Globalization of Values and Mental Health


Globalization is a term in current usage but one whose meaning remains controversial and diverse even among those who invoke it. 
Within this context of difficulty in precisely defining globalization; AnthonyMcGrew states that globalization constitutes a multiplicity of linkages and interconnect that transcend the nation-states (and by implication the societies) which make up the modern world system. It defines a process through which events, decisions and activities in one part of the world can come to have a significant consequence for individuals and communities in quite distant parts of the globe.
There are at least four dimensions of globalization that are crucial in understanding the change represented by this phenomenon namely: Globalization as a historical epoch argues that the phenomenon can be defined in a period of history rather than a theoretical framework. It can also be viewed as a confluence of an economic phenomenon which includes liberalization and deregulation of markets, privatization of assets, the retreat of state functions (particularly welfare ones) and integration of capital markets.  Globalization is also viewed as the dominance or hegemony of American values which finds expression in the notion of diffusion and convergence through assimilation of their political and economic institutions in the public sector and as  ‘best business practices” which in effect represents the universalization of the American values. Lastly, globalization can be viewed as a technological and social revolution in terms of a decisive shift away from industrial capitalism by inducing a   revolution of technological advance that ultimately renders the globe a single market.
The above definitions clearly show that globalization definitely dislocates the existing patterns of social interactions and socialization processes with attendant mental health consequences. This effect becomes very profound in countries that are in the process of transition through participation in the global economy inducing without basic developmental capabilities and appropriate policy framework. 
According to a Royal College of Psychiatry document; Globalization is viewed as a complex, large scale social phenomenon that presents mental health services with both challenges and opportunities. This relates to the increased cultural diversity of service users and service providers; the effect of migration on mental health and the implementation of international protocols in relation to training, policy and education. In the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on 11 September 2001 in the USA, the relationship between large scale social change and mental health has also focused attention on the concept of social capital. There is an explicit return to the holistic principles of the bio-psycho-social model of psychiatric practice and positive engagement with globalization resulting in the development of effective, evidence-based models of care appropriate to the changing needs of patients.
Globalization could actually widen the gap between the poor and the rich with profound socio-economic consequences.  Market deregulation favors the dominant, strong economies of the west and fails to offer low and middle-income countries an opportunity to strengthen their infrastructures sufficiently enough to compete in the global economy. Socioeconomic and other inequalities are significantly related to mental health. Psychiatric disorders are much more common in people from lower socioeconomic groups with a bidirectional pattern with health affecting the socioeconomic status and socioeconomic factors affecting health in a vicious cycle. The globalization as a social process can impact social capital negatively with reduced community cohesion, weakened social support and increased psychosocial morbidity. It is likely that a disproportionate part of this burden would be borne by women, who, in addition to performing the majority of domestic and childcare tasks may find themselves seeking a relatively low paid labor. This scenario will definitely increase the incidence of depression and anxiety disorders in this cohort.
Globalization has also led to a significant increase in migration with migrants showing higher rates of both physical and mental illness. Immigrants have significantly higher rates of suicidal thoughts and deliberate self-harm. Many asylum seekers experience human rights abuse, torture or displacement especially when harsh economic situations at home have forced them to migrate. Underfunding, workforce shortages and a range of other factors combine to place severe limits on mental health care delivery in poorer countries worldwide. Some of the factors include low diagnosis rates, sociocultural stigmas regarding mental illness, associated human right abuses; inadequate workforce training, focus on institutional rather community-based care,  lack of suitable and adaptive policy frameworks and a lack of political commitment to prioritizing mental health care. The issue of globalization also has impacted negatively on our cultural values with the adoption of strange sociocultural practices that may have a profound effect on both physical and mental health.  The emergence of new patterns in the prevalence of non-communicable diseases is traceable to the impact of globalization on the lifestyle of the people with strong mental health significance. Our world has become a global village hence diseases have become global commodities. 
Dr. Adeoye Oyewole,
adeoyewole2000@yahoo.com
+234 803 490 5808 (WhatsApp Only)


Comments

  1. This is a global issue to be addressed. The use of electroshock or ECT has proved brain injuries by the CA courts around devices used. No FDA testing for safety or effectiveness. Dr. Bennet Omalu famous for findings of CTE in the NFL is stating similar outcomes expected given repeated brain injuries from electrical trauma in this. Current national device suit taking place in US. 5 billion in revenues from this practice in the US alone. Cover ups and harm for decades taking place at leading facilities. Used for many mental health conditions now and no longer a last resort. Patients are showing damages on testing. Increase in suicide after use of ECT in patients can find little help to address damages currently. This is also being used on our children and Veterans. Electrical trauma can evolve years out to include onset of ALS and ongoing cardiac issues as well. Given the situation of Covid more patients will be at risk for being offered this so inform yourselves. See ectjustice site and life after ECT site. If you have had ECT please contact the DK law group in CA to see if you qualify for joining the device suit. Please share this information with others in particular on public social as major media protecting providers and facilities.

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