With this week being all about mental health awareness, Manns Cookies wanted to provide a healthy attitude towards supporting the community & giving some history to you all on Mental Health Awareness.
Firstly, I want to highlight that Manns Cookies considers mental health very important. I have a dear friend who is very close to my heart, who does some outstanding work.
Jami - Here for Mental Health - Deborah Daniel does outstanding work in this field, it would be great if you could click the link and make a small donation - mental health is a huge issue in our generation and our Country is seeing the economy lean out and things are hard. Supporting ourselves with healthy food (shall we take the opportunity here, to include Manns Healthy Cookies, exercise, vitamins is all great - but don't underestimate the importance of a healthy mind too.
I hope you don’t mind me reaching out about Jami, a vital charity enhancing and saving the lives of people impacted by mental illness in the Jewish community.
The history of Mental Health
Mental health has been a subject of concern and exploration throughout human history. The understanding and treatment of mental health issues have evolved significantly over time.
Here's a brief overview of mental health in different historical periods:
Ancient World: Mental health in ancient civilisations varied. In Mesopotamia, mental illnesses were often attributed to supernatural causes and treated with rituals and incantations.
Ancient Egyptian writings suggest a more holistic approach, emphasizing the connection between the mind and body. Ancient Greeks, particularly figures like Hippocrates and Galen, believed in a biological basis for mental illness and proposed treatments based on the balance of bodily humors.
Middle Ages: mental health was often associated with religious beliefs. Mental illnesses were sometimes seen as signs of demonic possession or divine punishment. Treatments included exorcism, prayer, and pilgrimages. Some monastic institutions provided care for people with mental health conditions.
Renaissance and Enlightenment: The Renaissance brought a shift towards a more scientific understanding of mental health. However, asylums emerged during the 16th and 17th centuries as places of confinement for the mentally ill. Treatments were often harsh and included restraints, bloodletting, and other forms of physical punishment.
19th Century: The 19th century witnessed significant changes in mental health care. Philippe Pinel and William Tuke advocated for more humane treatment of the mentally ill and pioneered moral treatment approaches that focused on kindness, dignity, and therapeutic environments. However, asylums continued to face overcrowding and inadequate conditions.
20th Century: The early 20th century saw the rise of psychoanalysis, led by figures like Sigmund Freud. It emphasized the unconscious mind and the role of early life experiences in mental health. Psychotropic medications were also introduced in the mid-20th century, revolutionizing the treatment of conditions like schizophrenia and depression.
Contemporary Approaches: In recent decades, mental health has gained increasing recognition as a critical component of overall well-being. Efforts have been made to reduce stigma, improve access to mental health care, and promote a more holistic approach to mental well-being. Psychotherapy, medication, and other evidence-based treatments are widely available, alongside alternative and complementary therapies.
It's important to note that societal attitudes, understanding, and treatment of mental health have varied across cultures and regions throughout history. The above overview provides a general perspective but does not capture the nuances and complexities of mental health throughout different historical periods.
Best Cookie Wishes,
Amanda