Depression, anxiety, and emotional distress is extremely common among people of all ages and backgrounds. Yet, many people are hesitant to reveal their sadness and other emotional struggles for fear of being ridiculed, seen as being weak or otherwise misunderstood in some way. This prevents them from getting the help that they need to feel better and function fully. Revealing mental health issues and having people show support can help turn it around, removing the stigma. This can help make a big difference in people’s lives. Read on to find out more.
Did you know…?
1 in 5 people have mental or emotional health issues
Most of these issues can be treated by counseling, medication or both
Untreated mental or emotional health issues are linked to an increased risk of chronic health problems, suicide, relationship difficulties and more
Do you keep silent about feeling depressed, anxious or upset?
There is no shame in having mental or emotional distress or reaching out for help. The real shame is the stigma, misunderstanding, insensitivity and other reactions people have about it.
Speak up. Tell others about your story and how you’re feeling. It takes courage, but it’s the first step to getting the help you need to feel better.
Has someone revealed a mental or emotional health issue to you?
Ignoring that person, or telling them to snap out of it, just calm down, that things will be better in the morning, or that therapy is for weak people, can make matters worse for someone who is struggling.
Show support. It’s not always easy to find the right words, but the key is to acknowledge them without judgment. Say something like, “It must be hard for you,” and “I’m here to listen if you want to talk about how you feel.”
Talking about it is the first step to getting help. Speak up. Show support. Together, we can shatter stigma.
Original source: http://blog.healthadvocate.com/2020/02/mental-health-awareness-lets-talk/