If you in crisis or mentally unwell while you are reading this article, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. You can also text CONNECT to Kids Help Phone at 686868, or if you prefer talking to someone instead of texting, you can call them at 1-800-668-6868. There’s also CSPS (The Canadian Suicide Prevention Services) that you can text at 45645. If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.
Mental Health Day an opportunity to eliminate mental illness stigma
According to the World Health Organization, October 10th was World Mental Health Day. That day was a great time to eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness and to share daily struggles, as well as how people are able to overcome them on a daily basis. It is also a great day for mental health supporters, such as therapists, crisis line operators, guidance counsellors, healthcare workers, and anyone else who supports those with mental health struggles, to receive some acknowledgement for their important work.
Importance of seeking help
As some people might know all too well, there is still a lot of stigma associated with having a mental illness. Some parents aren’t always supportive of certain types of recovery (via meditation, therapy, and medication), and instead, sometimes we turn to unhealthy alternatives, such as smoking, drinking alcohol, or drugs. Unfortunately, substance abuse for mental health problems can actually exasperate the symptoms, especially if substances are used daily. It can also create either a physical addiction or dependency or psychological addiction.
Additionally, not receiving help for a mental health issue can spiral us into further problems. As previously stated, there is the potential of alcoholism and drug addiction, but there is also the fact that addictions can become so bad that it results in job loss, causing even more mental health problems and social stigmatization and social isolation.
Important to share your experiences with others
Do not be afraid to share your experiences about your mental health, and enlighten others about it. You may find that you have a lot more in common with someone than you previously expected. It is not a sign of weakness to seek help and support during difficult times– connect with hotlines, therapists, or family and friends in order to help keep your mental health in good shape, and survive, day in and day out.
