Mental health: why the stigma?
Psychological labels have long been used as insults, whether playful jesting or as degrading slander. The situation has improved immensely over recent decades but mental health stigma still hinders the acceptance and understanding of psychological symptoms. The reality is that almost everyone experiences periods of depression, anxiety or other symptoms of psychological illness in their lifetime. In the USA, it is estimated that 1 in 4 persons over the age of 18 suffers from diagnosable mental disorders per year. In recent times the prevalence of anxiety and depression has become alarmingly high. Psychological conditions have been noted to be the next epidemic, with an estimated 1 in 7 people worldwide suffering from 1 or more mental or substance use disorders.?
Getting Help
You need to be realistic. It is very easy to put your feelings and emotions on the back burner, neglecting your mental health. Use the systems that you have in place, and remember that you can talk to the people around you. Take time off when necessary, saving your leave for a longer holiday may prove to be less healthy for your wellbeing than taking the time off when you need it most. Talk to your leaders at work, explain how you are feeling and be honest. The truth can set you free, and being honest with a co-worker gives you the ease of mind and brings others into the fold. If you feel that you are in need of more professional help, do not hesitate to make an appointment with a registered professional such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. Even if you feel that you do not need help, seeing a registered professional can help enable your responses to psychological stress and symptoms. Remember that you can do a host of activities that improve your overall wellbeing and act as an intervention for illnesses. If you are not already physically active or practising mindfulness, you should start.
It is okay to need help
Never let the fear of stigma stop or delay you from seeking help. Stigmas are born out of misinformation and misinterpretation; do your best to inform yourself and others about your condition. Be aware of any negative self-talk — the more you judge yourself and say negative things about yourself, the more likely you are to believe them. Do not believe every opinion you hear; rather seek professional help when you are ready. Psychologists and psychiatrists spend years specialising in their fields in order to provide the best possible assistance.
You are not alone
Connect with others and share your feelings and experiences. Your loved ones and those with who you are close will undoubtedly want the best for you and provide a level of support. Join a support group where you can share and learn from others who have similar experiences. Revealing your feelings and experiences can expose you to more support, understanding and connections.
Do not let your illness define who you are
What you say and how you say it has power. Speak more passively when referring to your experiences or condition. Try changes like saying ‘I have depression’ instead of saying ‘I am depressed.’ Do not let naive commentary bring you down; you do not have to agree with them nor do you have to listen to them.
Support others in need?
Be mindful of those around you who might also be suffering from a mental health challenge. Talk to them openly and honestly and give them a chance to discuss their experiences and feelings. You don’t have to be a trained professional to give someone the gift of being heard.
Stigma can show up in obvious and subtle ways. We all need to recognise it so that we can take steps to limit its impact. If you need help with your mental health, please seek help. Assist anyone who needs your help. Mental health is not something to be stigmatised, but to be normalised.
Staff Writer | Rory Ware
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