Five Things You Didn’t Know About Mental Health

November 6, 2025

•

5 min read

Mental health difficulties may affect anybody, regardless of age, background, or economic status. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global burden of mental health conditions continues to grow, influenced by demographic and lifestyle changes.

Here are five lesser-known facts about mental health and well-being that you may not have been aware of before exploring a Mental Health Course online.

1. Not All Mental Health Issues Are Permanent or Severe

Mental health exists on a continuum — from optimal well-being to severe illness. Research indicates that most mental health disorders are mild to moderate and short-term. The World Health Organization reports that over 300 million people suffer from depression worldwide, while anxiety disorders affect nearly 4% of the global population.

At Hader Institute of Education, our Certificate IV in Mental Health Online course helps learners understand this continuum and how to support others effectively.

2. Diet Plays a Big Role in Mental Health

Emerging evidence shows that diet not only influences physical health but also mental well-being. Studies suggest that a Mediterranean diet can reduce depression risk by up to 33% (BMC Medicine), while a traditional Japanese Washoku diet may protect against cognitive decline (Nutrients Journal).

The gut-brain connection — known as the gut–brain axis — plays a vital role too. An imbalance in gut bacteria is linked with increased depressive symptoms (Harvard Health Publishing).

You can explore this topic further in our Diploma of Mental Health, where nutrition and holistic care are covered in detail.

3. Sleep Deprivation Triggers Depression

Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining good mental health. Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that adults who sleep less than 7 hours per night are more likely to experience symptoms of depression.
Inadequate sleep also increases risks for chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.

In our Mental Health Short Courses, we teach students how to recognise the behavioural and physiological links between sleep and emotional regulation.

4. Burnout Has Real Health Consequences

Workplace burnout has become increasingly recognised as a legitimate health issue. In 2020, the World Health Organization officially classified burnout as an occupational phenomenon caused by chronic workplace stress.

Burnout can lead to fatigue, decreased motivation, and even physical symptoms. It also correlates with mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression (The Lancet).

Through Hader Institute’s Community Services and Youth Work programs, students gain tools to identify and prevent burnout in themselves and others.

5. Social Media Hurts Mental Health

While social media connects people, excessive use can contribute to loneliness and anxiety. A study by the University of Pennsylvania found that limiting social media use to 30 minutes a day significantly reduces loneliness and depression.

Young people under 25 are particularly at risk of cyberbullying, social isolation, and disengagement due to high social media exposure. Understanding these digital mental health impacts is an important focus of our Diploma of Youth Work.

Final Thoughts

Mental health awareness is more crucial than ever. By investing in education, you can help yourself and others recognise, manage, and prevent mental health challenges.

At Hader Institute of Education, we empower learners with practical skills and professional pathways that make a lasting impact in the community. Explore our Mental Health Courses today to start your journey toward meaningful change.