The most important person in your life must be yourself and your mental health.

On the face of it, this may seem a strange statement, even a selfish statement. However, there can be no denying its validity.

One of the most important things to remember in life is that you cannot look after others if you are not fit and healthy yourself. When you think of it like this, you are truly the most important person in your life.

The Hidden illness

In my opinion, of all the ailments that can afflict the human race, mental health is one of the most dangerous. It is dangerous because people don’t always realise when it strikes. They don’t realise how bad it can be. Most importantly, however, people can be unprepared to talk about it or seek help.

Stigma

Without doubt, there remains a stigma that robustly attaches itself to the condition. Why?

Despite a real focus on mental health over the last few years, I believe that it will take many more years for the Stigma to release itself. This is just human nature.

Asking for help

Like many conditions, seeking help is so desperately important. Making that step however does seem like climbing a mountain. If you take nothing away from this blog, please remember this –

‘Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness’

There are people out there that will help. Be it family, friends or medical professionals. Whoever you chose to speak to, be open and honest. Tell them how you feel. Open up. That sounds like such a tall order, but it is so very important.

Setting expectations

Don’t expect miracles. It will take time, but you will get there. You will be supported by the medical profession, friends and family.

When you recover, you will be a better person. Lessons will have been learnt that will equip you to better cope with life. I liken it to a path with a gate. You know when you get to the gate to turn around and come back. Never go through it again. It’s called strength.

Experience

You may have guessed that I have experienced mental health issues. You would be right. I really feel stronger for the experience.

Just Remember

• Asking for help is a strength and not a weakness
• You may not know it, but you are surrounded by people who care
• You will come through it a stronger and better person.

Resources

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If you should need help – try Mind.org.uk

Photo by Nik Shuliahin on Unsplash