Although Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in the US since 1949, mental health is something that we should be aware of all months of the year.
Our mental health plays a huge roll in our lives and the lives of those around us. Maybe you've heard the quote,
"People don't fake their depression- more often they fake being okay when they're really struggling."
Fortunately, the topic of mental health has evolved over the years and is much more relevant in the world we live in today. Back in the day, it was very hush hush if you were taking medications, or needed to see a therapist. These days people everywhere are speaking up and out about mental health. The resources have doubled and tripled due to the increased authenticity regarding mental health. There are apps, hotlines, therapist, life coaches, counsellors, medications, physical activities, meditation, and more. Even platforms like Netflix, Spotify, Apple Music, and more have aired shows, and podcasts about mental health, and meditation.
It is important to consider all options, and speak to someone who is knowledgeable about mental wellness to correctly inform you the routes that may be best for you.
Reality is, everyone in one season of their life or another, their mental health is not going to be 100%. It is unrealistic to believe that your mental conditions are perfect for all of your life. There are a lot of things that effect your mental health such as your diet and the foods you eat (as your gut is your "second brain") the people you surround yourself with, your job, your financial situations, your family life, the things you do in your free time, and the list goes on.
The world we live in today, people are dealing with and working through so much, that it's just a good idea to have someone that you can bounce your thoughts off of, that is not a family member or friend, an unbiased opinion. Someone to ask you questions that help and lead you to make healthier decisions that are good for you and your life, rather than just telling you what to do.
Being able to admit that you are not feeling mentally well is not a weakness, it is a strength.
It is so important to be real with yourself and others about how you are feeling, and use the resources available to you. There is nothing to be ashamed of, we are all imperfect humans that have our own struggles, and seasons of life that feel a little more heavy than others.
One thing to remember is you are NOT alone, and there are people that are always in your corner, even people you don't know yet, that will not judge you, and that want to help you learn how to walk through life.
Not only are there so many resources for you to help you with your own mental health, there are tons of resources to learn about mental health in general.
If you or someone you know is going through a season of their life that they are struggling mentally, please don't hesitate to act from a place of love for yourself and others by sharing this blog, or sharing different resources. Every day that goes by that you don't treat your mental health, forms and molds your tomorrow. You don't have let it take over your mind and body. Be an activist for yourself, you are worth it.
What is holding you back from reaching out about your mental health or letting someone else know that there are options for their own?
We at WTIFF are not health care providers, but we would be more than happy to share our experiences and solutions we've used to help with our mental health. Please feel free to reach out. <3
Your are so loved and so worth it,
Mak