COVID + Mental Health Awareness
I missed Mental Health Awareness Month. This year especially, it’s more important than ever to stay on top of it and keep talking about mental health. I want to discuss the stigmas around mental illness. Why is it so hard to talk about? Why is it so difficult to reach out when things get really bad?
The current events have been affecting everyone in different ways whether it be depression, anxiety, cabin fever, etc. We’re cooped up inside, and some people are developing a fear of leaving their house… ever. Some are becoming extra germaphobic. Some are experiencing anxiety for the first time in their lives, and don’t know how to process it or what’s going on. Extroverts that live alone have become depressed without company. We all know someone struggling through this new normal and compounded with underlying mental health issues, your friends are NOT OK. None of us are.
Mental Health has been such a taboo topic for so long, it’s still hard for people to talk about it. There’s always some “easy fix” that should just make it all better. That is simply not the case. Having mental health issues or a mental illness, is just that — an illness. It is an invisible sickness that affects every aspect of life. It tends to come on strong with no mercy and has no regard for anything in its path. Yes, there are some natural remedies proven to help, but there is no “cure-all”. And you don’t know what someone is going through even if you know their diagnosis.
So how do we make it easier to talk about? …Honestly? From my experience, more people just have to be wiling to listen and not necessarily “fix” the person with the illness. It becomes so much easier for someone to put themself out there if they actually feel heard and understood. Their feelings should be validated and they should be able to feel like they have support. Actively listen and respond. Some people aren’t even looking for advice, they just need to vent. It doesn’t hurt to ask a professional (insurance permitting) on how to help them.
The person with the illness has to reach out to those around them — family, friends, a professional. Often the person with the illness avoids asking for help and can easily feel like a burden. I want you all to know that you are not a burden or annoyance. Anyone that cares about you would never think that and would want you to reach out when things get tough. Keep telling yourself that you aren’t a burden, that you’re supposed to reach out for help. You matter to so many people and you should matter to yourself. As cheesy as it sounds, YOU MATTER. Things will always get better.
Therapy isn’t as frowned upon these days and can really help. But, the person with the mental illness has to be willing to open up AND do the work. Therapists can’t help if they aren’t given anything to work with. Psychiatrists are a powerful resource as well. The main difference between the two is that psychiatrists can prescribe medication. Also, don’t be afraid to shop around for the right fit in a therapist/psychiatrist either. It’s normal not to mesh with the first therapist seen. Sometimes it takes time to find the right match and that’s ok. The person’s insurance can also help to find one that is covered. I’ve sat on the phone with a representative before as they searched the database for me. I will get into my personal experience with mental health issues another time.
Overall, especially in a time like this, I think it’s important to be there for each other. Be kind to each other. We’re all going through it. Leaning on each other and talking to each other also puts things into perspective for everyone involved. We all have to try for ourselves and each other. We’ll get through this! Mahalo!
