Managing Mental Health
It’s no secret to those around me that I have mental health struggles which has affected me for years. I remember my earliest depression at age 11. Unfortunately I had many years in and out of hospitals as well as many attempts as an adolescent and young adult. But as I’ve gotten older, received the correct diagnosis, and learned more about mental health, I’ve been able to really work on my coping skills. Even though I still struggle with always coping in a healthy way (setbacks are part of recovery), I am much better today than I was even a year ago.
There is no shame in having a mental illness; many people do. I’ve certainly struggled with that thought, and my dislike for taking medications. It does not say anything about you as an individual, professional, or as a family member. What it does say is that you have a lifelong disease that is hidden. If you were diagnosed with Diabetes and needed insulin for the rest of your life, are you going to see yourself as a bad person for it? I hope not. These are the exact same things.
The number one reason people give me for not taking medications is that the ones they’ve tried so far have not worked; followed by the second one being they are scared to take them and not be themselves. Feelings are valid no matter who has them or what they are; but it does not mean that the thoughts behind it is always rational or responsible. While there are some people who can follow an all natural lifestyle and handle their mental illness in that way, it is not the best way for everyone, although I encourage everyone to have a healthy diet, exercise routine, water intake, and sleep hygiene and schedule. The things we do for our physical health very much affects our mental health. However if you know those things alone are not enough stop dragging your feet on the help you need. See a therapist and psychiatrist, take the medications, and learn new coping skills. These are the first things to do when trying to get a handle on your mental health.
When you think about life, what is it you want to be doing and feeling? If you do not want to feel depressed and anxious all the time, then what do you need to make it so you are not? Can you do it only by changing your habits and what you consume? Or if you’re honest with yourself do you need more professional help? At the end of the day you are the only one inside of your head; what do you want to be swirling around in there?
I will not pretend it’s easy because it’s not. However, it’s doable and important. Be brave for yourself! The strong are not afraid to get help where they lack what they need.