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SubRosa Mental Services, LLC

Life Coaching & Emotional Support Animals

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Mental Health is Not the Opposite of Mental Illness

March 19, 2023 by Shiloh Martin, LPC-S, CCMHC

Mental Health

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.

Dr. Martin Seligman

In 1998, the President of the American Psychological Association, Dr. Martin Seligman argued that psychologists were overly focused on what was wrong with people and could therefore not identify what was right. If researchers and practitioners wanted to help people reach their full potential, he said, greater emphasis needed to be given to understanding how to build positive qualities.

Satisfaction in Life

Emotional wellbeing reflects how happy we feel and how satisfied we are with our life. Psychological wellbeing measures how well we are functioning psychologically and includes self-acceptance, personal growth, mastery over our environment and purpose in life. Social wellbeing reflects how well we are functioning socially and includes a sense of belonging to a community, making contributions to society and being accepting of human differences (Keyes, 2007).

Paradigm shifts: How to think about mental health

There are several conclusions from Keyes’s research that represented fundamental shifts in how mental health and mental illness were understood at the time.

Mental health is not the opposite of mental illness

The absence of mental illness does NOT imply the presence of mental health.

The absence of mental health does not imply the presence of mental illness.

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Case illustrations: Leroy and Kailee

Leroy:Leroy was diagnosed with anxiety a few years ago.  He experiences a few symptoms these days. He takes medication as prescribed, sees his therapist, and does other things to manage his condition.  Leroy enjoys his job at the local hardware store and is considered by other employees as a good capable employee.  He states his life has meaning, and has some positive, close relationships with friends and family. Leroy has a mental illness but also has a high level of mental health.

Kailee:
Kailee is a recent college graduate and a new hire at a local IT company. Although she has no mental illness, her mental health has been deteriorating over the last six months due to a bitter divorce and custody dispute. Kailee has noticed a substantial reduction in her performance over the last few weeks as her next court date is approaching. Kailee feels unhappy most days and is extremely dissatisfied with her life and relationships. She has a low level of mental health without having a mental illness.

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STIGMA

Historically, there has been a stigma with getting mental health care but not for getting help for physical problems.  This stigma prolonged the suffering of many people and has even cost lives.
Seeking out care for mental health concerns is a sign of strength and there is robust evidence that demonstrates that mental health care is effective.

988

988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (now known as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), and is active across the United States.
Anyone can call the Lifeline, whether they are thinking about suicide or not, and get emotional support. There is no minimum age, and you can receive support at any time, even on holidays. As long as you have a phone, you can call the number and talk to someone.

If you would like to visit with a professional in n ongoing fashion Contact us today.

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Links & Resources

  • American with Disabilities Act FAQ for Service Animals
  • Different Types of Psychiatric Service Dogs
  • Emotional Support Animals
  • What is the forensic evaluation I am doing?
  • Who Can and Cannot Do Forensic Evaluations for Emotional Support Animals and Psychiatric Service Dogs

Books

Written by Dr. Shiloh W. Martin, the book draws on his personal faith and professional expertise to provide guidance and encouragement for individuals struggling with mental health issues and their loved ones. The book explores various mental illnesses–such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder–and uses scriptures to provide comfort, hope, and practical advice.

Click for details

The Anxiety Solution: Regaining Control and Finding Peace,” extends a helping hand to guide you through the labyrinth of anxiety toward a sanctuary of tranquility.

In this empathetic and insightful guide, you’ll discover practical and proven techniques to not only alleviate anxiety but to empower yourself with lasting peace.

Click for details

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Please Note: Shiloh Martin, PhD provides all forensic evaluations. He is a licensed mental health provider in Alaska, Arizona, Hawaii, Missouri, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, and Georgia. Verification of licensure can be verified through each state's licensure board. Dr. Martin is a Nationally Board Certified Counselor registered WITH NBCC. #271022. NPI# 1255588901.

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