Mental Health Issues: Ending the Stigma

Mental Health Issues: Ending the Stigma

(iMindCoach)

According to the Mental Health Foundation, 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health issue at some point during their lives. However many choose to keep their condition to themselves rather than openly discuss it with friends and family. But why?

Sadly, in the past, there has been a stigma attached to mental health issues. From offensive terms implying those who are suffering are ‘crazy’ to cruel claims that the conditions are just ‘attention seeking’, there have been a number of ways those ignorant to the effects of mental health issues have criticised them.

Now, however, things are changing. In fact, a number of movements have been set up to eliminate the stigma related to mental health issues, such as the #TimeToTalk campaign set up by time-to-change.org.uk.

These campaigns aim to express the fact mental health issues are just as ‘real’ as physical diseases and deserve just as much attention.

If you want to be a part of such a positive change in society, there are things you can do to change your outlook on mental health issues.

Understand how many people are affected.

A mental health issue is not a ‘small-scale’ issue by any means. Anyone you know could be suffering from anxiety, depression, or another condition that affects the way they think and feel.

By understanding the sheer number of people around the world who are affected by mental health issues, you’ll likely begin to understand that it isn’t something that can just be ignored.

Focus on the mental wellness of yourself and those around you.

Try to incorporate mental wellness into your way of life. When you’re happy and healthy, these positive vibes will be shared with those around you.

Understand the importance of taking care of yourself and looking out for your mental health. Others may begin to follow suit. Someday, through the influence of dedicated supporters, people may take caring for their minds as seriously as many currently take looking after their bodies.

Be open to talking about issues.

If you’re willing to talk openly about mental health issues, others may pick up on it and begin to do the same. Demonstrate mental-emotional maturity and don’t be scared of discussing any negative feelings you’re experiencing.

The more we discuss our problems, the more they will become widely accepted within society. We’re already on the right track, so let’s go the distance.

Look at things from their perspective.

Empathy is key when attempting to understand those with mental health issues. While it may feel impossible to completely understand what the person is going through, you may wish to consider the way they are actually feeling.

Try to be curious about their situation. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. They may even appreciate having someone to talk to! Listen to their worries or complaints and try to make them feel as if you understand. Your efforts will be more than appreciated.

While these may seem like minimal steps, they can actually go a long way in influencing those around you and reducing the stigma relating to mental health issues. The key is to keep talking. Mental health issues are common, let those who are suffering know that support is out there.

We hope you like and benefit from this article and considering sharing it so others may benefit too.

Wishing you all the very best for the future!

iMindCoach Team

Advanced Mind Coaching Specialists

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