Health and Wellbeing

New perspectives on mental health

New perspectives on mental health
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The global COVID-19 health crisis has brought the topic of mental health to the forefront of public discourse. Since then, the rapid evolution of economic, environmental, and geopolitical conditions, coupled with the advent of groundbreaking technologies like artificial intelligence, all in the context of a fast-paced lifestyle, has made mental health a major concern for many Belgians.

In order to better understand the current situation and explore how to best address this issue, we had the privilege of speaking with renowned psychiatrist Dr. Caroline Depuydt.* She sheds light on current trends in mental health and the paths to improving psychological wellbeing.

A closer look at the current situation

The first thing to keep in mind according to Dr. Depuydt is that temporary discomfort can evolve into a mental disorder depending on its intensity, its impact on daily life, its duration, and the combination of symptoms. Recent statistics from INAMI (2021) speak volumes: burnout is at the top of the list among increasing mental health issues, with a 46% rise in cases of burnout and long-term depression. People aged 50 to 64 remain the most affected, but the most significant growth is among self-employed individuals aged 25 to 39, with a 20% increase in 2021 and a staggering 151% increase over the last five years.

The causes of mental health problems

Mental health problems are multifactorial, resulting from the interaction of numerous genetic, biological, developmental, psychological, social, lifestyle-related, and stress-related factors. Dr. Depuydt points out that triggering factors vary, ranging from illness and accidents to the loss of a loved one, work-related stress, and social isolation. Sometimes, a minor event can awaken an old trauma, serving as the final straw in a perpetually tense context.

Proposed solutions

It is important to reach out to one's support network when facing mental health problems, Dr. Depuydt advises. Friends and family can play a crucial role by offering valuable support and listening. Additionally, the primary care physician serves as the initial point of contact for seeking help and guidance towards specialists if needed. Mental health professionals such as psychologists and psychiatrists are essential for proper care. Finally, in case of emergencies, the helpline number 107 is available for immediate assistance.

New approaches

Psycho-corporeal approaches are currently seeing a remarkable increase in popularity. They combine psychotherapy with mindfulness meditation and physical activities such as yoga or pilates. These therapies recognize the importance of balancing the body and mind, including aspects like nutrition and sleep in maintaining mental wellbeing.

Stacy Jacques, Wellbeing Manager at Aspria Avenue Louise, explains, "Our members are becoming increasingly aware of their psychological fitness. They diversify their physical activities with meditation, yoga, or pilates and take the time to enjoy spa facilities dedicated to recovery and relaxation. Our teams have knowledge in nutrition, and our members often seek advice, aware of the impact of their diet on their overall health."

Dr. Depuydt also confirms the positive impact of regular physical activity on mental health - it aids with concentration, reduce stress and anxiety, improve one’s mood, and promote better sleep quality. She also recommends self-care after exertion, allowing for moments of rest and recovery.

However, her most resounding message is highlighting the concept of self-compassion: "There's no need to overdo it to do well. We're all doing our best, and that's already a lot!" It is essential to identify what supports your own wellbeing, whether that’s intensive training, a specific sport or meditation, and to do it regularly, without guilt, while leaving aside what you don’t find enjoyable.

Stacy reinforces this message: "Engaging in any physical activity should be primarily motivated by self-care.  Any sport is, in a way, a journey towards a balance between physical and mental wellbeing. Pleasure helps sustain it over time and achieves tangible results on both fronts."

Prevention as a new focus

A recent study conducted by the University of South Australia and published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine demonstrates that physical activity leads to a 43% reduction in symptoms related to mental health problems, particularly depression, anxiety, and psychological distress. Sporting activity is a key element in prevention and can also reduce the need for medication.

This message was also highlighted by Brian Morris, CEO & founder of the Aspria group, when he was invited to the OECD Health Forum recently to discuss this topic of prevention: "Health as a key for economic resilience." In fact, this vision has informed the creation and ongoing development of all Aspria clubs as comprehensive partners in helping members live well, both physically and mentally.

Activities offered in the clubs, such as tennis, swimming, fitness, and group classes, contribute to a healthy and balanced life. Wellness facilities, including pools, spas, and institutes, allow members to relax and rejuvenate. Each club also offers co-working options, allowing for an effective combination of sports and professional life while avoiding isolation at home. While children’s programmes available at the clubs ease daily family logistics and enable parents to take care of themselves in parallel.

Whether to prevent or help manage issues, solutions proposed by experts such as Dr. Caroline Depuydt and our very own Aspria teams aim to support mental wellbeing in an increasingly demanding world.

* Dr. Caroline Depuydt is a psychiatrist and Deputy Medical Director at Espsylon (formerly La Ramée and Fond’Roy). She is also the author of two books on the subject : "Bien dans ma tête grâce aux neurosciences" (Well in My Head Thanks to Neuroscience) and "J’arrête d’en faire trop !" (I Stop Overdoing It!)