Mental Health in a VUCA World
We live in a VUCA world with the leading indicators of "Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous" in situations and relationships all around us. What was safe and dependable 18 months ago have taken new twists and bumps as each of us tries to find a new normal.
The CDC* cited new statistics last month that indicated just over 40% of the U.S. population have indicated they are carrying post-Covid heavy loads of stress, anxiety, and depression (up from only 17% in 2019). VUCA realities have nudged up sleeplessness and worry for a significant chunk of the population.
So, pay attention to your self-talk. If you keep sensing a darkness in your outlook or a lack of control over your emotional life, it may be time to seek out the assistance of a mental health professional. If things are making you "no fun anymore", a therapy office is a safe place to admit it.
In times past, you might not have wanted to have anyone see your pick-up truck parked in a therapy office lot. Today, most therapists see a sizable portion of their clients via secure "tele-therapy" connections. The only one who will know you're there is the friendly and helpful face on your screen. The stigma previously associated with therapy is going away.
Finally, if you are picking up signals from a co-worker or family member that cause you to be concerned for them, the best thing you can do is to be a good listener, a good encourager, and a good ally as he or she calls for an appointment.