Beyond The Silence

By Mary Akpokiere

YOUR MIND MATTERS

I remember the first day I heard voices in my head. It wasn't a sudden boom, or what you’d think was loud, but a whisper, a soft murmur that grew louder each day. At first, I dismissed it as stress, a side effect of a demanding course work and a somewhat chaotic life. But as the voices persisted, invading my thoughts and disrupting my peace, I realized something was deeply wrong.

I wasn't alone. Millions of people around the world struggle with mental health issues, each with their unique experiences and challenges. From anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, these conditions can be debilitating, affecting every aspect of a person's life.

Understanding the Struggle

Mental health struggles are often misunderstood and stigmatized. People may feel ashamed or embarrassed to seek help, fearing judgment and rejection. This stigma can prevent individuals from getting the support they need, leading to further isolation and worsening symptoms.

It's important to remember that mental illness is not a sign of weakness or a character flaw. It's a medical condition that requires treatment, just like any other illness. By breaking down the stigma and promoting open conversations about mental health, we can create a more compassionate and supportive society.

Common Mental Health Struggles

• Anxiety: Excessive worry and fear, often accompanied by physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, sweating, and difficulty breathing.
• Depression: Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness, affecting mood, thoughts, and behaviors.
• Bipolar Disorder: A mood disorder characterized by extreme mood swings, from manic highs to depressive lows.
• Schizophrenia: A severe mental disorder that affects a person's thinking, perception, and behavior.
• Eating Disorders: Distorted body image and unhealthy eating habits, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder.
• Substance Abuse: Excessive use of alcohol or drugs, leading to addiction and various health problems

Tips for Managing Mental Health Struggles

1. Seek Professional Help: Don't hesitate to consult a mental health professional, such as a therapist or psychiatrist. They can provide diagnosis, medication, and therapy to help you manage your symptoms.
2. Practice Self-Care: Prioritize activities that promote your well-being, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep, and relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.
3. Build a Support System: Connect with loved ones, friends, or support groups who can offer understanding, encouragement, and practical assistance. This really helped me during that phase.
4. Challenge Negative Thoughts: Recognize and challenge negative thought patterns that contribute to your mental health struggles. Replace them with positive affirmations and realistic thinking. Instead of “Nobody wants me here. I’m not good enough”, say, “I’m good enough and that’s all that matters”. Affirm yourself daily and watch how you get even if it is a tad bit better, you’re getting somewhere!
5. Manage Stress: Develop effective stress management techniques, such as time management, mindfulness, and seeking social support.
6. Limit Screen Time: Excessive screen time can exacerbate mental health symptoms. Set boundaries and prioritize face-to-face interactions.
7. Engage in Hobbies: Pursue activities you enjoy, whether it's painting, reading, gardening, or playing a musical instrument.
8. Avoid Self-Medication: Refrain from using alcohol or drugs to cope with mental health struggles. These substances can worsen symptoms and lead to addiction.

My Journey to Recovery

My journey to recovery has been a long and challenging one. I've experienced setbacks and relapses, but I've also learned valuable lessons along the way. I've learned the importance of seeking professional help, practicing self-care, building a strong support system, and challenging negative thoughts.

I've also learned that recovery is a process. It requires ongoing effort and commitment. But with the right support and strategies, it's possible to manage mental health struggles and live a fulfilling life.

Remember, you're not alone. There are people who care about you and want to support you. Don't be afraid to reach out and connect with others who understand what you're going through.

Together, we can create a world where mental health is valued, understood, and supported.

Mary Akpokiere

Human Anatomy & Cell Biology Graduate