Every year, since 1949, Mental Health Awareness has been celebrated in the month of May.
Even though it has been celebrated every year I've been alive, this is the first year that I knew about it. Mental health can be a tricky topic due to the stigma that has been placed on it, but this article will be completely stigma-free and hopefully give courage to someone out there to ask for the help they need or show that people who struggle with their mental health should not be categorized negatively compared to others.
Our brain has a way of playing tricks on us sometimes. At times it makes us feel like we are on top of the world and nothing can touch us, and at others, it convinces you that everyone in your life has been lying about the way they feel about you and that you're really just alone. I've gone through both instances within hours of one another. For anyone reading I just want you to know that doesn't make you crazy, it makes you human.
As a world, we need to become more accepting of the fact that everyone's brain works differently.
If people are sensitive don't tell them that they take things too personally or that they're overreacting. It's not a nice thing to do. We also need to acknowledge that just because someone may have a mental illness does not mean they may be much different than you. Obviously, it is always nice to be considerate of the fact that everyone has different life circumstances, but to treat people as if they are below you due to their illness is wrong.
We also have to stray away from the thought that depression and anxiety are the only two mental illnesses. Unfortunately, people deal with bipolar disorder, personality disorders, schizophrenia, etc. and as a society, we have to be more accepting to people who struggle with those illnesses and validate the way that they feel.
For anyone that has a mental illness, diagnosed or undiagnosed, I stand by you wholeheartedly. Don't ever let anyone make you feel crazy or make you feel as though your feelings are unwarranted because you don't need permission to feel the way you do. But also if you need help of any kind please take the steps to ask for it. Whether it is taking medication, going to therapy, calling a suicide hotline, or just talking with a friend, asking for help can really make all the difference.
Life is a constantly evolving cycle. Nothing stays the same forever and bad days will eventually turn into good ones. Your life is worth living and if you ever feel otherwise please call 1-800-273-8255 .You matter.