Historically, mental health has carried a large stigma across various cultures. But stigmatizing mental health only leads to negative consequences. When people feel shame for not knowing how to cope with their depression, anxiety or other conditions, they are less likely to get help. So, why the stigma?

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We believe the stigma against mental health comes not from a bad place, but a lack of proper understanding about mental health. For example, one study had 'normal' individuals (those without any symptoms) admitted to a mental health hospitalization center. These individuals reported falsified symptoms that led them to have a particular diagnosis. However, they were instructed to cease falsifying symptoms as soon as they were admitted by the study. Nevertheless, the medical records made by the unknowing specialists at the hospitals described the behaviors in exaggerated manners to fit the diagnosis. Furthermore, no one was identified as falsifying their symptoms by the staff! This alludes to the following. Labels and diagnoses regarding mental health can create a false sense of understanding of an individual. It's better to focus on how an individual can find peace, happiness and freedom, rather than focusing on a diagnosis.

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Almost every person, at one time or another, has struggled with their mental health. Struggling with mental health does not make someone 'weak', nor does it mean that there is anything 'wrong' with someone. It's common for everyone to struggle at different times and in different ways. By creating an open and accepting environment around mental health, we can benefit everyone. Additionally, we can gain understanding and compassion for the difficulties others face, so we can support them better, especially for those who struggle the most.

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What are proper ways to take care of one's mental health? Research shows that exercise, nutrition, meditation and social engagement play positive roles in protecting one's mental health. Sparked by Richard Davidson's initial brain imaging study of monks at the University of Wisconsin, a lot of research is showing the positive benefits of meditation on mental health. Having a community of supportive people is also very important. Humans, presumably by design, are social creatures. We all need some sort of socialization to stay balanced.

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Members of our team at Smart Hearts see mental health as a topic near and dear to us. We've been focused on contributing to mental health through various means, such as through the research in our work and volunteering at NAMI. We want to get you involved too.

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While Smart Hearts is primarily a dating project, we will also be hosting initiatives for mental health, such as charitable fundraisers and raising awareness of the different types of mental health and how to support family members and friends with different afflictions. Let's make a positive and accepting culture around mental health!