Report
Mental Wellness & Alternative Healing Methods
Mental health issues have been increasing dramatically and could possibly cost the world approximately USD 16 trillion by 2030. However, there are certain measures that can be taken that aim to help people whilst also reducing this cost. Such measures include, amongst others, wellness retreats, especially the increasing numbers of which that have started developing mental health programs directed at relieving individuals of stress and anxiety.
This latest report from Horwath HTL Health & Wellness, sets out to explore the determinants of mental wellness in society, highlighting some of the many alternative healing methods available and addressing what this could mean for the hospitality industry.
Understanding Mental Wellness
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines mental health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. Mental health extends beyond the absence of disorders, encompassing the ability to manage stress, contribute to the community, and enjoy life.
Determinants of Mental Health
The Global Wellness Institute (GWI) categorizes mental health determinants into:
Individual Attributes: Genetic factors and personality traits.
Social and Economic Circumstances: Social changes, exclusion, work stress, discrimination, unhealthy lifestyle, physical ill-health, human rights violations, and social inequality.
Environmental Factors: Varying significantly through an individual’s life, impacting mental health at different stages.
Common Causes of Stress and Depression
Financial Pressure: 62% worry about job loss, retirement funds, and medical expenses.
Work Life: 61% report stress from coworker tensions, bosses, and workloads.
Family Life: Stress from family issues like divorce, separation, or bereavement.
Mental Health in Society
Globally, over 300 million people suffer from depression, and about 260 million have anxiety disorders. Mental health issues are prevalent, yet stigmatized in many cultures. Efforts by WHO and the UN aim to increase awareness and provide necessary care.
Treatment Methods
Traditional Healing:
- Antidepressants: Balance brain chemicals but come with side effects like nausea, weight gain, and increased suicide risk. Long-term use can lead to dependency and severe withdrawal symptoms.
Alternative Healing:
- Hypnosis: Effective for anxiety and stress, similar to guided meditation.
- Ayahuasca: A hallucinogenic brew from South America showing promise in treating depression, with significant effects on reducing depression severity.
- Medical Marijuana: Contains THC and CBD, effective for anxiety and depression. CBD is non-psychoactive and has multiple medical benefits.
- Psilocybin Mushrooms: Known for treating anxiety, depression, and addiction, with effects lasting up to six months after a single dose.
Integrating Mental Wellness into Hospitality
Wellness Retreats: Offering programs focused on mental well-being, such as health checks, meal plans, and mind-body sessions, without synthetic medication.
Nutrition and Exercise: Essential for mental health, with diets rich in anti-depressant nutrients and regular exercise reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Mental wellness requires a comprehensive approach, integrating traditional and alternative treatments, improved diet, exercise, and awareness programs. The hospitality industry has the opportunity to expand mental wellness offerings, providing holistic and accessible solutions for mental health issues.
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For detailed charts, graphs, and further analysis, download the full report here