Hey Hey! Today is a day that brings people heartache, tough emotions, and provoking thoughts. Though this does not fall into the category of fashion or entrainment it is a big deal! Mental health is something that impacts everyone in one way or another. There are many stigmas around what mental illness is and who it impacts. I want to shed some light on what mental health truly is, breaking stigmas and some resources for those who might be dealing with some hard things.
Firstly, what is mental illness? Now Google defines it as a health condition that changes the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors of a person. This is a correct definition to an extent. People do struggle with chemical imbalances in their brains that can shift thinking and behavior in their lives. These imbalances can cause depression, anxiety, or other disorders. Mental illness can also form from traumatic experiences. Some of these are death of a loved one, abuse, bullying, or SA. A good way to see mental disorders is as the same as arthritis. Arthritis does not have a true cure but some medications and treatments help keep the pain manageable. The same goes for mental illness there is no true cure, but through medication, therapy, and caring for one's self the flares ups are not as frequent nor as intense. Some symptoms of mental illness are feeling sad, and unmotivated, extreme mood changes, and trouble trying to cope.
Throughout the last couple of years, positive light has been shed on those with mental disorders. There sadly is still a lot of stigmas around people who struggle with mental illness. So, let's look at some stigmas and why they are wrong!
- "People with mental health issues are dangerous" turns into a person thinking "I am dangerous and unsafe" which creates isolation for that person. This is not true, people with mental illness are actively seeking a safe community to simply share their feelings with, with no intention of hurting others.
- "They are just attention seekers" - this is so hurtful for those who are looking for a sliver of hope or security in a community. Even if a person is seeking attention wouldn't it be safer to help them versus having the situation turn dire?
- "They need to just be in the sun more, and get off their phone". Immediately giving someone with mental health issues solutions that you believe would work can feel unvalidating. Just being there to be understanding and caring towards that person does wonders for their health.
- "They are simply weak!". This is so untrue!! The bravest thing someone can do is share that they are struggling with their mental health. Being vulnerable and asking for help is so strong, and I am personally so proud!
It is so easy to look down on people with mental illness but today and every day after I hope you start looking at them knowing they are strong, and brave individuals. One of my dear friends has gone through so many traumatic and hard situations in her life and yet she still wakes up each day and fights so hard. Many people have tried to put these types of stigmas on her but having an uplifting community and the right resources she has started to truly find joy in her daily life.
Let's look at some resources for those who are struggling with mental health. The American Psychological Association helps people find psychiatrists and therapists near them. There are multiple hotlines that you can call. Many churches have programs set up to help provide a safe place for those in crisis. For information on mental health, there is the Active Mind's foundation, the National Institute for Mental Health and so many more. All of these resources will be linked at the bottom of this so please take a look!!
Mental health is something to be taken seriously. For those struggling with it, please find help that fits for you. It might be cliche to say but you are truly not alone. There are people who love you and want to help care for you and all you have to do is take that first step! For those whose loved ones are struggling, I know it is hard for you too. Be patient with them, and give them grace for what they are struggling with. Validating them and giving them your ear means more than you can know! Each and every person has much value to them no matter what they might be struggling with!! <3 Lou Lou
Definitions
Depression: persistent sadness and a lack of interest or pleasure in previously rewarding or enjoyable activities
Anxiety: a feeling of unease, such as worry or fear, that can be mild or severe.
Bi-Polar: a mental illness that causes unusual shifts in a person's mood, energy, activity levels, and concentration
Schizophrenia: a mental disorder characterized by disruptions in thought processes, perceptions, emotional responsiveness, and social interactions
PTSD: develops when a person has experienced or witnessed a scary, shocking, terrifying, or dangerous event
Eating Disorders: an abnormal pattern of eating behavior, accompanied by marked worries about food or body size
Resources!!
Helps in finding providers for people who struggle with mental health or addiction
Hotline that helps people in a crisis or just needing help
Gives resources and basic information about mental health
Interactive tools to help with depression and anxiety
Suicide Prevention Resource Center
Self-help website for those with anxiety
Resources for those with eating disorders
Help Lines
1-888-35-PSYCH (77924)
1-800-273-TALK (8255)
1-866-488-7386
Support Groups
Depression and BiPolar Support Alliance
Eating Disorders Anonymous
Recovery International
コメント