The Importance of Mental Health and Where to Seek Help

There is increasing talk about the importance of mental health — and rightly so. For decades, taking care of the mind was seen as a luxury or a sign of weakness. Today, it is finally understood that without psychological well-being, there is no complete health.

Mental health influences how we deal with stress, make decisions, interact with others, and live our daily lives. It is present in every thought, gesture, and moment of silence. And the best part? It can (and should) be taken care of, just like the heart, lungs, or skin.

The mind needs medical attention too

Feeling exhausted without an apparent reason, losing interest in things that once brought joy, poor sleep, or constant anxiety — all these can be signs that something isn’t right. According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 8 people worldwide lives with a mental health condition. In Portugal, the numbers are quite similar.

Disorders such as anxiety, depression, burnout, or sleep issues have been on the rise, especially after the pandemic. Recognizing early signs can help prevent more serious situations and promote a more balanced and meaningful life.

Where to find psychological help?

Knowing where to find psychological help is just as important as realizing you need it. And the good news is: there are many accessible and safe options, both public and private:

• Health centers and family health units: increasingly integrated with psychological support.
• Public hospitals and specialized mental health services: offering psychiatric and psychological consultations.
• Social or solidarity-based psychological consultations: available through charities, local associations, and institutions like Misericórdias Saúde.
• Online psychological support: increasingly recognized and effective.
• Emotional support hotlines such as SNS 24 or SOS Voz Amiga, free and anonymous.

The key is taking the first step. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness — it’s an act of courage and self-care.

Prevention: the foundation of everything

Taking care of mental health isn’t just about seeking help when there’s a problem. It also means adopting healthy habits: getting enough sleep, maintaining social support networks, exercising, carving out personal time, and learning to say “no” when needed.

At Misericórdias Saúde, we believe mental health is a priority for everyone — no exceptions, no taboos. We advocate for a human, inclusive, and preventive approach, with accessible psychological support whenever necessary.

Conclusion

We remind you: if something doesn’t feel right, talk to someone. Speak with your family doctor, a health professional, or a support hotline. Because the importance of mental health lies precisely in not ignoring it.

References

- World Health Organization (2022). World Mental Health Report: Transforming mental health for all

- Portuguese Directorate-General of Health (DGS). National Mental Health Plan

- SOS Voz Amiga: [www.sosvozamiga.org](http://www.sosvozamiga.org/)

- SNS 24: 808 24 24 24