I wrote a blog about the high levels of mental illness and suicide in Utah. And when I published the article, one individual suggested I had missed the boat. This individual thought that the reason for higher levels of mental illness was obvious. Mormonism. While I wondered about the influence of the predominant faith on the numbers...I doubted that it meant a causal connection. My conclusion? The 'why' might be less important than the response. But the article I just read was very interesting. Here is the link: http://bit.ly/1grvi7r. As you can see, this article presents the possibility that the impact of the high elevation of Utah on the human brain might have something to do with it.
I find that idea fascinating. There are still so many mysteries in how mental illness develops. Why does one area have higher numbers than another? Is it something to do with religion or culture? Is it connected to poverty? Is it the way people are brought up? Or is it simply a biochemical mystery? Given that we are starting to recognize the fact that scientists are making some progress regarding the biochemical nature of mental illness, this theory makes some sense.
This is where it gets exciting. The more we understand, the more effectively the illness can be treated. When we know the how, we can work more effectively on developing medications and supportive therapy. And once we really get how the disease develops, the more we can battle the stigma. Which is likely to make it easier for people to get treatment. Where does this all start? In learning more about the human brain and how it works. That is why I see hope in this article. How about you?
I find that idea fascinating. There are still so many mysteries in how mental illness develops. Why does one area have higher numbers than another? Is it something to do with religion or culture? Is it connected to poverty? Is it the way people are brought up? Or is it simply a biochemical mystery? Given that we are starting to recognize the fact that scientists are making some progress regarding the biochemical nature of mental illness, this theory makes some sense.
This is where it gets exciting. The more we understand, the more effectively the illness can be treated. When we know the how, we can work more effectively on developing medications and supportive therapy. And once we really get how the disease develops, the more we can battle the stigma. Which is likely to make it easier for people to get treatment. Where does this all start? In learning more about the human brain and how it works. That is why I see hope in this article. How about you?
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