What would you consider a natural response to living during troubling times? Is the response to hold on to the hope that better days are soon to follow? This year challenged everyone to question the future as people across the globe struggle to live harmoniously, as US legislators find it difficult to act in their elected duty to govern, as newly enacted laws in many states repress reproductive rights and the rights of vulnerable groups, as inequities in healthcare continue to be amplified rather than mitigated, as there appears to be no end to devastating natural disasters, and as basic regard for the lives of all human beings is more and more diminished. Life experiences play an influential role in shaping individual and communal beliefs, values, and behaviors. The end of the calendar year is often a time for reflection, or serious thought and consideration, as we prepare for a new year. Despair is not an option.

Life and mental health

The life experiences of individuals across the lifespan from infants to older adults affect their overall health and well-being. The World Health Organization (WHO) definition of health is well known: “Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” The WHO further notes that mental health is an integral part of our general health and well-being and a basic human right.1 No one can thrive or contribute to society without overall health. Life experiences have impact, and the possibility of feeling despair is real for far too many people. Any health condition has the ability to change an individual's life for better or worse, temporarily or permanently, including mental illness. The spectrum of mental health disorders spans from acute, self-limiting conditions that more than likely will respond to established interventions to severe, persistent mental illness that will always challenge the person and provider alike. Think about the spirit of children and adults who exist purely in the midst of war and violence. Remember that persons who have survived physical, emotional, and/or sexual trauma in their lives might view others and their world differently. Consider the effects of disparate practices by institutions and systems rooted in structural racism on the psyche of marginalized populations who must seek services there. Acknowledging that mental health exists and initiating appropriate interventions are key. The WHO report calls for a transformation in mental health care: advance public health, protect human rights, and support development of mental health care systems, emphasizing the recommendation to integrate mental or behavioral health in primary care practice to increase access to services. The WHO's goals are often lofty, but change begins in small increments and in defined spaces by dedicated individuals.

Special issue

The world's mental health crisis is expansive, and we are not equipped to address all the contributing and resulting social issues or all the challenges or diagnoses that affect an individual's mental well-being. However, this month, at the close of another year, we spotlight some of the mental health matters that NPs encounter in practice in a special issue on the topic. I often remind students who are obsessed with mastering the scientific aspect to not lose sight of the psycho-social-emotional aspects of a patient's life, which can have the greatest impact on their well-being. The physical and mental are inseparable. Let this special issue serve as a reminder to consider overall well-being in practice.

Reflection and hope

Despite the turmoil we see in the world, there is hope. “Not just the absence of war,” Dr. Maya Angelou wrote. “But, true Peace.” I invite you to read the poem written by Dr. Angelou and listen to her recitation on the occasion of the White House tree-lighting ceremony in 2005.2 Her words are timeless and still very relevant today. As you reflect on the past year and anticipate the new year, remember that even though you are one, you can make a difference.

Jamesetta A. Newland, PhD, FNP-BC, FAANP, DPNAP, FAAN

Editor-in-Chief [email protected]

REFERENCES 1. World Mental Health Report: Transforming Mental Health For All. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2022. www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240049338.