For The First Part Of Your Final Project, The Critical Analy ✓ Solved
For the first part of your final project, the critical analysis
For the first part of your final project, the critical analysis portfolio, you will select an issue or event in wellness and critically analyze it through the four general education lenses: history, humanities, natural and applied sciences, and social sciences. By viewing the issue/event through these lenses, you will gain insight into how the interconnected nature of wellness affects society, as well as both your own individual framework of perception and the choices, attitudes, and behaviors of others in the world around you.
Paper For Above Instructions
The interconnected nature of wellness profoundly affects individuals and societies. For the purpose of this analysis, I will explore the wellness issue of mental health awareness through the lenses of history, humanities, natural and applied sciences, and social sciences. Mental health, once stigmatized, has progressively gained acknowledgment as a vital aspect of overall well-being. By analyzing this issue through various lenses, we can appreciate the complexity of mental health and its implications for societal attitudes and behaviors.
Historical Lens
Historically, mental health has often been misunderstood, leading to significant stigma. In ancient cultures, mental health issues were often attributed to supernatural forces or moral failings (Foucault, 2006). The establishment of asylums during the 18th and 19th centuries marked a pivotal moment in the history of mental health treatment. Asylum hospitals often became places of confinement rather than healing, reflecting society's fear of mental illness (Scull, 2015). The deinstitutionalization movement of the 20th century marked a shift in this perception, moving towards community-based care and emphasizing the importance of mental health (Torrey, 2012). This historical context illustrates how societal attitudes have evolved, paving the way for current mental health awareness initiatives.
Humanities Lens
The humanities provide a comprehensive understanding of mental health through literature, art, and philosophy. Artistic expressions frequently depict themes of mental illness, facilitating dialogues surrounding this complex issue. For instance, Virginia Woolf's writings, such as "The Hours," poignantly address the struggles of mental health and contribute to the societal understanding of the condition (Woolf, 1925). The use of storytelling in literature and film can humanize experiences of mental illness, fostering empathy among audiences. Additionally, contemporary movements, such as mental health advocacy in social media, enhance awareness and challenge stigmas that persist in society. Through these mediums, the humanities contribute significantly to shaping perceptions and encouraging acceptance towards mental health issues.
Natural and Applied Sciences Lens
The natural and applied sciences provide a vital framework for understanding the biological and psychological aspects of mental health. Research in neuroscience has illuminated the intricate workings of the brain and the physiological factors that contribute to mental health disorders (Kandel et al., 2013). For instance, studies have demonstrated how neurotransmitter imbalances can lead to conditions such as depression and anxiety (Nestler et al., 2002). Mental health interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and pharmacotherapy, are grounded in empirical evidence from scientific research. This lens highlights the importance of integrating scientific understanding with practical applications to improve mental health care outcomes.
Social Sciences Lens
The social sciences are essential in examining the sociocultural factors influencing mental health perceptions and the effectiveness of public health initiatives. Social determinants of health, including socioeconomic status, culture, and community support, play a crucial role in mental health outcomes (Marmot, 2005). Research has shown that marginalized communities often face higher barriers to accessing mental health care, underscoring the need for targeted interventions and policies (Williams & Mohammed, 2009). Furthermore, anti-stigma campaigns, such as the "Time to Change" initiative in the UK, illustrate the application of social science research to promote mental health awareness and reduce discrimination (Hinshaw, 2007). By understanding the social context of mental health, we can develop more effective strategies to address this issue.
Conclusion
Analyzing mental health awareness through historical, humanities, natural and applied sciences, and social sciences lenses offers a multidimensional understanding of the issue. It underscores the interconnected nature of wellness and highlights the importance of recognizing mental health as a fundamental aspect of overall well-being. As societal attitudes continue to evolve, ongoing efforts are needed to address the stigma surrounding mental health and promote comprehensive care. Ultimately, fostering a culture of awareness and acceptance is pivotal to improving mental health outcomes for individuals and communities alike.
References
- Foucault, M. (2006). Madness and Civilization: A History of Insanity in the Age of Reason. Routledge.
- Hinshaw, S. P. (2007). The Mark of Shame: Stigma of Mental Illness and an Agenda for Change. Oxford University Press.
- Kandel, E. R., Schwartz, J. H., & Jessell, T. M. (2013). Principles of Neural Science. McGraw-Hill.
- Marmot, M. (2005). Social Determinants of Health Inequalities. The Lancet.
- Nestler, E. J., Barrot, M., Caron, M. G., et al. (2002). Neurobiology of Depression. Neuron.
- Scull, A. (2015). The Most Solitary of Afflictions: Madness and Society in Britain, 1700-1900. Yale University Press.
- Torrey, E. F. (2012). The Insanity Offense: How America’s Failure to Treat the Seriously Mentally Ill Endangers Its Citizens. W. W. Norton & Company.
- Williams, D. R., & Mohammed, S. A. (2009). Discrimination and Mental Health: A Review and Conceptual Framework. Social Science & Medicine.
- Woolf, V. (1925). Mrs. Dalloway. Hogarth Press.