Sarah Smadja

Psychiatrist Sarah Smadja explains that feeling bad occasionally is normal and shouldn't be pathologized as mental illness.

“On a le droit d'aller mal certains jours, on ne va pas tout pathologiser”

Mental health in public discourse

Mental health has become a major public topic since 2026, but stigma and misconceptions persist.

Pressure to be well

Society increasingly pressures people to be happy, but this can lead to anxiety and mental health struggles.

Consultation trends

More people, especially young people, are seeking mental health consultations due to current uncertainties.

Temporary distress

Temporary distress is common and does not always require professional mental health intervention.

Current challenges

Current challenges include political uncertainty, economic difficulties, environmental concerns, and the stress of artificial intelligence.

Youth mental health

Young people are increasingly seeking mental health support due to concerns about their future.

The happiness paradox

People feel they have enough to be happy but often struggle with mental health due to internal pressures.

Social media impact

Social media and algorithms can trap people in negative thought cycles, worsening mental health.

Cognitive behavioral therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy helps people recognize and change negative thought patterns.

Self-care and performance

Self-care practices like meditation and exercise are often seen as performance rather than pleasure.

Normal fluctuations

It's normal to have bad days and good days; this doesn't require pathologizing.

Mental health stigma

Mental health stigma leads to people seeking help unnecessarily, overwhelming healthcare services.

Real mental health needs

People with serious mental health conditions need professional help, but not everyone does.

Mental health and work

People with mental health conditions can work and have fulfilling lives without being isolated.

When to seek help

Consultation is needed if symptoms last more than 15 days or if daily functioning is significantly impaired.