This week, in the UK at least, it’s mental health awareness week. There’s so many weeks and months in the year that are dedicated to different causes, that they just blur into one and pass me by usually.
Why is this important?
This one is different as I obviously have a personal connection to it. Which has got me thinking about how much has changed in how we, as a society, approach the topic of mental health. Back in the dark days of the 1980’s when I was growing up, it wasn’t discussed openly. There was a shame, or taboo, about discussing the topic. We all had the mad aunt, or crazy uncle that no-one really discussed, and were left to suffer alone, or avoided as people didn’t know what to say or do.
Thankfully, most parts of British society have moved on. Talking about your health is no-longer taboo. Being able to now say ‘I’m struggling’ is great – no, that’s not enough of a word to describe it. Maybe, awesome is the word I’m looking for. I do know that not everyone gets the help they need, or feels they can talk about how they feel, but we’re getting there – slowly. That’s why the Mental Health Foundations’ week is so valuable.
The dark old days.
I think, as a teenager in the ‘80’s, I’d been able to open up about my problems and get the help I needed, I wouldn’t have half the issues I have now. But I grew up in a community where we laughed at the ‘crazies’ as we called them. Told them to ‘man-up’ or stop being a ‘wuss’ – which was slang for weak.
Deep down, I knew it was wrong, but followed as that just what you did in those days.
I’m so glad that we are moving away from that as a society; that people can openly say that they are mentally unwell.
Are we talking too much?
Now, I know there’s some debate that we are going to far the other way, that we are medicalising everyday worries and turning people into ‘snowflakes’. That’s a possibility and something I’ve personally witnessed. Unfortunately, it’s how some people are, and we shouldn’t allow the fear of fakers to stop the progress we’re making in making. Heck, I don’t care how many fakers there are as long as those that need support, get it.
So, during Mental Health Awareness Week, or any week for that matter. If you find yourself in a dark place, or your anxiety is trying to rip your kidney’s out, or you just can’t cope, reach out. There’s no shame, no stigma. You’re not weak, or faulty, you’re just human. Talk to a friend, neighbour or professional. Anyone that can help.
Remember…
You are not alone.
Where can you get help?
In the UK, MIND, CALM or the NHS are excellent sources of help. Or, if you’re feeling suicidal, the Samaritans. I’m sure there’s others around the world for those outside of the UK, I just don’t know what they are.
#MentalHealthAwarenessWeek