Mental Health
Mental health is a state of emotional, psychological and social well-being. How we handle stress, relate to others and make choices are all determined by our mental health. Being mentally healthy is characterized by being able to realize your own potential, cope with normal life stressors, work productively and contribute to your community.
Experiencing mental health problems can affect your thinking, mood and behavior. Biological factors, life experiences and family history can all contribute. Mental illness is a common problem and help is available no matter your situation. People with mental health problems can get better and many recover completely.
Mental health stigma causes people to feel ashamed if they have a mental illness, even though this is completely out of their control. Stigma prevents people from seeking the help they need. It is an unacceptable addition to the pain of mental illness and we all must raise our voices against it.
How to Fight Against Mental Health Stigma:
Talk openly and honestly about your mental health or mental illness. Even if you help just one person, it is worth it.
Educate yourself and others on the struggles of mental illness. If you hear a rude remark about mental illness, use this as a learning opportunity, gently intervene and express how this only adds to the stigma.
Be conscious of language. Refrain from using mental health conditions as adjectives.
Encourage equality between physical and mental illness. Mental illness is a disease, like diabetes, heart disease and cancer.
Show compassion for those with mental illness. Model compassion for others by connecting with people, talking about their lives and showing affection and humanity to those who are suffering.
Choose empowerment over shame. Live an empowered life. Own your story and refuse to allow others to dictate how you view yourself or how you feel.
Be honest about treatment. Do not be ashamed of saying that you see a therapist or a psychiatrist. There is no judgment in saying that you have an appointment with your primary care doctor; why should mental health appointments be any different?
Let the media know when they’re stigmatizing. If you watch a television program with negative comments, storylines or characters with mental illness, write the broadcasting company and the program itself. Respond to negative social media posts by telling your story.
Don’t harbor self-stigma. Do not hide in shame. Be productive and volunteer. Take your treatment seriously. Show others that you can live a meaningful life even while battling a mental illness.
