Mental Health and why we should talk about it…
The modern society believes that mental health should be kept a secret, I ask why?
Mental health is a growing global pandemic which affects everybody without exception. HRH Prince Harry has opened up many times about his struggles with depression, and now travels the world promoting the need to talk about your struggles and not shy away and keep it locked away.
Why are sufferers frightened to speak openly about mental health?
It is still unclear as to why sufferers are frightened to talk of their conditions, however the main consensus is that sufferers are ashamed to admit they have mental health issues. It doesn’t help matters when the medical fraternity have conflicting ideas of what mental health constitutes.
Those who have suffered symptoms of depression and anxiety when visiting their general practitioners, will often be fobbed of with a course of anti-depressants and not much guidance to improve their mental well being.
Why opening up to your mental health can help your recovery.
When I first experienced the symptoms of depression, I knew what was happening and I refused point blank to consult with my doctor, as I knew that I would be placed on anti-depressants something I never wanted. On my way to work that morning I decided to send a text message to my sisters and a very close friend, who I had been decidedly rude to, and opened up about my struggles. I received three beautiful texts of support by return which allowed me to think positively for the first time in very long time.
That boost of positiveness gave me the courage to confront my depression by contacting a counsellor, and for the first time converse to a qualified ear who could make sense of what was going on in my mind and steer me in a new positive direction.
One of the main symptoms of my depression was social isolation and I needed not only to reconnect with my friends but to find new social outlets where I could meet new people and also enjoy my favourite outdoor pursuits. Once I succeeded on both counts, my persona changed and was noticed by both family and friends.
If I hadn’t of spoken out, who knows what my mental state would have manifested into, it doesn’t bear thinking about. That’s why it so important for sufferers of mental health in all its various forms, to be courageous and talk to family or friends about how you are feeling and share your concerns, and start the process of removing the burden of negativity and replacing it with a positive replacement.
Please do not think that there isn’t anybody to help you. There are many therapists who are only to glad to offer their services and help you change negativity to positiveness using various techniques.
Please do not let mental health be a stigma
Attention all mental health sufferers, please do not suffer in silence, talk openly about your experiences and show the global community that mental health should not be a condition to be ashamed of, instead be proud that you have come through the worst of it and make the world stand to attention and remove this undeserved stigma on mental health.
