Promotion Psychology essay sample: Troubles with psychological health can create barriers to being employed, partially because mental illnesses are commonly stigmatized.
• Coronavirus Impact on Mental Health: Articles Psychology essay sample: This paper compares and contrasts articles by two authors Achenbach and Winch on the mental health impact of coronavirus.
• Culture and Mental Illness Psychology essay sample: Culture defines a person by using a set of values it is exacted to affirm all the time. Any slight but prolonged deviation can be considered a sign of insanity of a certain degree.
• Adolescent and Young Adult Health: The Problem of Mental Health Psychology essay sample: Due to a plethora of negative factors causing distress and emotional unease, adolescents and young adults are exposed to an increased threat of mental health breakdowns.
• Divorce Affecting Children's Mental Health Psychology essay sample: More and more parents are deciding to break up through divorce. The paper aims to discuss the psychological and mental effects divorce has on children.
• Mental Health Access Improvement Act Psychology essay sample: The Mental Health Access Improvement Act is aimed at regulating the work of marriage and family therapists, focusing on their activity under the Medicare program.
• Sun Exposure Benefits for Physical and Mental Health Psychology essay sample: This essay discusses the benefits of sun exposure, including increased concentrations of vitamin D in the body, as well as general effects on physical and mental health.
• Mental Health Impact of COVID-19 on Australian Adolescents Psychology essay sample: The information on adolescents' situation regarding their physical and mental health stemming from the pandemic is described by the popular article based on recent research.
• Stereotypes Concerning Mental Disorder Psychology essay sample: Stereotypes concerning mental disorder arise from the inability to believe that psychologically incapable individuals can work, study, and function regularly.
• The Myth of Mental Illness by Thomas S. Szasz Psychology essay sample: Mental health remains an issue of controversy in health and psychiatry. Many arguments for and against mental illness are dealt with have been disagreed upon.
• Extraversion, Mental Health and Self-Esteem Psychology essay sample: The study aims to investigate if a link between extraversion personality, mental health, and self-esteem exist.
• Mental Health: Case Study of S. Psychology essay sample: This paper is devoted to the case of a woman I know personally. S. is a 31-year-old single mother with a family history of anxiety disorders.
• Childhood Trauma Etiology Associated With Social and Mental Disorders Psychology essay sample: This paper will showcase the five themes that were revealed during the review process to better understand the associations between childhood trauma and various disorders.
• Internet and Mental Health Services Psychology essay sample: Mental health professionals and patients must remain informed on the latest developments by embracing online mental health services.
• American Mental Health Counselors Association Psychology essay sample: While theoretical elements are important to a counselor’s work, each professional must formulate a personal philosophy of counseling.
• Mental Health and Mental Illness Problems Psychology essay sample: Mental health and mental illness problems entangle some of the worst health conditions. It is vital to keep at bay the avoidable instigators of mental illness.
• Practitioners of Mental Health and Stigma Psychology essay sample: The paper shows differences that exist between clinical psychologists and psychiatrists and discusses the stigma and shame that are associated with seeking mental health treatment.
• Researching: Illness and Mental Health Psychology essay sample: The following paper will explain how mental health can be considered in ill patients and focused on a particular population
• Effects of Poverty on Mental Health Psychology essay sample: People who live in economically disadvantaged communities face several challenges pertaining to their mental health.
• Mental Health of Children in Dysfunctional Families Psychology essay sample: The literature review focuses on the comparison of different factors, which determine the state of children’s mental health.
• Cell Phones and Mental Health Psychology essay sample: Limited use of smartphones, current human companions, makes life easier and enjoyable, while excessive screen time may bring severe mental health consequences.
• COVID-19 Pandemic and College Students’ Mental Health Psychology essay sample: The current paper discusses that much higher education students have experienced increased anxiety or stress due to the pandemic.
• Who Is Responsible for My Mental Health? Psychology essay sample: In thinking about improving the psychological instability treatment framework, the main thing to do is demonstrate who is liable for an individual's emotional wellness.
• Mental Health Among Unaccompanied Refugee Children at U.S. Border Psychology essay sample: The selected topic for Strategic Plan is the mental health of unaccompanied children refugees at the U.S. border.
• The Sandy Hook Mass Shooting and Mental Health Problems Psychology essay sample: The Sandy Hook shooting became a national tragedy that was committed by a person who had mental health issues, complicated relations with parents, and violent tendencies.
• The Conceptualization of Mental Health Wellness Psychology essay sample: In the paper, the conceptualization of mental health wellness and programs' intervention will be articulated within the healthcare units to help families.
• Mental Wellness in Various Academic Perspectives Psychology essay sample: It is impossible to imagine the harmonious development of society and individual mental well-being if the humanities are popularized to such an extent that they lose their dialogical.
• Creative Art Therapy for Mental Illness Psychology essay sample: Some kinds of art can have an apparent positive effect on the psychological state, while others, on the contrary, can put a person in an unstable condition.
• Restoring Mental Well-Being Using Social Sciences Psychology essay sample: The social science lens focuses on interpersonal relationships and human interactions with social environments.
• "Girl, Interrupted": Mental Illness Analysis Psychology essay sample: James Mangold's film "The Girl, Interrupted" is the story of a fifteen-year-old girl who spent one year in a psychiatric hospital after trying to commit suicide.
• Maintaining Mental Health for Teenagers in the Pandemic Psychology essay sample: The paper states that the pandemic harmed students' lives, who more often began to experience stress and missed communicating with their classmates.
• Mental Health Support for Gay Forced Migrants Psychology essay sample: Search for political asylum due to gender issues has never been this vital to some people since they become persecuted for who they are.
• Mental Disorders Among Children and Adolescents Psychology essay sample: Mental disorders among children and adolescents are a significant problem worldwide, various mental health issues can have distinct causes resulting in a similar negative outcome.
• Assessing Mental Illness Stigma Psychology essay sample: The problem of stigmatized attitudes to mental diseases is still found in many areas of human life despite the spread of awareness about them.
• The Rate of College Students Seeking Treatment for Mental Health Psychology essay sample: The mental health of college students has been a growing concern over the last decade, with the issue being exacerbated by the challenges of modern education and realities.
• Lifespan Development and Mental Disorders Psychology essay sample: This essay discusses the factors leading to anxiety conditions during childhood and adolescent developmental stages and gives possible solutions.
• Involving Mental Stability of Malaysian University Students: Case Study Psychology essay sample: This paper aims to give a critical review of the design, purpose, and theories used in writing the scholarly journal "Positive Psychology of Malaysian University Students."
• Teaching Mental Health in Schools Psychology essay sample: Since teens often encounter such issues, addressing them by teaching mental health in schools may be a solution that can mitigate specific challenges.
• Mental Health in 12-18 Years Old During the COVID-19 Pandemic Psychology essay sample: During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important that people stay at home. Many adolescents between the age of 12-18 get bored at home during lockdowns.
• Mental Health of Refugees in America Psychology essay sample: Supporting the mental health of refugees in America should start with including mental health professionals in the rescue team to offer psychosocial help to the refugees.
• Adolescent Mental and Suicide Issues Psychology essay sample: This paper discusses four websites that provide information related to the topic of adolescent mental and suicide issues.
• Mental Health Disorders Most Commonly Found in Teenagers Psychology essay sample: The present essay focuses on anxiety, depression, and behavioral disorders because these mental health disorders are the most widely spread among teenagers.
• ADHD, Behavioral Issues, and Mental Health Psychology essay sample: The phenomenon of ADHD is a developmental issue that prevents children from developing relevant cognitive and socioemotional skills for quite a long.
• Mental Care Services and Mental Health Care Psychology essay sample: Proper access to mental care services and care is an essential aspect of a person's wellbeing, however, a plethora of factors impact one's ability to receive the needed support.
• Mental Health Care and Socioeconomic Factors Psychology essay sample: This research aims to determine the socioeconomic factors (SES) that impact a member of a minority community's decision to seek professional mental health help.
• Socioeconomic Status and Access to Mental Health Therapy Psychology essay sample: This research aims to determine the socioeconomic factors that impact a member of a minority community’s decision to seek professional mental health help.
• Psychological Health as an Integral Part of Health Psychology essay sample: This paper discusses the nature of the study, definitions of key terms, summary of the study on the topic of psychological health as an integral part of health.
• Divorce Processes' Impact on Children's Mental Health and Well-Being Psychology essay sample: Outlining the main consequences of the divorce processes manifested in affected children's well-being is an integral part of contemporary social studies.
• Mental Health Therapies for Transgender People in Lubbock, TX Psychology essay sample: This paper analyzes the main methods of therapy presented in the scientific literature and their integration and indications for use in the specified city.
• Bipolar Disorder: Mental Health in Social Work Psychology essay sample: Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is characterized by atypical mood swings, energy levels, and the ability to function.
• Americans’ Mental, Social and Behavioral Health Psychology essay sample: Help for a community requires a multifaceted approach that includes the investigation of all cultural, environmental, and personal aspects.
• Mental Health of Children: A Study of Human Rights Violations Through Terrorism Psychology essay sample: It can be concluded that there is a direct interlink between terrorist acts and various mental health disorders, including those among children, who are highly prone to mental trauma.
• Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Student Mental Health Psychology essay sample: Limiting the students' access to live communication contributes to stress, depression, feelings of loneliness, and other mental health issues.
• History of Mental Illness Stigma Psychology essay sample: A historical understanding of how individuals with mental illness were treated can help in reducing negative views and improving treatment.
• Mental Health and Mental Illness Psychology essay sample: The current paper describes mental health as a state of mind that allows an individual to responsibly contribute to society and the community.
• Aspects of Mental Health Interventions Psychology essay sample: The paper states that mental health interventions mean allowing a person who requires support to obtain it in the way that is most appropriate for it.
• Mental Disorders in the "Finding Nemo" Film Psychology essay sample: In Search of Nemo is a 2003 American computer-animated adventure film. According to the plot, a curious Nemo fish went to look for mysterious coral reefs one day.
• Mental Health Services for Healthcare Providers of Critical Patients Psychology essay sample: The project aims to evaluate the provision of mental health services for healthcare providers of critical patients in a primary care facility as its setting.
• Social Media and Mental Health Psychology essay sample: Ferguson discusses the impact of social media on the wellness of users, including topics such as online gaming, eating disorders, online pornography, and cyberbullying.
• Immigrants' Mental Health and Time Spent in the US Psychology essay sample: The hypothesis of this article is that the prolonged presence of immigrants in the United States for various reasons increases their stress levels.
• Divorce and Its Psychological Effects on Children Psychology essay sample: Divorce and the resulting lack of a supportive father figure in children’s lives often lead to mental health issues and, quite frequently, juvenile delinquency.
• Psychological Effects of a Divorce on Children Psychology essay sample: Even when implemented in a manner as delicate as possible, divorce leaves quite substantial marks on all those involved, children being the most vulnerable parties involved.
• Mental Health in Late Adulthood Psychology essay sample: The communicative aspect is perhaps the main factor that can affect the mental well-being of maturing people and strengthen their mental health.
• "Healing at the Eight Stages of Life" by Linn et al. Psychology essay sample: In the book "Healing at the Eight Stages of Life" Matthew Linn, Sheila Fabricant, and Dannis Linn offer to use prayer as a method for addressing developmental problems.
• "Cognitive Therapy for Personality Disorders" by Young Psychology essay sample: The book "Cognitive Therapy for Personality Disorders: A Schema Focused Approach" by Jeffery Young focuses on the method of helping clients address various personality disorders.
• Impact of Familial and Parental Issues on Children Psychology essay sample: The given paper will assess the current data on the correlational and causational reciprocity of problems and children’s mental and physical health.
• Management of Family Communication Issues Psychology essay sample: The case study presents a situation where Jeff is a single parent who has issues communicating with his 13-year-old son, Roger.

⭐ Simple & Easy Mental Health Essay Titles

• Traumatic Stress in the Justice System Psychology essay sample: The analysis of the article supported by the book shows that experiences of traumatic events in law enforcement affect police officers' mental health.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Children Psychology essay sample: Post-traumatic stress disorder in children violates mental activity that develops after an external psychologically traumatic event.
• Islamic Psychology and Its Contributors Psychology essay sample: The current paper states that Islamic psychology is a complex topic as there are numerous contributors that created a broad legacy of teachings.
• Psychological Disorders: Myths and Misconceptions Psychology essay sample: In today’s society, one prevalent misunderstanding and misperception about psychiatric disorders is that people with these conditions are violent and unstable.
• The Mental State of the Child: Impact of Divorce Psychology essay sample: This work contains a research proposal to determine the impact of divorce on the mental state of the child and the possibility of developing mother stigmatization.
• Stigmatization and Discrimination Psychology essay sample: The paper analyses how human behavior influences their judgment and the types of human conduct that people exhibit.
• Narrative Therapy: Patient Case Psychology essay sample: The narrative approach would be the most useful for the described case conceptualization, as it allows the person to separate the context and see these stories as situational.
• Sexual Violence and Mental Health Effects Psychology essay sample: Sexual violence is widespread and is used even against children. There are treatment options for negative mental health effects for sexually abused children.
• Secondary Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in Children Psychology essay sample: Understanding child PTSD is fundamental in determining or predicting the future tendencies and outcomes of future life in terms of health, behavior, and social well-being.
• A Gap in Equity Related to Mental Health Access for Veterans Psychology essay sample: This paper aims to explore the issue of limited attention dedicated to veterans' mental health needs, as well as the healthcare system's inability to address such issues.
• Childhood Trauma: Causes, Effects, and Preventive Measures Psychology essay sample: It is salient to understand the causative factors and the effects of childhood trauma while also highlighting applicable preventive measures.
• Mental Illness, Depression, and Wellness Issues Psychology essay sample: Mental illness and depression are a silent plague and a sleeper problem that has slipped into millions' brains, hence being highlighted in various forms of media.
• Self-Actualization in Mental Health Psychology essay sample: The film "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest", produced by Forman, focuses on mental health prisoners' different aspects and challenges during their time in prison.
• Why Family Systems Analysis Is Important Psychology essay sample: Family systems analysis, by relying on a view of the family as an emotional unit, facilitates the assessment of the parts of a family in relation to the whole.
• Counseling Native American Clients Psychology essay sample: Native Americans’ and other clients’ expectations and needs might differ drastically, including the need for culture-specific rituals to promote energy healing.
• Children’s Mental Health: Codependency and Alcoholic and Narcissistic Parents Psychology essay sample: The concept of codependency is one of the recurring themes in the discussions of childhood struggles, caused by alcoholic and narcissistic parents.
• Tarasoff v. Regents: Psychological Case Psychology essay sample: Tarasoff v. Regents case evokes the feeling of fairness and justice despite the ethics revolving around the mental health field.
• Living Conditions and Behavioral & Mental Patterns Psychology essay sample: The central paper's theory states that a person's life circumstances directly influence his behavior patterns.
• Negative Impact of Infertility on Human Psychology Psychology essay sample: There are stable social attitudes and values that exalt the role of motherhood and childhood, asserting mandatory parenthood.
• Benefits of Emotional Support Animals Psychology essay sample: The paper states that emotional support animals are essential as they offer social connection and a proper structure for mental health patients.
• Cats: The Mental Health Issues Psychology essay sample: The paper’s primary objective is to discuss feline mental health based on separation anxiety, behavioral categories, significant symptoms, risk factors, and implications.
• Student Mental Health: Dealing With Stress Psychology essay sample: The paper discusses the probability of positive outcomes of mindfulness practices on students’ mental health. The solution can help reduce depression symptoms.
• Psychoneuroendocrinology: Hormones and Their Significant Role Psychology essay sample: In "Psychoneuroendocrinology and clinical psychology," the researchers provided a differentiation between the various effects that hormones have on psychological health.
• Counseling for People with Mental Disabilities Psychology essay sample: People living with mental disabilities face numerous challenges in their daily lives, and their conditions are often difficult to treat because their causes can be unknown.
• Affordable Psychological Healthcare as an Everyday Problem Psychology essay sample: The appearance of COVID-19, mass shootings, the war in the middle of Europe, and many other situations negatively affect a person's mental state.
• Role of Group Therapy in Human Health Psychology essay sample: When struggling with challenging life events, people often feel alone, unsupported, and weak in their attempts to handle psychological issues.
• Traumatic Experiences in the Mental Health Field Psychology essay sample: Traumatic experiences, which are a prominent subject in the mental health field, afflict many young people. Traumatic events leave an indelible mark on a person's psyche.
• Methods of Promoting Mental Health and Well-Being
• Associations Between Parental Hearing Impairment and Children’s Mental Health
• Mental Health Nursing and Eating Disorder
• Abortion and Mental Health: The Role of Selection
• Bipolar Disorder: Mind and Mental Health
• Assessing the Need for a Specialist Service for People With Mental Health Problems
• Achieving Mental Health Through Anger Management
• Addictive Behaviors and Mental Health
• Solving Mental Health Problems of Immigrant Youth
• The Most Common Mental Health Problems
• Functions of Adolescent Mental Health Facilities
• Adolescent Satisfaction With Mental Health Services
• Mental Health Inequality for Veterans Equity in the provision of mental healthcare for veterans has been a recurring issue in the American healthcare system without permanent solutions.
• The Connection Between Adolescent Mental Health and Cigarette Smoking
• Adolf Hitler’s Mental Health in the Last Days of His Life
• Adults: Managing Mental Health
• Adverse Mental Health Impact of the Lockdown
• Advocating for Mental Health in the Health of Children
• Affordable Care Act: Implications for Mental Health Illness
• Impact of Aging on Mental Health
• Alcohol and Drug Abuse in Mental Health
• Analyzing Community Mental Health Recovery Model
• Mental Health Problems in Prison
• Policy Analysis Related to Mental Health Policy analysis aims to advise a decision-maker regarding a specific course of action on a public policy decision.
• The Role of Mental Health in Life Satisfaction in Adults
• Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Online Social Therapy for Youth Mental Health
• Assessment of Mental Health of Partners in the Perinatal Period
• Mental Health Among Adolescent Orphans
• Student Mental Health in Higher Education
• Associations Between Employment Changes and Mental Health
• Stigma Experiences With Family Among Adolescents With Mental Health Disorders
• School Programs for Mental Health
• The Mental Health of Transgender College Students
• Defining Primary Care Mental Health Clinical Assessment Priorities
• Bisexuality, Poverty and Mental Health
• Black and Minority Ethnic Group and Mental Health
• Borderline Personality Disorder Mental Health Treatment
• Abnormal Behavior and Mental Health
• Breastfeeding and Its Impact on Physical and Mental Health of a Child
• Bullying History and Mental Health in University Students
• Cannabis Use and Mental Health Problems
• Capacity Building for Post-disaster Mental Health
• Child and Adolescent Mental Health Policy in Low- And Middle-Income Countries
• The Stigma Surrounding Mental Health: Breaking Down Barriers and Stereotypes
• Mental Health in the Workplace: Strategies for Employee Well-Being
• Effects of Pandemics on Population-Wide Mental Health
• The Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health
• Mental Health and the Role of Family Support: An In-depth Analysis
• Early Childhood Trauma and Adult Mental Health Disorders
• Holistic Approaches to Wellness: Integrating Physical and Mental Health
• Benefits and Dangers of Self-Diagnosis in Mental Health
• Teletherapy: Expanding Access to Mental Health Care
• How Infertility Affects Mental Health in Women
• Cultural Diversity and Mental Health: Challenges and Considerations
• Mental Health Consequences of Long-Term Unemployment
• Integration of Yoga in Mental Health Treatment
• Childhood Adversity and Its Lifelong Effects on Mental Health
• Mental Health Within the Criminal Justice System: Rehabilitation vs. Punishment
• Cultural Nuances in Mental Health Diagnoses and Treatment
• The Connection Between Nutrition, Diet, and Mental Health
• Influence of Lifestyle Choices on Mental Health
• The Effects of Chronic Stress on Mental Health and Overall Well-being
• Social Determinants of Mental Health: Addressing Socioeconomic Factors
• Involuntary Commitment in Mental Health: Protection or Violation?
• The History of Mental Health Treatment
• Mental Health and Creativity: The Connection and Its Implications
• Negative Effects of Social Media on Mental Health
• Mental Health Stereotypes and Misconceptions
• The Connection Between Sleep Disorders and Mental Health Issues
• Maternal Mental Health and Infant Development
• Aging, Isolation, and Loneliness: Understanding Their Influence on Mental Health
• Workplace Mental Health: Policies and Practices
• The Benefits of Exercise and Physical Activity on Mental Health
• Can System Integration Improve Mental Health Outcomes for Children and Youth?
• Are Mental Health Issues Like Depression Related to Race?
• Can Mental Health Patients Benefit From a Healthy Eating Diet?
• How to Choose a Mental Health Specialist?
• Are People With Mental Health Problems at Increased Risk of Violence?
• Are Mental Health Insurance Mandates Effective?
• Can Meditation Promote Mental Health?
• Are Human Rights Infringed in Treatments for Mental Health?
• Is Mental Health a Barrier to Access to Postsecondary Access?
• Does the Criminal Justice System Treat People’s Mental Health Fairly?
• Does Childbirth Affect Mental Health?
• Is Obesity Linked to Mental Health?
• Can Childhood Trauma Lead to Mental Health Problems in Adulthood?
• What Are the Statistics of Mental Health Disorders?
• What Is the Children’s Mental Health Act?
• What Are the Mental Health Consequences of Natural Disasters?
• Are Mental Health Professionals at Risk of Burnout?
• How to Keep Mental Health Counselors Safe?
• How Effective Are Clinical Mental Health Counseling Services?
• Is It Appropriate to Use Color Therapy in the Treatment of Mental Health?
• What Are Some Ways to Raise Mental Health Awareness?
• Combining Work and Family: What Are the Mental Health Risks?
• What Are the Theories of Mental Health?
• What Are the Problems of Collaboration Between Child Protection and Mental Health Services?
• Does Compulsive Sexual Behavior Affect Mental Health?
• Do Mental Health Professionals Respect Privacy?
• Are People With Mental Health Problems at an Increased?
• What Is the Stigma Around Mental Health Treatment?
• Is There a Correlation Between Mental Health and the Number of Gun-Related Crimes?
• Can Exercise Improve Mental Health?

Cite this page

Select style

• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

PsychologyWriting. (2024, May 24). 212 Mental Health Research Topics & Essay Examples. https://psychologywriting.com/topics/mental-health-research-topics/

"212 Mental Health Research Topics & Essay Examples." PsychologyWriting , 24 May 2024, psychologywriting.com/topics/mental-health-research-topics/.

PsychologyWriting . (2024) '212 Mental Health Research Topics & Essay Examples'. 24 May.

PsychologyWriting . 2024. "212 Mental Health Research Topics & Essay Examples." May 24, 2024. https://psychologywriting.com/topics/mental-health-research-topics/.

1. PsychologyWriting . "212 Mental Health Research Topics & Essay Examples." May 24, 2024. https://psychologywriting.com/topics/mental-health-research-topics/.

Bibliography

PsychologyWriting . "212 Mental Health Research Topics & Essay Examples." May 24, 2024. https://psychologywriting.com/topics/mental-health-research-topics/.

📕 Studying HQ

100+ argumentative essay topics on mental health | example & outline, bob cardens.

• September 2, 2022
• Essay Topics and Ideas

Argumentative Essay Topics on Mental Health. Mental health is an important and often overlooked topic. In this article, we’ll explore some argumentative essay topics related to mental health .

As you continue,  thestudycorp.com  has the top and most qualified writers to help with any of your assignments. All you need to do is  place an order  with us.

What You'll Learn

Argumentative Essay Topics about Mental Health

1. Is there a connection between mental health and physical health? 2. How does mental illness affect a person’s ability to function in society? 3. What are the most effective treatments for mental illness? 4. Are there any effective prevention strategies for mental illness? 5. What is the relationship between mental health and substance abuse? 6. How does poverty affect mental health? 7. What are the most common mental disorders? 8. What are the consequences of untreated mental illness? 9. What are the risk factors for developing mental illness? 10. How can mental illness be effectively diagnosed?

Working on your Abstract, here are  DNP Capstone project Abstract Examples [Outline & How-to]

Read more on  Patient Falls Nursing Capstone Project Ideas & Topics with Prompts

Find out more  Capstone Project Ideas for Nursing Leadership [50 Topics]

check out  130+ Good nursing capstone project ideas to Write About )

The literature review is one of the most challenging parts of your DNP capstone, here’s  How to write a DNP Capstone Project Literature Review

The guidelines include  How to write DNP capstone project Methodology Chapter

Argumentative essay topics about depression

1. Depression is a real mental health condition.

2. Depression is more than just feeling sad.

3. Depression can lead to serious physical health problems.

4. Depression is treatable with medication and therapy.

5. People with depression can lead happy, fulfilling lives.

6. Untreated depression can be deadly.

7. Depression is often misunderstood and stigmatized.

8. Depression is not a sign of weakness or a character flaw.

9. Anyone can develop depression, even people who seem to have it all together.

10. There is no single cause of depression, but there are risk factors that can make someone more likely to develop the condition.

Argumentative Essay Topics on Mental Health. Mental health is an important and often overlooked topic. In this article, we’ll explore some argumentative essay topics related to mental health.

Argumentative essay about mental health in schools

1. Mental health should be taught in schools. 2. There should be more support for mental health in schools. 3. Mental health should be taken more seriously in schools. 4. Schools should do more to prevent mental health problems. 5. Schools should do more to help students with mental health problems. 6. Mental health problems are increasing in schools. 7. school counselors are not trained to deal with mental health issues 8. most school don’t have a mental health policy 9. lack of awareness about mental health among school staff 10. stigma and discrimination against mental health patients

Argumentative essay on mental health stigma

Argumentative essay topics about mental health can be very controversial and sensitive. However, there are many people who are open to discussing these topics and raising awareness about mental health. Here are twenty argumentative essay topics about mental health that you can use for your next essay.

1. How does society view mental health? 2. Do we need to break the stigma around mental health? 3. How can we better support those with mental health conditions? 4. What is the link between mental health and addiction? 5. How does trauma affect mental health? 6. What are the most effective treatments for mental health conditions? 7. Are there any natural remedies for mental health conditions? 8. How does diet affect mental health? 9. How does exercise affect mental health? 10. What is the link between sleep and mental health? 11. What are the warning signs of a mental health condition? 12. When should someone seek professional help for a mental health condition? 13. How can family and friends support someone with a mental health condition? 14. What are the most common myths about mental health? 15. How does stigma impact those with mental health conditions?

16. How can we destigmatize mental health? 17. What is the link between mental health and violence? 18. How does mental health affect overall health? 19. What are the most common mental health disorders? 20. What are the most effective treatments for mental health disorders?

Mental health debate topics for students

1. The definition of mental health 2. The different types of mental illness 3. The causes of mental illness 4. The treatments for mental illness 5. The side effects of mental illness 6. The impact of mental illness on society 7. The cost of mental health care 8. Mental health in the workplace 9. Mental health in the media 10. Stigma and discrimination against those with mental illness 11. The impact of trauma on mental health 12. Mental health during pregnancy and postpartum 13. Children’s mental health 14. Geriatric mental health 15. Global perspectives on mental health 16. Religion and mental health 17. Cultural competence in mental health care 18. Social media and mental health 19.Nutrition and mental health

20. Exercise and mental health

Expository essay topics about mental illness

1. How does mental illness affect one’s ability to work? 2. What are the most common types of mental illness? 3. How can mental illness be prevented? 4. What are the most effective treatments for mental illness? 5. How does mental illness impact relationships? 6. What are the financial costs of mental illness? 7. How does stigma affect those with mental illness? 8. What are the most common myths about mental illness? 9. How does mental illness differ from addiction? 10. What are the early warning signs of mental illness?

Debates about mental health

1. The definition of mental health is contested and argued by professionals in the field. 2. Some people argue that mental health is a social construction, while others believe that it is a real and valid medical condition. 3. Mental health is often stigmatized in society, and those who suffer from mental illness are often seen as weak or crazy. 4. Mental health is often viewed as something that can be cured, when in reality it is a lifelong battle for many people. 5. Mental illness is often seen as an individual responsibility to deal with, when in reality it affects not just the individual but also their families and loved ones. 6. It is often said that people with mental illness are not able to function in society, when in fact many people with mental illness are high-functioning individuals. 7. Mental health is often viewed as an all-or-nothing proposition, when in reality there is a spectrum of mental health conditions that range from mild to severe. 8. People with mental illness are often treated differently than other people, and they are often discriminated against. 9. There is a lot of misinformation about mental health, and this leads tomisunderstanding and fear. 10. Mental health is a complex issue, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution to addressing it.

Persuasive topics related to mental health

1. The link between mental health and physical health. 2. The benefits of therapy and counseling. 3. The importance of early intervention for mental health issues. 4. The impact of trauma on mental health. 5. The correlation between mental health and substance abuse. 6. The connection between mental health and chronic illness. 7. The relationship between mental health and chronic pain. 8. Mental health in the workplace. 9. Mental health in the military. 10. Mental health in schools. 11. Children’s mental health issues. 12. Teens and mental health issues. 13. Elderly mental health issues. 14. Cultural issues and mental health. 15. Religion and mental health. 16. The stigma of mental illness. 17. Mental health awareness and education. 18. Mental health advocacy. 19. Funding for mental health services. 20. Access to mental health care.

Start by filling this short order form order.studyinghq.com

And then follow the progressive flow. 

Having an issue, chat with us here

Cathy, CS. 

New Concept ? Let a subject expert write your paper for You​

Have a subject expert write for you now, have a subject expert finish your paper for you, edit my paper for me, have an expert write your dissertation's chapter, popular topics.

Business Analysis Examples Essay Topics and Ideas How to Guides Nursing

• Nursing Solutions
• Study Guides
• Free College Essay Examples
• Privacy Policy
• Writing Service 
• Discounts / Offers 

Study Hub: 

• Studying Blog
• Topic Ideas 
• How to Guides
• Business Studying 
• Nursing Studying 
• Literature and English Studying

Writing Tools  

• Citation Generator
• Topic Generator
• Paraphrasing Tool
• Conclusion Maker
• Research Title Generator
• Thesis Statement Generator
• Summarizing Tool
• Terms and Conditions
• Confidentiality Policy
• Cookies Policy
• Refund and Revision Policy

Our samples and other types of content are meant for research and reference purposes only. We are strongly against plagiarism and academic dishonesty. 

Contact Us:

📧 [email protected]

📞 +15512677917

2012-2024 © studyinghq.com. All rights reserved

Mental Health - List of Free Essay Examples And Topic Ideas

This section is dedicated to argumentative and persuasive essays on mental health awareness in the United States. Mental illness and psychological problems are social issues that require a solution. A student can represent their point of view and perspective through an argumentative essay about mental health. What causes this problem and which is the solution would be perfect subjects for this type of paper.

It’s always a challenging task for students to reflect on illnesses, so to get a hint on how to start writing, you can look at the thesis statement and research paper samples on mental health on our website.

As often, start with a coherent introduction, outline, and title planning the structure of a paper. Consult research essay topics and argumentative topics if necessary.

Having studied all the samples, topics for ideas, and mental illness essay examples compose the main part, giving reasons for the mental diseases, ways to cure them, and arguments on why a mental illness should be considered a severe health problem.

Supply of Mental Health Insurance Coverage

Introduction Affordable medical care provisions offers the best services for mental health, this is after the introduction of the Affordable Care Act. The act requires that all individuals and employers subscribe to the insurance benefit plan. Purity in mental health acts like a rectifier of unfairness in the health insurance. However due to the increasing mental problems the total spending has increased, based on results from the health insurance companies (Schroeder, 2012). Another evidence has suggested and found it prudent […]

Mental Health Counseling

I am a mental health social worker at a mental health agency. My major role in the agency is to counsel the mentally ill clients. The counseling is as a result of the ideology that individuals with serious mental illness are examined to encounter a variety of barriers that are likely to impede their development in career. Competencies for the course The mental health counseling has different competencies that include having genuine interest in others. In this, one is required […]

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

Particularly most of the trained nurses theatres a vital role in mental health depending on field of specialty. Hence, in this level my main concept of concern will be based psychiatric nurses with which have chosen to pursue for my masters level. Regardless of the education, I am ascertained by the specialization and exposure as it gives skills to handle some of the technical responsibilities with most of the patients. This practitioners serve primarily in the care of mental health […]

We will write an essay sample crafted to your needs.

Social Media and Mental Health

Technology. Are we better off with it or without it? Can we keep up with the problems that it causes? These are the questions that are on everyone’s mind, especially those of us who deal with adolescents. Those of us who basically grew up last century (1950 – 1980) saw a lot of changes in technology. Those changes for the most part were ones that made daily life better. The television, computers, the internet, and different parts of the medical […]

Mental Health and Obesity

The obesity rate in America is at an all-time high, and it seems there is no end in sight. Obesity not only affects adults, but children as well. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines obesity as “Weight that is higher than what is considered as a healthy weight for a given height.” (CDC, 2016) Soccer not only improves physical health and lessens obesity, but also mental health. Working out at least once a day makes a person […]

Effects of Childhood Trauma on Children Development

Anyone can experience trauma at any time. The trauma can be caused by nature, human beings or by oneself. People endure much when they experience trauma and their ability to handle it can determine the level of the effect of the trauma and their long-term well-being. Reportedly, children are incredibly susceptible to trauma because their brain and coping skills are still developing. Thus, they often grapple with long terms effects of uncontrolled trauma. While childhood trauma may vary regarding pervasiveness […]

Mental Health Concerns for Children in Foster Care

Child maltreatment often results in removal from the parental home and increases the risk for behavioral health concerns.  The foster care experience can further increase this risk.  It is therefore wise to consider aspects of mental health for children in foster care including prevalence, risk, treatment, and policy recommendations. Keywords: child maltreatment, foster care, mental health, behavioral health, adverse childhood experiences Children who have experienced maltreatment are often placed in foster care.  Not only does child maltreatment increase the risk […]

Veterans Mental Health Care

Mental health disparities affect a large amount of population across the United States. However, nobody is more affected by unstable mental health than those members of the military and their families. With the increase in the need for security in different areas of the world, military soldiers are deployed to assist in securing and protecting those areas. Often, these soldiers see combat and are affected in their mental state. Not only are the soldiers affected by the deployment, their families […]

Effects of Childhood Trauma on Development and Adulthood

It is no secret that experiencing childhood trauma can have many negative effects on an individual’s life both in childhood and adulthood. Trauma can include events such as physical or sexual abuse, surviving a serious car accident, witnessing a violent event, and more. As trauma is defined in the dictionary as a deeply distressing or disturbing experience, it is no surprise that a disturbing event during childhood can have negative effects throughout an individual’s lifetime. However, this paper will dive […]

The Mental Health Stigma

Mental health holds no bias on who it targets, no matter your gender, race, religion, sexual orientation or country you reside in, you or someone you know can suffer from a mental health disorder. Regardless of how merciless mental disorders can be, there is still an overbearing stigma behind it all. Some say it doesn’t exist, others say you are “crazy” and most importantly it is not acceptable to talk about in schools or at work without fear of being […]

Mental Health Problem Solution

As many know, mental illness has affected many individuals for quite some time, affecting individuals from every age spectrum, and for some disorders, every recorded era. Many have developed different ways to treat their illness. Some help and some showed no progress. But why is it still so relevant, yet irrelevant, in our current society? Many know it exists, yet, they stay narrowly-minded fixated to only physiological health issues. Many theorize that it may be because of some medical field’s […]

Applied Behavior Analysis and its Effects on Autism

Abstract During my research i have found several studies that have been done to support the fact that Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) does in fact make a positive impact on children with Autism through discrete trials. It is based on the thought that when a child is rewarded for a positive behavior or correct social interaction the process will want to be repeated. Eventually one would phase out the reward. Dr Lovaas, who invented this method, has spent his career […]

How Cyberbullying Impact on Mental Health

Abstract Cyberbullying has been at an all time high since the invention of technology. With the use of cell phones and the internet it now easier then ever for adolescents to bully one another through text messages, social media, and through email. The internet it an extraordinary piece of technology but it can also be used to bully others. The majority of adolescents who bully through the internet or text messages don’t understand or know the dangers and how harmful […]

Soldier’s Mental Health in all Quiet on the Western Front

All Quiet on the Western Front is a novel written by Erich Maria Remarque, and this book is based on the setting of World War 1. It explores the perspective of a German soldier named Paul Baumer going through his experience of being in the war and giving the readers the lens about the reality of war. The book also focuses on the soldiers’ feelings on the detachment from the civilian life they felt when returning home from the front. […]

The Impact of Friendships on a Woman’s Mental Health

Abstract Friendships are one of the most valuable relationships we have on this planet. I would almost say that we need it as much as we need food and water. Because God created us as relational creatures, we crave relationships with each other (Matthew 22:36-40 New International Version). We cannot survive without closeness to one another. In her article Roberto stated that “friendships are an important part of the informal social network of most older adults” (Roberto, 1997 p.1). There […]

The Negative Effects of Social Media on Mental Health

The rapid growth of social media began in the early 2000s and has not slowed down since. The most popular platforms include Instagram, Snapchat, YouTube, and Facebook which all allow people to share photos and videos of themselves, their family and friends, their everyday activities, express their own views and opinions and connect in so many other ways. It has given a voice to anyone with access to a computer or phone and also helps enhance learning opportunities. But social […]

Drug Abuse – Destructive Pattern

Drug abuse is the destructive pattern of using substances that leads to uncounted problems and diseases in the human body. It is a physical and psychological term which takes dependence on human activities. Drugs create bad effects on human life like anxiety, impaired social relations, depression, hopelessness, rejection etc. Impaired social relations and suicide are considered the worst consequences of addiction. The drugs have negative consequences on one's life. If the addicts were able to see the reality of their […]

Mental Health in Schools

Gun safety and mental health concerns have been at battle for many years and have currently escalated with the rise in school shootings across the country. Research about what schools have done to prevent such travesties are interesting to note. Are zero tolerance policies really effective? Or do these issues stem beyond the trigger? Student and teacher protestors can be seen outside state capital and national buildings urging lawmakers to make changes to the policies regarding state and national gun […]

Mental Health of Teens and the Catcher in the Rye

What people never understand is that depression isn't about the outside; it's about the inside, a quote asserted by Jasmine Warga. Associating with the black cloud of depression by concealing one's true feelings is the way many people were brought up by. Depression has a way of silently striking a person, similar to the way it overtook Holden Caulfield, in the book The Catcher in the Rye (genre: literary realism), written by J.D Salinger. Although Holden Caulfield was never clearly […]

Mental Health and Social Media

On June 14th, 2017, 12-year-old Mallory Grossman took her life away after being told to kill herself on Snapchat. A girl who was extremely involved, bright, and enthusiastic, was completely tormented by bullies online. It all started at school, but she could never escape the bullying once she got home and hopped on social media. They sent the 12-year-old mean messages through posts on Instagram and Snapchat, calling her “fat”, “a loser”, and even more cruel, proposing her to kill […]

The Dark Side of Adoption: Mental Health in Adoptees

To an outsider, the idea of adoption may seem as a very fruitful endeavor – the birth family gets spared of the financial and time-consuming burden that can come with having another child while the said adoptee gets placed into a more stable environment, with a family who can provide for them in ways the birth family cannot. While on paper this ideology might ring with a perfect tune, to those who have lived as adoptees know the tone to […]

The Brain of a Psycopath

Psychopathy refers to a complex condition that encompasses affective and interpersonal traits like lack of behavior control, guilt, remorse, lack of empathy promiscuity and glibness (Kiehl). A lot is known about psychopathy assessment however, little is known about the associated brain disturbances. It's a severe mental disorder and believed to affect about 1% of global population (Kiehl). This paper discusses three areas of psychopaths brain including amygdala, the prefrontal cortex and extended paralimbic structures. Psychopaths have minimal activity both in […]

Exercise Benefits for Physical and Mental Health

Everyone knows that exercise helps your physical health and can help you lose weight, but is that the most important part of exercise? The more research that is done on overall health we are finding that exercise doesn’t just help your physical health, but also can help release stress, help your immune system, improve mental health, and help impact the body in almost every way. There is more to it than just going out and running or lifting weights and […]

Importance of Mental Health

What is Mental Health? According to(mentalhealth.gov) “mental health includes our emotional, psychological and social well-being, which affects how we think, feel, act, relate to others and handle stress and everyone is affected by it.” In life, you are faced with countless challenges and some being more extreme than the other. For example, dealing with the loss of a loved one now, although that's something very hard to deal with eventually people with bounce back and cope overtime but sadly some […]

Domestic Violence and Women’s Mental Health

Domestic violence occurs worldwide irrespective of culture, geographical and historical period. There are many factors that cause or lead to domestic violence and they are: Unmet role expectations. Unmet role expectations on the part of the wife or husband could lead to domestic violence in the family. If women fail to fulfil basic domestic responsibilities such as cooking, cleaning, managing household budgets and taking care of child, it often leads to domestic violence. Child care was a source of argument […]

Marijuana Mental Health Depression

Within the past five years there has been an increase in availability for marijuana and an increase in attitudes for marijuana. 20 states have legalized marijuana for medical use (NORML). 8 states have legalized marijuana for medical and recreational use (NORML). Fifty-seven percent of American adults support the legalization, and 69% of American adults believe alcohol is more harmful to your health than marijuana (pewsearch.org). Due to the increased interest of marijuana, it has raised some questions especially concerning mental […]

The Unfamiliar Childhood Disorder – Reactive Attachment Disorder

The purpose of this paper is that a study was conducted for the diagnosis of Reactive attachment dsorder (RAD). This study was assessed with using the Relationships Problem Questionnaire (RPQ) and Reactive Attachment Disorder – Checklist (RAD-C). Chronbach's alpha of was used to test inter-rater, reliability and test-retest reliability (Thrall, Hall, Golden, & Sheaffer, 2009). There were fifty-three parents and caregivers who participated in the study. The first group were composed of children and adolescents who had former diagnoses of […]

Mental Health Screenings and the Effect on Gun Violence

Historically speaking, guns were used for hunting and for protection. In the late 1700's, the Revolutionary War began from Britain's pursuit to take away the colonists weaponry and oppress them. Lexington and Concord was the beginning of the fight for freedom. When Britain surrendered at Yorktown in 1781, the colonists had won their independence. The first constitution called the Articles of Confederation was ratified by all thirteen colonies in 1781 and was in place until 1789 when the U.S Constitution […]

Crime and Punishment: Women Mental Health in Prison

An unsafe living environment is a risk factor for many future crimes, as young women who run away from home to avoid abuse are more likely to get involved in drug distribution, prostitution and property crime (DeHart, 2008). Drug distribution, prostitution and property crime (such as robbery and theft) become their only source of fast and reliable income while substance abuse is an unfortunate and tragic by-product of the drug trade, as many women self-medicate in an attempt to cope […]

Schizophrenia: Mind and Mental Health

Psychological clarity is something that everyone strives for. A mind that is free from abundant clutter and jumbled thoughts that bring on stress and negativity. Everyone wants a mind that is able to recognize what is presented to it. A reliable psyche that is free from hallucinations and unwanted paranoia. Even though clarity can be achieved, certain illnesses can hinder individuals from reaching it. There are a multitude of disorders that affect the mind in more ways than one. The […]

Related topic

Additional example essays.

• Poor Nutrition and Its Effects on Learning
• Substance Abuse and Mental Illnesses
• PTSD in Veterans
• Moving to a New School
• Documentary Film "Three Identical Strangers" Analysis
• Alzheimer's Disease Still Alice
• Where Can We Find Hamlet in Our Lives
• The Thin Documentary Analysis: Eating Disorder
• The Extraordinary Science of Addictive Junk Food
• Drunk Driving
• A Research Paper on Alzheimer's Disease
• Oedipus is a Tragic Hero

How To Write An Essay On Mental Health

Introduction to mental health as an essay topic.

When writing an essay on mental health, it's essential to understand its complexity and significance in today's society. Mental health refers to the state of our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act, and it also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. In your introduction, define mental health and its importance in maintaining overall well-being. Clarify the specific aspect of mental health you plan to explore, whether it's discussing a particular mental disorder, examining the impact of mental health on various life aspects, or analyzing mental health policies. This introduction should provide a clear context for your essay and highlight its relevance.

Exploring the Various Aspects of Mental Health

Dedicate the main body of your essay to a thorough exploration of your chosen aspect of mental health. If focusing on a specific mental disorder, discuss its symptoms, causes, and treatment options. For a broader approach, you might analyze the factors that contribute to good or poor mental health, such as genetics, environment, lifestyle, and societal influences. Include current research and statistics to back up your points and provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic. Remember to handle the subject with sensitivity and empathy, especially when discussing conditions that may affect your readers or their loved ones.

Addressing Challenges and Misconceptions

Another critical aspect of your essay should be addressing the challenges and misconceptions surrounding mental health. Discuss the stigma often associated with mental illness and its impact on individuals seeking help or treatment. Examine the barriers to accessing mental health care, such as cost, lack of resources, or cultural attitudes. You can also explore common misconceptions about mental health and how they hinder societal understanding and support for those affected. This section is crucial in shedding light on the obstacles faced in the realm of mental health and advocating for a more informed and supportive approach.

Concluding with the Importance of Mental Health Awareness

In your conclusion, summarize the main points discussed in your essay and reflect on the significance of mental health awareness and support. Emphasize the need for open dialogue, education, and comprehensive care to promote mental well-being. Discuss how increasing mental health awareness can benefit individuals and society as a whole, leading to a more empathetic and healthier community. Your conclusion should not only tie together your analysis but also inspire readers to recognize the importance of mental health and advocate for better support and resources in their communities.

1. Tell Us Your Requirements

2. Pick your perfect writer

3. Get Your Paper and Pay

Hi! I'm Amy, your personal assistant!

Don't know where to start? Give me your paper requirements and I connect you to an academic expert.

short deadlines

100% Plagiarism-Free

Certified writers

16 Personal Essays About Mental Health Worth Reading

Here are some of the most moving and illuminating essays published on BuzzFeed about mental illness, wellness, and the way our minds work.

BuzzFeed Staff

1. My Best Friend Saved Me When I Attempted Suicide, But I Didn’t Save Her — Drusilla Moorhouse

"I was serious about killing myself. My best friend wasn’t — but she’s the one who’s dead."

2. Life Is What Happens While You’re Googling Symptoms Of Cancer — Ramona Emerson

"After a lifetime of hypochondria, I was finally diagnosed with my very own medical condition. And maybe, in a weird way, it’s made me less afraid to die."

3. How I Learned To Be OK With Feeling Sad — Mac McClelland

"It wasn’t easy, or cheap."

4. Who Gets To Be The “Good Schizophrenic”? — Esmé Weijun Wang

"When you’re labeled as crazy, the “right” kind of diagnosis could mean the difference between a productive life and a life sentence."

5. Why Do I Miss Being Bipolar? — Sasha Chapin

"The medication I take to treat my bipolar disorder works perfectly. Sometimes I wish it didn’t."

6. What My Best Friend And I Didn’t Learn About Loss — Zan Romanoff

"When my closest friend’s first baby was stillborn, we navigated through depression and grief together."

7. I Can’t Live Without Fear, But I Can Learn To Be OK With It — Arianna Rebolini

"I’ve become obsessively afraid that the people I love will die. Now I have to teach myself how to be OK with that."

8. What It’s Like Having PPD As A Black Woman — Tyrese Coleman

"It took me two years to even acknowledge I’d been depressed after the birth of my twin sons. I wonder how much it had to do with the way I had been taught to be strong."

9. Notes On An Eating Disorder — Larissa Pham

"I still tell my friends I am in recovery so they will hold me accountable."

10. What Comedy Taught Me About My Mental Illness — Kate Lindstedt

"I didn’t expect it, but stand-up comedy has given me the freedom to talk about depression and anxiety on my own terms."

11. The Night I Spoke Up About My #BlackSuicide — Terrell J. Starr

"My entire life was shaped by violence, so I wanted to end it violently. But I didn’t — thanks to overcoming the stigma surrounding African-Americans and depression, and to building a community on Twitter."

12. Knitting Myself Back Together — Alanna Okun

"The best way I’ve found to fight my anxiety is with a pair of knitting needles."

13. I Started Therapy So I Could Take Better Care Of Myself — Matt Ortile

"I’d known for a while that I needed to see a therapist. It wasn’t until I felt like I could do without help that I finally sought it."

14. I’m Mending My Broken Relationship With Food — Anita Badejo

"After a lifetime struggling with disordered eating, I’m still figuring out how to have a healthy relationship with my body and what I feed it."

15. I Found Love In A Hopeless Mess — Kate Conger

"Dehoarding my partner’s childhood home gave me a way to understand his mother, but I’m still not sure how to live with the habit he’s inherited."

16. When Taking Anxiety Medication Is A Revolutionary Act — Tracy Clayton

"I had to learn how to love myself enough to take care of myself. It wasn’t easy."

Topics in this article

• Mental Health

Talk to our experts

1800-120-456-456

• Mental Health Essay

Essay on Mental Health

According to WHO, there is no single 'official' definition of mental health. Mental health refers to a person's psychological, emotional, and social well-being; it influences what they feel and how they think, and behave. The state of cognitive and behavioural well-being is referred to as mental health. The term 'mental health' is also used to refer to the absence of mental disease. 

Mental health means keeping our minds healthy. Mankind generally is more focused on keeping their physical body healthy. People tend to ignore the state of their minds. Human superiority over other animals lies in his superior mind. Man has been able to control life due to his highly developed brain. So, it becomes very important for a man to keep both his body and mind fit and healthy. Both physical and mental health are equally important for better performance and results.

Importance of Mental Health 

An emotionally fit and stable person always feels vibrant and truly alive and can easily manage emotionally difficult situations. To be emotionally strong, one has to be physically fit too. Although mental health is a personal issue, what affects one person may or may not affect another; yet, several key elements lead to mental health issues.

Many emotional factors have a significant effect on our fitness level like depression, aggression, negative thinking, frustration, and fear, etc. A physically fit person is always in a good mood and can easily cope up with situations of distress and depression resulting in regular training contributing to a good physical fitness standard. 

Mental fitness implies a state of psychological well-being. It denotes having a positive sense of how we feel, think, and act, which improves one’s ability to enjoy life. It contributes to one’s inner ability to be self-determined. It is a proactive, positive term and forsakes negative thoughts that may come to mind. The term mental fitness is increasingly being used by psychologists, mental health practitioners, schools, organisations, and the general population to denote logical thinking, clear comprehension, and reasoning ability.

 Negative Impact of Mental Health

The way we physically fall sick, we can also fall sick mentally. Mental illness is the instability of one’s health, which includes changes in emotion, thinking, and behaviour. Mental illness can be caused due to stress or reaction to a certain incident. It could also arise due to genetic factors, biochemical imbalances, child abuse or trauma, social disadvantage, poor physical health condition, etc. Mental illness is curable. One can seek help from the experts in this particular area or can overcome this illness by positive thinking and changing their lifestyle.

Regular fitness exercises like morning walks, yoga, and meditation have proved to be great medicine for curing mental health. Besides this, it is imperative to have a good diet and enough sleep. A person needs 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night on average. When someone is tired yet still can't sleep, it's a symptom that their mental health is unstable. Overworking oneself can sometimes result in not just physical tiredness but also significant mental exhaustion. As a result, people get insomnia (the inability to fall asleep). Anxiety is another indicator. 

There are many symptoms of mental health issues that differ from person to person and among the different kinds of issues as well. For instance, panic attacks and racing thoughts are common side effects. As a result of this mental strain, a person may experience chest aches and breathing difficulties. Another sign of poor mental health is a lack of focus. It occurs when you have too much going on in your life at once, and you begin to make thoughtless mistakes, resulting in a loss of capacity to focus effectively. Another element is being on edge all of the time.

It's noticeable when you're quickly irritated by minor events or statements, become offended, and argue with your family, friends, or co-workers. It occurs as a result of a build-up of internal irritation. A sense of alienation from your loved ones might have a negative influence on your mental health. It makes you feel lonely and might even put you in a state of despair. You can prevent mental illness by taking care of yourself like calming your mind by listening to soft music, being more social, setting realistic goals for yourself, and taking care of your body. 

Surround yourself with individuals who understand your circumstances and respect you as the unique individual that you are. This practice will assist you in dealing with the sickness successfully.  Improve your mental health knowledge to receive the help you need to deal with the problem. To gain emotional support, connect with other people, family, and friends.  Always remember to be grateful in life.  Pursue a hobby or any other creative activity that you enjoy.

What does Experts say

Many health experts have stated that mental, social, and emotional health is an important part of overall fitness. Physical fitness is a combination of physical, emotional, and mental fitness. Emotional fitness has been recognized as the state in which the mind is capable of staying away from negative thoughts and can focus on creative and constructive tasks. 

He should not overreact to situations. He should not get upset or disturbed by setbacks, which are parts of life. Those who do so are not emotionally fit though they may be physically strong and healthy. There are no gyms to set this right but yoga, meditation, and reading books, which tell us how to be emotionally strong, help to acquire emotional fitness. 

Stress and depression can lead to a variety of serious health problems, including suicide in extreme situations. Being mentally healthy extends your life by allowing you to experience more joy and happiness. Mental health also improves our ability to think clearly and boosts our self-esteem. We may also connect spiritually with ourselves and serve as role models for others. We'd also be able to serve people without being a mental drain on them. 

Mental sickness is becoming a growing issue in the 21st century. Not everyone receives the help that they need. Even though mental illness is common these days and can affect anyone, there is still a stigma attached to it. People are still reluctant to accept the illness of mind because of this stigma. They feel shame to acknowledge it and seek help from the doctors. It's important to remember that "mental health" and "mental sickness" are not interchangeable.

Mental health and mental illness are inextricably linked. Individuals with good mental health can develop mental illness, while those with no mental disease can have poor mental health. Mental illness does not imply that someone is insane, and it is not anything to be embarrassed by. Our society's perception of mental disease or disorder must shift. Mental health cannot be separated from physical health. They both are equally important for a person. 

Our society needs to change its perception of mental illness or disorder. People have to remove the stigma attached to this illness and educate themselves about it. Only about 20% of adolescents and children with diagnosable mental health issues receive the therapy they need. 

According to research conducted on adults, mental illness affects 19% of the adult population. Nearly one in every five children and adolescents on the globe has a mental illness. Depression, which affects 246 million people worldwide, is one of the leading causes of disability. If  mental illness is not treated at the correct time then the consequences can be grave.

One of the essential roles of school and education is to protect boys’ and girls' mental health as teenagers are at a high risk of mental health issues. It can also impair the proper growth and development of various emotional and social skills in teenagers. Many factors can cause such problems in children. Feelings of inferiority and insecurity are the two key factors that have the greatest impact. As a result, they lose their independence and confidence, which can be avoided by encouraging the children to believe in themselves at all times. 

To make people more aware of mental health, 10th October is observed as World Mental Health. The object of this day is to spread awareness about mental health issues around the world and make all efforts in the support of mental health.

The mind is one of the most powerful organs in the body, regulating the functioning of all other organs. When our minds are unstable, they affect the whole functioning of our bodies. Being both physically and emotionally fit is the key to success in all aspects of life. People should be aware of the consequences of mental illness and must give utmost importance to keeping the mind healthy like the way the physical body is kept healthy. Mental and physical health cannot be separated from each other. And only when both are balanced can we call a person perfectly healthy and well. So, it is crucial for everyone to work towards achieving a balance between mental and physical wellbeing and get the necessary help when either of them falters.

19 Ideas for Essays About Mental Health Topics

Do you need some ideas for writing essays about mental health topics? Here are 19 angles to get you started.

Mental health concerns are on the rise in America. According to Mental Health America , one out of every five people suffers from a mental health disorder or illness. Yet over half of the adults who need mental health treatment do not get it.

The efficacy of mental health diagnosis and treatment in America is open to debate, making a good starting point for engaging essays. If you are writing an essay on mental health, choosing the right prompt can help you develop a thought-provoking piece that people engage with.

From discussing the cause of mental illness to analyzing why mental health concerns are rising, these 19 ideas for essays about mental health topics will get you started.

For help with your essays, check out our round-up of the best essay checkers .

1. What Are the Main Mental Health Risk Factors

2. why are mental illnesses seeing increases in numbers in modern times, 3. why schools need mental health services, 4. what are the most common psychological conditions, 5. are anorexia or bulimia mental health disorders, 6. what are biological factors that put someone at risk for psychiatric disorders and mental health concerns, 7. the effects of depression on everyday life, 8. how does poverty affect mental health, 9. is substance abuse a mental health condition, 10. what are the symptoms of ptsd, 11. can low-income americans get good psychological and mental health care, 12. what is the main cause of depression in children, 13. what brain disorders are most common today, 14. how well is the mental health system reaching people who need it, 15. does trauma or substance abuse affect the most people, 16. what factors affect the mental health of men/women, 17. what is the impact of the stigma surrounding mental health, 18. what is the impact of social media on mental health, 19. is america suffering a mental health crisis.

According to Mayo Clinic, risk factors increase the likelihood of someone developing a particular disorder or problem, and mental health has risk factors just like physical health issues do. This essay topic could explore what those factors are.

After identifying these concerns, you could write about what a person could do to limit their risk. This explanation will help the reader take action to protect their mental health if they have underlying concerns that make a mental health condition more likely.

According to the World Health Organization , mental health issues are growing in modern society, but few have asked why. This question is difficult to answer because it varies. Sometimes, the added stress of everyday life contributes to mental health issues. Genetics can also be a cause. Society is becoming more aware of mental health disorders and open to talking about them, leading to people getting accurate diagnoses more quickly.

As you delve into the research on this essay topic, pick a few of these reasons to look at more closely. Build an essay around your study and the main reason or reasons you choose it.

Mental health problems are not restricted to adults. Many children, including very young children, struggle with mental disorders. Ensuring that schools have mental health services, even at the elementary level, can help combat this growing trend .

This essay looks at why mental health problems in kids are on the rise. It then explores the role schools and teachers have to play in that. With the proper support, students can get diagnosed more quickly and start appropriate treatments.

The most common mental health conditions are depression, anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Discussing these five problems, their causes and treatments work well for your essay.

When writing this essay, make sure to look at causes, prevalence, and treatment options. Discuss these mental health conditions carefully, so people reading the essay are encouraged to get help if they need it.

Eating disorders are sometimes classified as mental health concerns, and this topic can work well for a mental health essay. Anorexia is a condition where a person does not eat to lose weight or have some control over an out-of-control situation. Bulimia involves over-eating on food, often unhealthy, then forced vomiting to get the food out of the system. These are common issues, but are they mental health conditions? Answering this question with thorough research can set the stage for an engaging essay.

Once you decide whether or not eating disorders are mental health disorders, take some time to discuss treatment. You may have people reading your essay who suffer from these disorders or know someone who does, so give them the resources they need to get help.

Are there specific biological factors that make someone more prone to mental health disorders? Does identifying these factors make it easier for someone to get help when they start suffering from a severe mental illness?

While not all mental health disorders have a biological cause, getting an accurate diagnosis for those that do helps people get appropriate treatment. Explore the link between these factors and the treatment of mental health disorders in your essay.

Depression is a common form of mental illness that affects many people, affecting  over 18% of the population . This essay topic will discuss how depression impacts the daily life of someone who has the disorder. Are they able to function and hide their condition, or is it pronounced?

This discussion should clearly state that depression shows up differently for different people. It can be easy to hide from people, so friends and family are unaware and can’t encourage the depressed individual to get help. The essay could also discuss subtle signs of depression in adults and adolescents, so readers can watch for these signs and help their loved ones protect their emotional well-being.

Does being poor make someone more prone to mental health illness? This essay must be steeped in research because you do not want to shame someone who has a difficult time in life. However, there is a connection between poverty and mental health issues , which could be an interesting angle for your essay.

After establishing the link, use your essay to discuss solutions to this problem. Are there social solutions limiting poverty or providing mental health treatment to impoverished populations to help with this trend?

Addiction is a severe problem that has long-lasting effects. Yet is it a mental health condition? Some would argue that it is, but some would say it is not. If it falls under the auspices of mental health care, it should have treatment just like other mental health conditions.

As you research this topic, you will find that people have a strong divide. You will need to choose a side and then use the body of your essay to defend that choice.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is commonly discussed in today’s society as many soldiers are coming back from war suffering severe PTSD symptoms. Yet any trauma can cause PTSD. It does not have to be war-related to impact someone’s life strongly.

Your essay can look at the common symptoms of PTSD. It should explore both the apparent symptoms and the more subtle signs that someone is suffering from post-traumatic stress. It could also discuss what therapies are the most effective for this condition.

There seems to be a problem in America that limits low-income individuals from getting mental health treatment when they need it. This essay topic will look at this problem and present potential solutions to it.

This is a multifaceted problem. Sometimes, the issue is the lack of education in low-income populations that keep them from seeking psychiatric help. Sometimes it stems from a lack of insurance coverage for this problem among a low-income population. In your essay, discuss all sides of this issue to develop a potential solution.

A growing number of young children are dealing with depression . Parents and teachers who learn the signs can help these young people get mental health treatment early. This essay topic idea will explore some potential reasons for this increasing trend.

Remember that anyone, regardless of age, can struggle with depression. Finding the underlying cause is usually helpful in determining the best course of treatment. That is what this essay idea seeks to discover.

Brain disorders are disorders like Alzheimer’s, schizophrenia, and personality disorder that come from actual changes in the brain . Use your essay to discuss the most common brain disorders and their potential treatments through your research.

Brain disorders are a specialized area of psychiatry and mental health treatment. Because these problems involve changes to the structure and chemistry of the brain, they require a unique type of treatment. Your essay could discuss how people can seek appropriate treatment if they or a loved one suffers from a brain disorder.

This essay looks at the current structure to help people with mood disorders, depression, and other mental health concerns. Is access to care available to most people? Is the care sufficient? Does insurance cover enough treatment to provide an effective remedy?

These are difficult questions to answer and require some research, but they are also essential. This essay could help you explore why people aren’t getting the help they need.

Both trauma and substance abuse are mental health disorders that affect a large percentage of the population, but which has the most impact? This essay will explore which of these two is the most impactful and why. Then, you could discuss the best course of treatment for the one you choose.

To write this essay, first, research the most impactful, then discuss why that may be.

Men and women can face mental health concerns, but the factors that impact them will differ. Choose one population group, and explore what has the most significant impact on their mental health. Use that to create an engaging essay.

You could even discuss both and compare and contrast the differences. You may find a bit of overlap, but you should see some distinctions.

Many people refuse to get mental health treatment because they fear the stigma . They feel that seeking treatment will leave them embarrassed and isolated, so they continue suffering from their medical condition for many years.

This essay could discuss what causes this stigma and why it makes people neglect the treatments they need. It could then talk about ways to lessen this stigma and make mental health treatment more available and accepted in modern society.

Social media use has had a significant impact on the number of people suffering from mental health conditions. This reality creates an exciting essay topic idea, as you can explore this link and the potential reasons. There are many ways you can approach this line of thought in your essay, including talking about possible solutions to the problem of social media and its impact on overall mental health.

Because social media will not go away anytime soon, consider options that allow people to continue using it while protecting their mental health. By creating awareness, your essay could help someone stop the struggle with self-image and mental health due to too much social media usage.

You might also be interested in our round-up of the best medical authors of all time .

There is a marked increase in mental health concerns in America, but are we suffering a mental health crisis? The answer to this question could make for an interesting essay. Keep in mind that you will need to prove the opinion you choose, so do some careful research.

If you determine a mental health crisis, consider adding some information about what could be done to resolve it in your essay. This problem is complex, but solutions exist, so explore some of them.

We have other articles to support your essay writing, have a look at  transition words for essays  once you start building your argument.

Bryan Collins is the owner of Become a Writer Today. He's an author from Ireland who helps writers build authority and earn a living from their creative work. He's also a former Forbes columnist and his work has appeared in publications like Lifehacker and Fast Company.

View all posts

Transforming the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses.

Información en español

Celebrating 75 Years! Learn More >>

• Science News
• Meetings and Events
• Social Media
• Press Resources
• Email Updates
• Innovation Speaker Series

NIH Announces Winners of 2023-2024 High School Mental Health Essay Contest

May 31, 2024 • Institute Update

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is pleased to announce the winners of the  2024 Speaking Up About Mental Health    essay contest. Out of more than 370 submissions across 33 states, NIH awarded 24 youth (ages 16-18) finalists with gold, silver, bronze, and honorable mention prizes.

Supported by the National Institute of Mental Health, the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, and the  Eunice Kennedy Shriver  National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, the essay contest invited youth to address mental health and reduce mental health stigma that young people may face when seeking mental health treatment.

The winning essays addressed complicated topics such as stigma, trauma, resilience, equity, anxiety, and more. Teens also wrote about specific ideas for improving well-being, such as broader access to leisure sports, reducing time spent on social media, and normalizing mental health treatment and care.

NIH awarded a total of $15,000 in cash prizes to gold, silver, bronze, and honorable mention recipients. Read the winning essays at  nimhd.nih.gov/EssayContest   .

Gold winners

• Max, California - Tenacity Through Tumultuousness
• Michaela, Maryland - Exposing the Impact of Social Media on Teenage Mental Health: A Journey of Self-Discovery
• Raphael, Hawaii  - Let's CHAT: Mental Health Impact on Teens Living with Speech Challenges

Silver winners

• Aditi, California – Embracing Authenticity
• Anna, New York - Change Our Approach: How Sports Can Play a Role in Mental Health
• Ciniyah, Illinois - The Roots Affect the Fruit: A Personal Journey of Trauma to Triumph
• Kathleen, Maryland - Behind A Perfect Life
• Paige, Texas - Learn to Live and Accept Your Journey
• Rylie, Maryland - Drowning in Plain Sight

Bronze winners

• Argiro, Pennsylvania - Out in the Open: A Conversation about Mental Health
• Dresden, Maryland - Normalize the Care to Destigmatize the Conditions
• Gabriel, New Jersey - Keeping My Head Up: My Experience with Dad's Brain Cancer
• Hailey, Arkansas - Access for Adolescent Athletes
• Jordan, New Jersey - A Weighted Wait
• Kathryne, North Carolina - Embracing Openness: Unveiling Silent Struggles Surrounding Mental Health
• Maya, Maryland - Speaking up for Change
• Rachel, California - Embracing the Journey Towards Mental Health Acceptance
• Savannah, New Jersey - Taking a Step Today, for a Better Tomorrow

Honorable mentions

• Agaana, Maryland – Accountability for Authority: The Responsibilities of Schools
• Gisele, Pennsylvania - Breaking the Silence
• Jillian, Illinois - Navigating Mental Illness in Teens
• Kyle, North Carolina - How the Neglect of Mental Health Within Black Communities Causes Underlying Issues
• Mason, Maryland - Social Media as a Possible Method to Reduce Mental Health Stigma
• Minsung, Georgia - Hope to Bridge the Gap

If you are in crisis and need immediate help, call or text the  988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline     at  988  (para ayuda en español, llame al 988) to connect with a trained crisis counselor. The Lifeline provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. The deaf and hard of hearing can contact the Lifeline using their preferred relay service or by dialing 711 and then 988.

• Mission and Vision
• Scientific Advancement Plan
• Science Visioning
• Research Framework
• Minority Health and Health Disparities Definitions
• Organizational Structure
• Staff Directory
• About the Director
• Director’s Messages
• News Mentions
• Presentations
• Selected Publications
• Director's Laboratory
• Congressional Justification
• Congressional Testimony
• Legislative History
• NIH Minority Health and Health Disparities Strategic Plan 2021-2025
• Minority Health and Health Disparities: Definitions and Parameters
• NIH and HHS Commitment
• Foundation for Planning
• Structure of This Plan
• Strategic Plan Categories
• Summary of Categories and Goals
• Scientific Goals, Research Strategies, and Priority Areas
• Research-Sustaining Activities: Goals, Strategies, and Priority Areas
• Outreach, Collaboration, and Dissemination: Goals and Strategies
• Leap Forward Research Challenge
• Future Plans
• Research Interest Areas
• Research Centers
• Research Endowment
• Community Based Participatory Research Program (CBPR)
• SBIR/STTR: Small Business Innovation/Tech Transfer
• Solicited and Investigator-Initiated Research Project Grants
• Scientific Conferences
• Training and Career Development
• Loan Repayment Program (LRP)
• Data Management and Sharing
• Social and Behavioral Sciences
• Population and Community Health Sciences
• Epidemiology and Genetics
• Medical Research Scholars Program (MRSP)
• Coleman Research Innovation Award
• Health Disparities Interest Group
• Art Challenge
• Breathe Better Network
• Healthy Hearts Network
• DEBUT Challenge
• Healthy Mind Initiative
• Mental Health Essay Contest
• Science Day for Students at NIH
• Fuel Up to Play 60 en Español
• Brother, You're on My Mind
• Celebrating National Minority Health Month
• Reaching People in Multiple Languages
• Funding Strategy
• Active Funding Opportunities
• Expired Funding Opportunities
• Technical Assistance Webinars

• Community Health and Population Sciences
• Clinical and Health Services Research
• Integrative Biological and Behavioral Sciences
• Intramural Research Program
• Training and Diverse Workforce Development
• Inside NIMHD
• ScHARe HDPulse PhenX SDOH Toolkit Understanding Health Disparities For Research Applicants For Research Grantees Research and Training Programs Reports and Data Resources Health Information for the Public Science Education

• NIMHD Programs
• Education and Outreach
• 2024 Awardees
• Max: 2024 Mental Health Essay

• Extramural Research
• Intramural Research
• NIMHD Collaborations
• Fuel Up to Play 60 en Espanol
• COVID-19 Information and Resources

2024 Mental Health Essay Contest Awardee: Gold

Tenacity Through Tumultuousness

Max, california.

For as long as I can remember, pockmarks and scars littered my body: irreparable symptoms from an invisible illness named major depressive disorder. Seemingly paradoxical, I owe my resilience to this battle with suicidality and self-harm; It is through these experiences that I connect, uplift, and challenge my community to shape a society that functions for us: a dream I strive to continue feeding.

At the age of 14, my entanglement with depression officially acquired a name. All it took was: hospitalization, IVs, six blood draws, and middle-of-the-night visits from the head doctor. My survival leads me to vouch for the validity of other teens’ mental healths – regardless of the severity or attached medical bills. On the cusp of adolescence, the only route for me to circumnavigate the stigmatization behind a diagnosis was to commit to the unthinkable–a route no one should feel forced to take. This goes to say that no matter the struggle, mental health is utterly vital to wellbeing: especially for teenagers. Yes, puberty is a difficult time, but that doesn’t negate the importance of equipping youth with the resources and courage to ask for help before it becomes too late. For me, I proudly tell my story so others can tell theirs. Baring my own healed scars, I hope others will soon, too, recognize the beauty in life’s hardships and complexities.

To uplift students like myself, I proudly serve my school district’s superintendent advisory board – a platform I utilize to advocate for my peers as well as spearhead Seity Health, an app Garden Grove Unified pilots to amplify student mental health support. With modern technology, the app layout is convenient to access via daily check-ins. However, I aim to encourage direct teacher mediation and training so our educators can better address the needs of their students firsthand. I’ve recognized my voice is crucial, empowering me to propose these ideas to the Superintendent. Through my own transparency and advocacy, I’ve encouraged students to take the leap of faith for support while ensuring adequate measures are implemented. Mental health was never a conversation for the shadows, and it’s my job as a survivor to bring its realities and resources to life.

Taking away from my past, I’ve utilized my experience to connect with similar folks to actualize change. Notably, my participation with nonprofit OCAPICA during their voter registration canvassing campaign specifically targeted the needs of community members. Over several weeks, I engaged in robust conversations with fellow neighbors door-to-door with questions such as, “Are you aware of the mental health services nearby?” and “Do you feel adequately supported?”. It was my own journey that allowed me to authentically relate to the marginalized neighborhoods in my area, opening dialogues that are essential to the functioning of support systems like OCAPICA. Compassion drives the community: through my own experience as a youth facing mental health struggle, I’ve propelled a deeper connection amongst my community through policy work and honesty.

All in all, my mental illness led me to a vital insight: in order to create future leaders, our current role models must remain cognizant of the challenges that threaten to uproot our youth.

The problem here is not mental illness; the problem here is stigmatization, lack of resources, and reduced emotional capacity that envelope already struggling adolescents. This generation’s ability to succeed is not hindered by our mental health: it is directly due to our perseverance in the face of this struggle that we become leaders.

NIH recognizes these talented essay winners for their thoughtfulness and creativity in addressing youth mental health. These essays are written in the students' own words, are unedited, and do not necessarily represent the views of NIH, HHS, or the federal government.

Page published May 31, 2024

May 2024: NIH Announces Winners of High School Mental Health Essay Contest

Dec. 2023: High School Students Invited to Reflect on Mental Health Stigma in National Essay Contest

National Institute of Mental Health

National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities

Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

Staying Connected

• Funding Opportunities  
• News & Events  
• HHS Vulnerability Disclosure  
• Privacy/Disclaimer/Accessibility Policy  
• Viewers & Players  

• Share full article

When Prison and Mental Illness Amount to a Death Sentence

The downward spiral of one inmate, Markus Johnson, shows the larger failures of the nation’s prisons to care for the mentally ill.

Supported by

By Glenn Thrush

Photographs by Carlos Javier Ortiz

Glenn Thrush spent more than a year reporting this article, interviewing close to 50 people and reviewing court-obtained body-camera footage and more than 1,500 pages of documents.

• Published May 5, 2024 Updated May 7, 2024

Markus Johnson slumped naked against the wall of his cell, skin flecked with pepper spray, his face a mask of puzzlement, exhaustion and resignation. Four men in black tactical gear pinned him, his face to the concrete, to cuff his hands behind his back.

He did not resist. He couldn’t. He was so gravely dehydrated he would be dead by their next shift change.

Listen to this article with reporter commentary

“I didn’t do anything,” Mr. Johnson moaned as they pressed a shield between his shoulders.

It was 1:19 p.m. on Sept. 6, 2019, in the Danville Correctional Center, a medium-security prison a few hours south of Chicago. Mr. Johnson, 21 and serving a short sentence for gun possession, was in the throes of a mental collapse that had gone largely untreated, but hardly unwatched.

He had entered in good health, with hopes of using the time to gain work skills. But for the previous three weeks, Mr. Johnson, who suffered from bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, had refused to eat or take his medication. Most dangerous of all, he had stealthily stopped drinking water, hastening the physical collapse that often accompanies full-scale mental crises.

Mr. Johnson’s horrific downward spiral, which has not been previously reported, represents the larger failures of the nation’s prisons to care for the mentally ill. Many seriously ill people receive no treatment . For those who do, the outcome is often determined by the vigilance and commitment of individual supervisors and frontline staff, which vary greatly from system to system, prison to prison, and even shift to shift.

The country’s jails and prisons have become its largest provider of inpatient mental health treatment, with 10 times as many seriously mentally ill people now held behind bars as in hospitals. Estimating the population of incarcerated people with major psychological problems is difficult, but the number is likely 200,000 to 300,000, experts say.

Many of these institutions remain ill-equipped to handle such a task, and the burden often falls on prison staff and health care personnel who struggle with the dual roles of jailer and caregiver in a high-stress, dangerous, often dehumanizing environment.

In 2021, Joshua McLemore , a 29-year-old with schizophrenia held for weeks in an isolation cell in Jackson County, Ind., died of organ failure resulting from a “refusal to eat or drink,” according to an autopsy. In April, New York City agreed to pay $28 million to settle a lawsuit filed by the family of Nicholas Feliciano, a young man with a history of mental illness who suffered severe brain damage after attempting to hang himself on Rikers Island — as correctional officers stood by.

Mr. Johnson’s mother has filed a wrongful-death suit against the state and Wexford Health Sources, a for-profit health care contractor in Illinois prisons. The New York Times reviewed more than 1,500 pages of reports, along with depositions taken from those involved. Together, they reveal a cascade of missteps, missed opportunities, potential breaches of protocol and, at times, lapses in common sense.

Prison officials and Wexford staff took few steps to intervene even after it became clear that Mr. Johnson, who had been hospitalized repeatedly for similar episodes and recovered, had refused to take medication. Most notably, they did not transfer him to a state prison facility that provides more intensive mental health treatment than is available at regular prisons, records show.

The quality of medical care was also questionable, said Mr. Johnson’s lawyers, Sarah Grady and Howard Kaplan, a married legal team in Chicago. Mr. Johnson lost 50 to 60 pounds during three weeks in solitary confinement, but officials did not initiate interventions like intravenous feedings or transfer him to a non-prison hospital.

And they did not take the most basic step — dialing 911 — until it was too late.

There have been many attempts to improve the quality of mental health treatment in jails and prisons by putting care on par with punishment — including a major effort in Chicago . But improvements have proved difficult to enact and harder to sustain, hampered by funding and staffing shortages.

Lawyers representing the state corrections department, Wexford and staff members who worked at Danville declined to comment on Mr. Johnson’s death, citing the unresolved litigation. In their interviews with state police investigators, and in depositions, employees defended their professionalism and adherence to procedure, while citing problems with high staff turnover, difficult work conditions, limited resources and shortcomings of co-workers.

But some expressed a sense of resignation about the fate of Mr. Johnson and others like him.

Prisoners have “much better chances in a hospital, but that’s not their situation,” said a senior member of Wexford’s health care team in a deposition.

“I didn’t put them in prison,” he added. “They are in there for a reason.”

Markus Mison Johnson was born on March 1, 1998, to a mother who believed she was not capable of caring for him.

Days after his birth, he was taken in by Lisa Barker Johnson, a foster mother in her 30s who lived in Zion, Ill., a working-class city halfway between Chicago and Milwaukee. Markus eventually became one of four children she adopted from different families.

The Johnson house is a lively split level, with nieces, nephews, grandchildren and neighbors’ children, family keepsakes, video screens and juice boxes. Ms. Johnson sits at its center on a kitchen chair, chin resting on her hand as children wander over to share their thoughts, or to tug on her T-shirt to ask her to be their bathroom buddy.

From the start, her bond with Markus was particularly powerful, in part because the two looked so much alike, with distinctive dimpled smiles. Many neighbors assumed he was her biological son. The middle name she chose for him was intended to convey that message.

“Mison is short for ‘my son,’” she said standing over his modest footstone grave last summer.

He was happy at home. School was different. His grades were good, but he was intensely shy and was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in elementary school.

That was around the time the bullying began. His sisters were fierce defenders, but they could only do so much. He did the best he could, developing a quick, taunting tongue.

These experiences filled him with a powerful yearning to fit in.

It was not to be.

When he was around 15, he called 911 in a panic, telling the dispatcher he saw two men standing near the small park next to his house threatening to abduct children playing there. The officers who responded found nothing out of the ordinary, and rang the Johnsons’ doorbell.

He later told his mother he had heard a voice telling him to “protect the kids.”

He was hospitalized for the first time at 16, and given medications that stabilized him for stretches of time. But the crises would strike every six months or so, often triggered by his decision to stop taking his medication.

His family became adept at reading signs he was “getting sick.” He would put on his tan Timberlands and a heavy winter coat, no matter the season, and perch on the edge of his bed as if bracing for battle. Sometimes, he would cook his own food, paranoid that someone might poison him.

He graduated six months early, on the dean’s list, but was rudderless, and hanging out with younger boys, often paying their way.

His mother pointed out the perils of buying friendship.

“I don’t care,” he said. “At least I’ll be popular for a minute.”

Zion’s inviting green grid of Bible-named streets belies the reality that it is a rough, unforgiving place to grow up. Family members say Markus wanted desperately to prove he was tough, and emulated his younger, reckless group of friends.

Like many of them, he obtained a pistol. He used it to hold up a convenience store clerk for $425 in January 2017, according to police records. He cut a plea deal for two years of probation, and never explained to his family what had made him do it.

But he kept getting into violent confrontations. In late July 2018, he was arrested in a neighbor’s garage with a handgun he later admitted was his. He was still on probation for the robbery, and his public defender negotiated a plea deal that would send him to state prison until January 2020.

An inpatient mental health system

Around 40 percent of the about 1.8 million people in local, state and federal jails and prison suffer from at least one mental illness, and many of these people have concurrent issues with substance abuse, according to recent Justice Department estimates.

Psychological problems, often exacerbated by drug use, often lead to significant medical problems resulting from a lack of hygiene or access to good health care.

“When you suffer depression in the outside world, it’s hard to concentrate, you have reduced energy, your sleep is disrupted, you have a very gloomy outlook, so you stop taking care of yourself,” said Robert L. Trestman , a Virginia Tech medical school professor who has worked on state prison mental health reforms.

The paradox is that prison is often the only place where sick people have access to even minimal care.

But the harsh work environment, remote location of many prisons, and low pay have led to severe shortages of corrections staff and the unwillingness of doctors, nurses and counselors to work with the incarcerated mentally ill.

In the early 2000s, prisoners’ rights lawyers filed a class-action lawsuit against Illinois claiming “deliberate indifference” to the plight of about 5,000 mentally ill prisoners locked in segregated units and denied treatment and medication.

In 2014, the parties reached a settlement that included minimum staffing mandates, revamped screening protocols, restrictions on the use of solitary confinement and the allocation of about $100 million to double capacity in the system’s specialized mental health units.

Yet within six months of the deal, Pablo Stewart, an independent monitor chosen to oversee its enforcement, declared the system to be in a state of emergency.

Over the years, some significant improvements have been made. But Dr. Stewart’s final report , drafted in 2022, gave the system failing marks for its medication and staffing policies and reliance on solitary confinement “crisis watch” cells.

Ms. Grady, one of Mr. Johnson’s lawyers, cited an additional problem: a lack of coordination between corrections staff and Wexford’s professionals, beyond dutifully filling out dozens of mandated status reports.

“Markus Johnson was basically documented to death,” she said.

‘I’m just trying to keep my head up’

Mr. Johnson was not exactly looking forward to prison. But he saw it as an opportunity to learn a trade so he could start a family when he got out.

On Dec. 18, 2018, he arrived at a processing center in Joliet, where he sat for an intake interview. He was coherent and cooperative, well-groomed and maintained eye contact. He was taking his medication, not suicidal and had a hearty appetite. He was listed as 5 feet 6 inches tall and 256 pounds.

Mr. Johnson described his mood as “go with the flow.”

A few days later, after arriving in Danville, he offered a less settled assessment during a telehealth visit with a Wexford psychiatrist, Dr. Nitin Thapar. Mr. Johnson admitted to being plagued by feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness and “constant uncontrollable worrying” that affected his sleep.

He told Dr. Thapar he had heard voices in the past — but not now — telling him he was a failure, and warning that people were out to get him.

At the time he was incarcerated, the basic options for mentally ill people in Illinois prisons included placement in the general population or transfer to a special residential treatment program at the Dixon Correctional Center, west of Chicago. Mr. Johnson seemed out of immediate danger, so he was assigned to a standard two-man cell in the prison’s general population, with regular mental health counseling and medication.

Things started off well enough. “I’m just trying to keep my head up,” he wrote to his mother. “Every day I learn to be stronger & stronger.”

But his daily phone calls back home hinted at friction with other inmates. And there was not much for him to do after being turned down for a janitorial training program.

Then, in the spring of 2019, his grandmother died, sending him into a deep hole.

Dr. Thapar prescribed a new drug used to treat major depressive disorders. Its most common side effect is weight gain. Mr. Johnson stopped taking it.

On July 4, he told Dr. Thapar matter-of-factly during a telehealth check-in that he was no longer taking any of his medications. “I’ve been feeling normal, I guess,” he said. “I feel like I don’t need the medication anymore.”

Dr. Thapar said he thought that was a mistake, but accepted the decision and removed Mr. Johnson from his regular mental health caseload — instructing him to “reach out” if he needed help, records show.

The pace of calls back home slackened. Mr. Johnson spent more time in bed, and became more surly. At a group-therapy session, he sat stone silent, after showing up late.

By early August, he was telling guards he had stopped eating.

At some point, no one knows when, he had intermittently stopped drinking fluids.

‘I’m having a breakdown’

Then came the crash.

On Aug. 12, Mr. Johnson got into a fight with his older cellmate.

He was taken to a one-man disciplinary cell. A few hours later, Wexford’s on-site mental health counselor, Melanie Easton, was shocked by his disoriented condition. Mr. Johnson stared blankly, then burst into tears when asked if he had “suffered a loss in the previous six months.”

He was so unresponsive to her questions she could not finish the evaluation.

Ms. Easton ordered that he be moved to a 9-foot by 8-foot crisis cell — solitary confinement with enhanced monitoring. At this moment, a supervisor could have ticked the box for “residential treatment” on a form to transfer him to Dixon. That did not happen, according to records and depositions.

Around this time, he asked to be placed back on his medication but nothing seems to have come of it, records show.

By mid-August, he said he was visualizing “people that were not there,” according to case notes. At first, he was acting more aggressively, once flicking water at a guard through a hole in his cell door. But his energy ebbed, and he gradually migrated downward — from standing to bunk to floor.

“I’m having a breakdown,” he confided to a Wexford employee.

At the time, inmates in Illinois were required to declare an official hunger strike before prison officials would initiate protocols, including blood testing or forced feedings. But when a guard asked Mr. Johnson why he would not eat, he said he was “fasting,” as opposed to starving himself, and no action seems to have been taken.

‘Tell me this is OK!’

Lt. Matthew Morrison, one of the few people at Danville to take a personal interest in Mr. Johnson, reported seeing a white rind around his mouth in early September. He told other staff members the cell gave off “a death smell,” according to a deposition.

On Sept. 5, they moved Mr. Johnson to one of six cells adjacent to the prison’s small, bare-bones infirmary. Prison officials finally placed him on the official hunger strike protocol without his consent.

Mr. Morrison, in his deposition, said he was troubled by the inaction of the Wexford staff, and the lack of urgency exhibited by the medical director, Dr. Justin Young.

On Sept. 5, Mr. Morrison approached Dr. Young to express his concerns, and the doctor agreed to order blood and urine tests. But Dr. Young lived in Chicago, and was on site at the prison about four times a week, according to Mr. Kaplan. Friday, Sept. 6, 2019, was not one of those days.

Mr. Morrison arrived at work that morning, expecting to find Mr. Johnson’s testing underway. A Wexford nurse told him Dr. Young believed the tests could wait.

Mr. Morrison, stunned, asked her to call Dr. Young.

“He’s good till Monday,” Dr. Young responded, according to Mr. Morrison.

“Come on, come on, look at this guy! You tell me this is OK!” the officer responded.

Eventually, Justin Duprey, a licensed nurse practitioner and the most senior Wexford employee on duty that day, authorized the test himself.

Mr. Morrison, thinking he had averted a disaster, entered the cell and implored Mr. Johnson into taking the tests. He refused.

So prison officials obtained approval to remove him forcibly from his cell.

‘Oh, my God’

What happened next is documented in video taken from cameras held by officers on the extraction team and obtained by The Times through a court order.

Mr. Johnson is scarcely recognizable as the neatly groomed 21-year-old captured in a cellphone picture a few months earlier. His skin is ashen, eyes fixed on the middle distance. He might be 40. Or 60.

At first, he places his hands forward through the hole in his cell door to be cuffed. This is against procedure, the officers shout. His hands must be in back.

He will not, or cannot, comply. He wanders to the rear of his cell and falls hard. Two blasts of pepper spray barely elicit a reaction. The leader of the tactical team later said he found it unusual and unnerving.

The next video is in the medical unit. A shield is pressed to his chest. He is in agony, begging for them to stop, as two nurses attempt to insert a catheter.

Then they move him, half-conscious and limp, onto a wheelchair for the blood draw.

For the next 20 minutes, the Wexford nurse performing the procedure, Angelica Wachtor, jabs hands and arms to find a vessel that will hold shape. She winces with each puncture, tries to comfort him, and grows increasingly rattled.

“Oh, my God,” she mutters, and asks why help is not on the way.

She did not request assistance or discuss calling 911, records indicate.

“Can you please stop — it’s burning real bad,” Mr. Johnson said.

Soon after, a member of the tactical team reminds Ms. Wachtor to take Mr. Johnson’s vitals before taking him back to his cell. She would later tell Dr. Young she had been unable to able to obtain his blood pressure.

“You good?” one of the team members asks as they are preparing to leave.

“Yeah, I’ll have to be,” she replies in the recording.

Officers lifted him back onto his bunk, leaving him unconscious and naked except for a covering draped over his groin. His expressionless face is visible through the window on the cell door as it closes.

‘Cardiac arrest.’

Mr. Duprey, the nurse practitioner, had been sitting inside his office after corrections staff ordered him to shelter for his own protection, he said. When he emerged, he found Ms. Wachtor sobbing, and after a delay, he was let into the cell. Finding no pulse, Mr. Duprey asked a prison employee to call 911 so Mr. Johnson could be taken to a local emergency room.

The Wexford staff initiated CPR. It did not work.

At 3:38 p.m., the paramedics declared Markus Mison Johnson dead.

Afterward, a senior official at Danville called the Johnson family to say he had died of “cardiac arrest.”

Lisa Johnson pressed for more information, but none was initially forthcoming. She would soon receive a box hastily crammed with his possessions: uneaten snacks, notebooks, an inspirational memoir by a man who had served 20 years at Leavenworth.

Later, Shiping Bao, the coroner who examined his body, determined Mr. Johnson had died of severe dehydration. He told the state police it “was one of the driest bodies he had ever seen.”

For a long time, Ms. Johnson blamed herself. She says that her biggest mistake was assuming that the state, with all its resources, would provide a level of care comparable to what she had been able to provide her son.

She had stopped accepting foster care children while she was raising Markus and his siblings. But as the months dragged on, she decided her once-boisterous house had become oppressively still, and let local agencies know she was available again.

“It is good to have children around,” she said. “It was too quiet around here.”

Read by Glenn Thrush

Audio produced by Jack D’Isidoro .

Glenn Thrush covers the Department of Justice. He joined The Times in 2017 after working for Politico, Newsday, Bloomberg News, The New York Daily News, The Birmingham Post-Herald and City Limits. More about Glenn Thrush

Advertisement

Vol 5, No 1 (2024)

• By Sections

Celebrating a Storied History: Moscow Preobrazhenskaya Mental Hospital Marks its 245 th Anniversary

• Authors: Burygina L.A. 1 , Golubev S.A. 1 , Filipchenko O.V. 1
• Mental-health Clinic No. 4 named after P. B. Gannushkin
• Issue: Vol 4, No 1 (2023)
• Pages: 64-72
• Section: INFORMATION
• URL: https://consortium-psy.com/jour/article/view/3704
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.17816/CP3704

About the authors

Supplementary files.

In 2022, Mental-health Clinic No. 4 named after P. B. Gannushkin, one of the oldest mental health institutions in Russia known as Preobrazhenskaya Hospital before the October Revolution of 1917, celebrated its 245 th anniversary. The history of the hospital reflects all stages of the evolution of the basic principles and aspects of mental health care in Russia. On many occasions, the institution served as a platform for eminent researchers and clinicians to achieve scientific breakthroughs and their application in practice. This article is a review of the major milestones in the history of the hospital. It highlights the great achievements of its psychiatrists and presents some previously unpublished archival documents that offer a new perspective on the history of Preobrazhenskaya Hospital.

INTRODUCTION

In 2022, Mental-health Clinic No. 4 named after P. B. Gannushkin, one of the oldest mental health institutions in Russia known as Preobrazhenskaya Hospital before the October Revolution, celebrated its 245 th anniversary. This represents the number of years since Catherine the Great signed a decree establishing the Moscow House of Invalids, where several dozen beds were set aside for the mentally ill. The document, issued in 1777 [ 1 ], laid the foundation not only for Moscow’s first specialized institution that could accommodate patients with mental disorders, but also, without exaggeration, for the entire field of Russian psychiatry.

The implementation of the Pinel reform in Russia, the introduction of the concept of “moral treatment”, the first scientific conferences and open clinical discussions, all these stages in the evolution of the basic principles and aspects of mental health care have found their reflection in the history of Preobrazhenskaya Hospital over the past 245 years. This is why Vasily Gilyarovsky poetically referred to the Hospital as “the cradle of Russian psychiatry” [ 2 ].

Each page in the history of Preobrazhenskaya Hospital is not only an impressive list of achievements and innovations, but also a unique gallery of distinguished names [ 3–7 ]. It served as a basis for the greatest medical luminaries of the time, such as V. F. Sabler, V. R. Butzke, V. A. Gilyarovsky, N. N. Bazhenov, A. V. Snezhnevsky, D. E. Melekhov, T. I. Yudin, S. G. Zhislin, and G. Y. Avrutsky, from which to make their scientific discoveries and validate them in practice; this was also the place where such luminaries of Russian psychiatry as S. S. Korsakov, A. U. Frese, E. K. Krasnushkin, P. E. Snesarev, A. S. Tiganov, and I. Y. Gurovich, and many others, began their medical careers.

It is a well-known and undisputed fact that Preobrazhenskaya Hospital was the first (and almost only one until the end of the 19 th century) psychiatric hospital to appear in Moscow. But historians and researchers in psychiatry have spent more than 100 years trying to dig up documents that could allow them to determine the exact year of its founding.

Starting in the second half of the 19 th century, the question has frustrated many eminent physicians of Preobrazhenskaya Hospital, including S. I. Steinberg [ 8 ], I. V. Konstantinovsky [ 9 ], N. N. Bazhenov [ 10 ], M. A. Dzhagarov [ 11 ], and A. B. Alexandrovsky [ 12 ]. Their work can now help us to form a fairly comprehensive view of how the State and society gradually, step by step, developed an awareness of what such an independent institution as a psychiatric hospital was all about. They painstakingly assembled scattered documents and facts to finally pinpoint with certainty the day it all began and the events that could be considered key milestones in the hospital’s history.

FROM FIRST MENTIONS TO 19th CENTURY REFORM

The first building that hosted Preobrazhenskaya Hospital, originally known as Moscow Dolgauz, opened its doors on June 15, 1808. In the 20 th century, it became routine to trace all anniversaries of the institution back to that date. But is that right? Could the mere fact that the hospital acquired its own building be considered the seminal event of the first inpatient psychiatric hospital in Moscow?

On July 13, 1777, Catherine the Great signed a decree mandating the opening of the House of Invalids in Moscow, with one of its “wards” dedicated to the care of the mentally ill. This is the date that, 100 years later, the doctors at Preobrazhenskaya Hospital referred to as the starting point in the history of their institution [ 8 ]. One of their main arguments was the fact that, on May 17, 1792, Catherine the Great issued a decree [ 1 ] establishing for the first time the position of Special Doctor at the mental health hospital. Hence, this decree confirms that this type of social institution for people with mental disorders already existed in 1792.

According to the decree signed by Catherine the Great, the primary role in the observation of patients was assigned to the warden, who was in charge not only of the guards (retired soldiers), but also of the doctor responsible for the professional supervision of patients. In reality, however, the staff physician had to juggle work at the mental health hospital with his duties in the nursing home, the hospice, and the almshouse. As a result, his attention was limited to those patients who had a chance of recovery [ 13 ].

When assessing the efforts of the first doctors at the mental health hospital, such as F. Raschke, then C. Pouliard, A. Blimmer, J. Karas (and all this happened long before the hospital had its own building), N. N. Bazhenov wrote in his book about Preobrazhenskaya Hospital: “It is important to note that even then there was a firm belief that the insane person was a patient, with all that such a conclusion entailed, including examination by a physician, admission to the mental health hospital for treatment (no matter how crude and primitive that treatment might have been), and finally discharge when the physician was satisfied that the goal of admission (a cure) had been achieved” [ 10 ].

Other doctors at Preobrazhenskaya Hospital also left their mark in the history of Russian psychiatry of the 19 th century. For example, Zinovy Ivanovich Kibalchich, Chief Doctor of the hospital in 1811–1828, left us a documented description of the prevailing realities in a mental hospital at the beginning of the 19 th century. In his 1821 article “Report on the House of the Insane in Moscow and the Methods of Treatment Used There” published in the Journal of the Imperial Philanthropic Society (issue No. 11, 1821), he not only described in detail Moscow Dolgauz and the methods of treatment used there, but he was also one of the first to point out the existence of mental disorders that are now referred to as “borderline conditions” [ 14 ].

Vasily Fedorovich Sabler, chief doctor of Preobrazhenskaya Hospital in 1828–1871, was a true “revolutionary” in the early history of psychiatric care in Russia (Figure 1).

Figure 1. Vasily Fedorovich Sabler (1797–1877) — chief doctor of Preobrazhenskaya Hospital in 1828–1871.

A brilliant clinician and talented scientist, V. F. Sabler provided evidence for the nosological independence of progressive paralysis, described its accompanying mental and neurological disorders, and developed humanistic principles of individual approach to patients. He was one of the first to hypothesize that some forms of illness can evolve into others, and that severe somatic illness accompanied by high body temperature (fever) can contribute to the cure of psychosis.

In the history of Preobrazhenskaya Hospital, V. F. Sabler played an equally prominent role as an outstanding manager. With a radical reform of the hospital’s management system, he ensured that the Chief Doctor would become the actual head of the institution. He supervised all areas of the hospital’s activities and prepared reports on the clinic that were published in the press (including in Europe).

This administrative reform marked a dramatic shift in attitudes toward the mentally ill. V. F. Sabler was greatly influenced by Philippe Pinel’s concept, which led him to completely overhaul the patient management system, finally replacing the chains used on violent patients with straitjackets and restraint chairs with straps.

It was the first instance when treatment was given priority over charity. This included the first patient histories (known as “case sheets”, see Figure S1 in the Supplementary) and prescription books. Depending on the course of their disease, patients were categorized as acute or chronic and treated using a different therapeutic approaches.

The new emphasis was not only on the medical observation of the patients, but also on their moral challenges and re-education. Patients were no longer seen as “dangerous madmen” but as “unreasonable children” who needed proper care and exercise. That is why occupational therapy was considered so important. According to the instruction “On the Exercises for the Sick People Placed at the Mental Health Hospital” published in 1834, each patient was assigned a strictly individual occupation. It was then that Preobrazhenskaya Hospital established a sewing shop, a tailor’s shop, a shoemaker’s shop, a dyer’s shop, a paint shop, a plasterer’s shop, and a vegetable garden. The women could also knit socks and embroider canvas.

V. F. Sabler initiated the effort to draft legislation on the mentally ill, which provided the impetus to address a long overdue problem in the patient examination process. For centuries, medical matters had been handled by officials with no expertise in diagnosing mental illness, and during the reign of Nicholas I, the authorities began committing patients to institutions “pending further orders” rather than “pending recovery”, as had always been the case. It was not until February 18, 1835, that a decree was issued establishing a procedure for forensic psychiatric examination that required convincing evidence of mental illness from credible medical experts.

In 1841, the so-called “special patient examination procedure” was introduced and implemented for the first time at Preobrazhenskaya Hospital. If in St. Petersburg the “lunatics” continued to be transported to the Provincial Board, in Moscow the “subjects” were now sent to Preobrazhenskaya Hospital for “expert examination” and placed in a ward specially purposed for such subjects in a section of St. Catherine’s Almshouse. Membership in the Patient Examination Committee was also established at that time and did not change until 1917. It included the hospital doctor, his/her assistant, the provincial marshal of the nobility, the chief of the district police or the head of the city. Patients were discharged only after a new examination, which could take place at the end of a two-year “observation” period, and this period could be shortened only by special decision of the Senate.

The hospital owes both its name, Preobrazhenskaya, and the confirmation of its new official status as a medical institution to V. F. Sabler. It was he who on May 31, 1838, petitioned Emperor Nicholas I to sign a decree renaming the Moscow Dolgauz as the Preobrazhenskaya Mental Hospital.

Assessing the changes that took place in the hospital during the first hundred years of its existence, historians of psychiatry are quite right to note that as early as the middle of the 19 th century Preobrazhenskaya Hospital had made the transition from a “charity house” to an in-patient psychiatric institution and had evolved into “the center of not only practical but also scientific psychiatry, which became the tradition of the Moscow psychiatric school, distinguishing it from the St. Petersburg psychiatric school” [ 7 ].

These changes, most of which were introduced during V. F. Sabler’s leadership, allowed Samuil Ivanovich Shteinberg (the hospital’s chief doctor in 1872–1877) to begin work on the institution’s first collection of scientific papers in the run-up to the centennial of Preobrazhenskaya Hospital in 1877. The preserved documents (“Preobrazhenskaya Hospital Office File on the Centennial Anniversary...”) show that the preparations for this anniversary had begun well in advance. As early as in February 1876, the chief physician, S. I. Shteinberg, wrote a letter to the trustees of Preobrazhenskaya Hospital with a detailed plan of the celebration. A circular letter was sent to the staff instructing S. S. Korsakov, N. I. Derzhavin, and V. R. Butzke to begin preparing articles identifying the major milestones in the history and development of the hospital (Figure S2 in the Supplementary).

In the 1870s and 1880s, the hospital attracted a cadre of brilliant and exceptionally gifted young physicians who introduced the most advanced methods of patient care into existing medical practice. First of all, this applies to Sergey Sergeyevich Korsakov, the founder of the nosological branch of psychiatry, the creator of the Moscow scientific school and the author of a classic course in psychiatry [ 4 , 5 ]. His name is closely connected with the history of the “therapeutic revolution” at Preobrazhenskaya Hospital. The energy and reputation of S. S. Korsakov helped to complete and irretrievably establish “moral treatment” at the hospital and the “open door” policy (from 1889), followed by out-of-hospital care, which radically changed the entire approach to patients.

20 th CENTURY: TRANSFORMATIONS AND ACHIEVEMENTS

Looking back, it is impossible to ignore one obvious fact: almost all the chief doctors of Preobrazhenskaya Hospital in the period before the Russian Revolution of 1917 acted as reformers of the entire Russian psychiatric care system. An honorable place in this gallery of illustrious figures is occupied by Nikolai Nikolaevich Bazhenov, chief doctor of the hospital in 1904–1917 (Figure 2).

Figure 2. Nikolai Nikolaevich Bazhenov (1857–1923) — chief doctor of the hospital in 1904–1917.

Preobrazhenskaya Hospital owes its vast expansion and the introduction of the then — revolutionary system of “advanced care” to this fascinating figure of Russian psychiatry, outstanding clinician, ingenious manager, and respected teacher.

In the new “advanced care” system, the uneducated wardens and nannies were replaced by young medical interns and sisters of mercy. The doors to the wards were unlocked, the bars on the windows were replaced with tempered glass, and the straitjackets were displayed as museum pieces [ 15–17 ]. To ensure that patients were under continuous and competent supervision, the interns were required to live in the hospital, rotate on round-the-clock duty, welcome new admissions, and complete patient histories and observation diaries. All direct patient care was assigned to mid-level medical staff. Thirty-two sisters of mercy washed and fed the patients, gave them baths, accompanied them on walks, etc. Each ward had a head nurse who distributed medications, served lunch and dinner, was in charge of laundry, and performed other household duties. Nannies and servants were assigned only janitorial duties. In the spirit of those times, the hospital widely applied a system of moral influence, a prototype of today’s psychosocial therapy that included respectful treatment and support of patients, their socialization, and involvement in various activities.

At the beginning of the 20 th century, with N. N. Bazhenov’s contribution, the hospital was transformed into a research and treatment institution, which became a center of advanced psychiatric knowledge. The scope of N. N. Bazhenov’s innovations is quite impressive: in just a few years the clinic, where at the turn of the century treatment of patients resembled more that in a prison than in a medical institution, was transformed into a modern hospital, on par with the best that Europe could offer [ 15–17 ].

Preobrazhenskaya Hospital was also the place where the Law on the Mentally Ill, a revolutionary act for its time, was proposed 80 years before the adoption of the Russian Federal Law on Psychiatric Care in 1992. The legal principles outlined by N. N. Bazhenov at the first congress of the Russian Union of Neuropathologists and Psychiatrists in 1911 are still relevant today:

“The following issues need to be brought to the forefront of mental health care and legislated:

a) The principle of extending state care to all mentally ill people in the country, and specifying the measures to implement this task and the central and local authorities responsible for these tasks.

b) Conditions for allowing treatment at home in the patient’s own family.

c) Sufficient safeguards must be in place to ensure that the principles of inviolability of the person and individual liberty can only be violated when the mental illness of the person in question makes this imperative” [ 18 ].

N. Bazhenov is also connected with the first commemoration of the foundation of the hospital celebrated in the 20 th century. In December 1909 the 100 th anniversary of the opening of the first building hosting Preobrazhenskaya Hospital on Matrosskaya Tishina Street was commemorated in gushing but solemn fashion, with the participation of the general public.

By that time the clinic had already received a plot of 11 dessiatins of land with the two and three-story buildings of the former Kotov factory (known as “Kotov’s Half”) (Figure 3).

Figure 3. Kotov factory. Photo of the beginning of the 20 th century.

The factory buildings were refurbished, and a dormitory for the staff was equipped with ventilation, plumbing, and even central heating, which allowed N. N. Bazhenov to write proudly that “now Preobrazhenskaya Hospital has such premises for the staff that few Russian or even Western European hospital institutions can boast of” [ 10 ].

However, the problem of overcrowding could be solved only by the construction of new buildings on Kotov’s Half, which required additional funds. So, N. N. Bazhenov decided to organize a gala evening for the city’s dignitaries on the former Kotov estate.

The day of the anniversary celebration was packed with events, including a solemn liturgy and breakfast for 300 guests; in the afternoon, there was a large concert by professional musicians from Moscow; a festive tea ceremony for patients, distribution of anniversary souvenirs, such as cups with the hospital insignia; and in the evening a banquet for 200 guests was held at the Kotov’s cottage located in a picturesque setting on the border of the Preobrazhenskaya and Sokolnicheskaya groves.

In addition to the concert, the highlight of the “cultural program” was the exhibition, for which N. N. Bazhenov selected not only everyday objects from psychiatric hospitals of different centuries (straitjacket, restraint chair, and “case sheets”), but also the creative works of patients (paintings and caricatures, wood and paper crafts, embroidery, and knitting). The models of Preobrazhenskaya Hospital and the Eiffel Tower were particularly popular with the public, because of their size and resemblance to the originals.

In addition to the gala dinner, the guests were treated to a theatrical performance, which included an act from the play “The Marriage of Krechinsky”, with a reference to Preobrazhenskaya Hospital, and, at the end of the evening, fireworks from an area near the buildings in Kotov’s Half — N. N. Bazhenov did not miss a single opportunity to draw the attention of the patrons and city authorities to the matter of financing the future construction. In 1910–1914, his work culminated in the successful completion of three new buildings and repairs to the old factory facilities on Kotov’s Half.

But let’s take a closer look at the year of this anniversary: Why was it celebrated in 1909? For a long time, 1809 was mistakenly considered the year in which the first specialized hospital for the mentally ill was opened. It was mentioned both in the Historical Essay on the Imperial St. Catherine’s Almshouse by V. Molnar [ 13 ] and in the Historical Essay on Preobrazhenskaya Hospital by I. V. Konstantinovsky [ 9 ]. For this reason, the anniversary was celebrated in 1909 and the following plaque was installed on the facade of the building: “1809–1909: To the centenary of the Preobrazhenskaya Mental Hospital, the first in Moscow designed specifically for psychiatric purposes”.

Only later, while working on the manuscript of his book “The Moscow Dolgauz” or “Essays on the History of Preobrazhenskaya Hospital” did N. N. Bazhenov study the documents in the hospital archives and found out that the new mental health hospital in Preobrazhenskoye was opened earlier, in June 1808, when 53 patients from the house of the former Secret Expedition were transferred to the building on Matrosskaya Tishina 1 [ 10 ].

By the beginning of the 20 th century, the records had cemented all three major milestones in the history of the establishment of Preobrazhenskaya Hospital: 1777, 1808, and 1838. One might think that this would have settled the question of the first dates for future celebrations once and for all.

However, the revolution of 1917 and the subsequent division of the hospitals sowed confusion into the “question of anniversaries”. In the spirit of Soviet traditions, Preobrazhenskaya Hospital was stripped of its former name in 1920 and became Moscow City Hospital No. 1. What’s more, in 1931, it was divided into two independent medical institutions with different goals and missions. The hospitals kept changing names, numbers, internal organizational structure, and overall scope of activities, and only relatively recently, in 2017, did the two hospitals return to their historical roots by merging under the name of P.B. Gannushkin Mental-health Clinic No. 4 (Figure 4).

Figure 4. The history of the renaming of the hospital in the 20 th century.

Over the next 100 years, Kotov’s half of Preobrazhenskaya Hospital acquired a different, but equally illustrious, name — Gannushkin Hospital. In the second half of the 20 th century, it maintained its position as an advanced center of research and practice, with many pioneering milestones in the history of Russian psychiatry:

– It developed the system of maintenance therapy, which is so important in preventing relapses.

– For the first time in the USSR, it began to use insulin shock therapy (under the direction of M. Y. Sereisky), as well as electroconvulsive therapy (with the contribution of G. A. Rotshtein).

– It also marked the beginning of the “psychopharmacological treatment era in psychiatry” with the trials of many medications that were subsequently integrated into mainstream clinical practice.

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

Reflecting on the title of this article, “Celebrating a Storied History”, one may note that in 2022 the institution historically known as Preobrazhenskaya Hospital will celebrate its anniversary for the first time in more than a century since that memorable evening organized by N. N. Bazhenov at the former Kotov estate. How does Gannushkin Hospital, the illustrious heir to the great traditions established by Preobrazhenskaya Hospital, look at the new generation in the year of its 245 th anniversary?

More recently, just 3–4 years ago, it got a facelift after extensive repair and construction work to restore the buildings dating back to the early 20 th century. Most importantly, the reorganization allowed for more streamlined psychiatric care, created a common information space, rationalized territorial localization, and brought patient treatment and routing patterns into a consolidated format.

With four specialized clinics in operation since 2020, the hospital now has several new structural units, including a clinic for affective and suicidal disorders, a clinic for borderline conditions, a clinic for first psychotic episodes, a clinic for pharmacoresistant conditions, and a clinic for mental disorders that are compounded by substance abuse. The Mental Health Counseling Center, opened in 2021, provides outpatient care for individuals suffering from various mental disorders including somatoform, stress-related, and neurotic disorders.

Today Gannushkin Hospital boasts a center for complex diagnostics, a clinical and diagnostic department with specialized clinics (such as dentistry, ophthalmology, gynecology, ENT, ultrasound), an anesthesiology and intensive care unit, a clinical and diagnostic laboratory, a psychological and psychotherapeutic center, a social and legal assistance center, as well as a physiotherapy department (including a transcranial magnetic stimulation room and xenon therapy room), pharmacy, X-ray rooms, and a physiotherapy room.

At the moment, the hospital has 9 outpatient branches known as Psychoneurological Dispensaries (PNDs), some of which have a history spanning more than 100 years. 2 Three Memory Clinics were founded on the basis of PND. These medical and rehabilitation units are designed to help elderly patients with early signs of dementia and mild cognitive decline.

The staff of the oldest psychiatric hospital in Moscow has carefully passed down to younger generations traditions that combine the utmost sense of humanity and the highest level of professionalism in helping patients with mental disorders. These traditions are the cornerstone that enables the team at Mental-health Clinic No. 4 named after P. B. Gannushkin to live its mission every day by providing personalized and comprehensive mental health care based on the principles of partnership and trust, with the aim of restoring and maintaining a high quality of life for its patients.

Authors’ contribution: All the authors made a significant contribution to the article.

Funding: The research was carried out without additional funding.

Conflict of interest: The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Supplementary data

Supplementary material related to this article can be found in the online version at doi: 10.17816/CP3704

1 The house on Myasnitskaya Street, formerly owned by the Secret Expedition, was transferred to the Public Charity Office in the early 19 th century. This is where the patients of the House of Invalids and the Madhouse were accommodated in 1801.

2 PND No. 8, for example, was founded in 1919 and made psychiatric history as the prototype of the emerging district-level psychiatric care in Soviet Russia.

Larisa A. Burygina

Cand. Sci (Med.), Director

Sergey A. Golubev

Dr. Sci (Med.) , Deputy Medical Director

Oksana V. Filipchenko

Cand. Arts, Head of Information and Analysis Department

• Digest of Laws of the Russian Empire. Vol.13. Laws on national welfare, public care and medicine. Saint Petersburg: Typography of the second division of the Emperor’s Chancellery; 1857. 996 p. Russian.
• Savenko US. [200 years of Preobrazhenskaya psychiatric hospital]. Nezavisimii psychiatricheskii journal. 2008;2:5–7. Russian.
• Aleksandrovsky UA. [History of Russian psychiatry. Vol. 3. Psychiatry in persons]. Moscow: GEOTAR-Media; 2013. 766 p. Russian.
• Museum of Psychiatric Hospital № 4 (Moscow). [Gilyarovskiy VA. Memoirs. — Transcript of conversation from 16.09.1944]. Russian.
• Cannabich UV. [History of psychiatry]. Moscow: CTR MGP VOS; 1994. Russian.
• Tzetlin SL. [Memoirs]. Transcript of conversation from 26.05.1944. Moscow: Museum of Psychiatric Hospital № 4. Russian.
• Yudin TI. [Essays on history of Russian psychiatry]. Moscow: Miedgiz; 1951. Russian.
• Central State Archive of Moscow (Moscow). 217. 1. 76. [On the 100th anniversary of the Preobrazhenskaya hospital which takes place 13th of July 1877]. 1876. Russian.
• Konstantinovsky IV. [Historical essay on Preobrazhenskaya hospital for insane people in Moscow]. Moscow: G. Lissner and A. Gieshiel’s typography; 1897. Russian.
• Bazhenov NN. [History of Moscow Dolgauz, now Moscow city Preobrazhenskaya hospital for insanes]. Moscow: Moscow city public government; 1909. Russian.
• Dzhagarov MA. [A brief historical essay]. In: Dzhagarov MA, editor. [Report of the 1st Moscow psychiatric hospital from 1938]. Мoscow: The 1st Moscow psychiatric hospital; 1939. Russian.
• Aleksandrovsky AB. [140 ages of Moscow psychiatric hospital (former Preobrazhenskaya hospital)]. Forthcoming 1950. Russian.
• Molnar V. [Historical essay of the Emperor Ekaterinian asylum and the institutions of Public Care Government (Prikaz) which had its origins inside the asylum’s walls]. Moscow: Moscow city typography; 1888. Russian.
• Kibalchich ZI. [Note on the Asylum for insane people in Moscow and on the methods of treatment used there]. Journal of the Emperor philanthropic society. 1821;(11). Russian.
• Gilyarovsky VA. [Personality and activity of N.N. Bazhenov (obituary)]. Journal of psychology. 1923;(3):5–14. Russian.
• Korkina MV. [Nikolai Nikolaievich Bazhenov: to the 150th anniversary]. [S.S. Korsakov Journal of Neurology and Psychiatry]. 2007;107(1):58–62. Russian.
• Voskresensky BA, Ostapietz EA. [150 year anniversary of Nikolai Nikolaevich Bazhenov]. Independent psychiatric journal. 2007;(4):8–10. Russian.
• Bazhenov NN. [Project of law on insane people and the explanatory note]. Moscow: City typography; 1911. Russian.

This website uses cookies

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

Mental Health Symposium: What EMS sees

Published 4:30 pm Tuesday, June 4, 2024

By Lance Gaither

May 2024 was Mental Health Awareness Month. Ephraim McDowell Health and the Rotary Club of Danville partnered to host a Mental Health Symposium on May 29 at the Boyle County Library to encourage discussion about mental health in the community.

At the symposium, Boyle County Emergency Medical Services Outreach Coordinator Terry Dunn and Community Behavioral Specialist Mark Smith presented on the mental health issues EMS sees in the county.

Boyle County EMS recently hired Mark Smith specifically to help local people struggling with mental health issues, which is a new position. EMS is working to form a crisis response team specialized in responding to mental health crises.

Email newsletter signup

“We don’t know what we are going to see once we get out there,” Smith said. “We are seeing a lot of substance abuse, mental health cases, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. We are getting everything lined up now and hope to start in July. The purpose of the crisis response team will be to meet individuals in the field, perform an assessment, de-escalate, and offer the resources we can.”

Dunn explained that Boyle County EMS expects to increase their caseload once the crisis response team begins operation. He provided the numbers that the EMS quick response team saw in 2023. They saw 357 clients, did 712 home visits, saw 179 substance use disorders, and 24 overdose deaths, with three being caused by alcohol.

“Some of these new drugs coming out we don’t even have tests for,” Dunn said. “Fentanyl is still at the forefront of overdoses. We are seeing it in basically anything, even in vape pens. Teenagers and even adults think they are safe because they are made in a factory, but they don’t know they have been altered.”

He explained that fake pills are particularly dangerous.

“Pill press machines can be bought online very easily,” Dunn said. “They are being manufactured in basements and bedrooms. They look identical to prescription medication, but the ingredients are different.”

2023 was the first year that Boyle County EMS began tracking mental health issues that they respond to.

“In 2023, we had 10 suicide fatalities; eight of those were from gunshot wounds. That is almost one a month. That is too high,” Dunn said. “I do have some good news. Looking at the data for where we are now in 2024 compared to 2023, we have had 36 substance abuse cases compared to 69 last year. They are down significantly. Overdoses, we had 39, and right now, we are at 23. Overdose deaths, we had 12 at this point; today, we have three. That is a dramatic difference.”

He said they have seen 71 mental health cases as of this point in the year compared to 43 in 2023.

“One of the biggest mental health issues we are seeing in the county is anxiety,” Dunn said. “We are seeing that we respond to a case of chest pain, but if you look at their vitals, they are fine. Anxiety can become physical, and it presents physical symptoms.”

Dunn explained that it is vital for EMS to have a trusting relationship with patients when they respond to mental health crisis calls.

“You need to have the compassion to do this job and build a repertoire with individuals who suffer from mental health conditions,” Dunn said. “They are not easily trusting, especially to those on the outside. Sometimes, it may take a few different visits. You must continue coming back and calling to check in.”

Dunn hopes that Boyle County EMS’s mental health programs can become a model of success for other communities to implement.

“We are hoping to set the trend nationwide,” Dunn said. “We hope to give this program to communities all over the state. We look forward to continuing to do the initiative. We are just getting started.”

Editor’s note: Mental Health Awareness Month was in May, and Ephraim McDowell Health sponsored a symposium on the topic. This is the first of three articles on what was discussed at the symposium.

Featured Local Savings

“The 39 Steps” opening at Pioneer Playhouse Friday

Ephraim McDowell Golf Scramble raises $63,000 for enhancing health care

Danville BOE recognizes students, staff, and retirees

Mercer wins first regional softball title

Upcoming events.

• Public Records
• Classifieds
• Small Business
• Subscriptions-old
• Submit a News Tip
• Submit a Photo
• Submit a Sports Story
• Letters to Editor
• © 2024, The Advocate-Messenger