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So why do so many do this? Speak about their struggles online, or travel the globe to tell their stories to vast audiences? To stop the stigma. To bring mental health issues to the forefront and normalize them. For so long, mental illness has been a taboo topic, one we have swept under the rug and never spoken about. Although this is improving, there are so many who continue to suffer in silence. But, there are also many people and initiatives actively working to change our collective approach to mental health.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”4650″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Shining the Light on Mental Health
Shine The Light On (STLO) is one of these movements, a clothing brand that is working to bring a voice to mental health. The first shirt ever produced boldly stated “the things that make me different make me” and it was then that founder Eli Brown initially saw his vision come to fruition. Eli himself has struggled with depression and speaks openly about his journey as a sexual assault survivor. This trauma caused him to abuse drugs and alcohol as a way of coping. He didn’t feel as though he was able to talk about what had occurred, let alone seek opportunities or resources to constructively overcome the ordeal. After some time Eli found the help he needed, and his personal experience suffering solitarily motivated him to find a way to support youth who may be living in similar circumstances. His journey inspired him to create Shine The Light On which aims to bring awareness to mental health issues that affect youth. A portion of each sale contributes to mental health training, education, and programming.
[/vc_column_text][vc_text_separator title=”“we want to shift the paradigm and redirect the conversation from reducing stigma to acceptance. We want to stop the negative attitudes that people living with mental health issues face. By wearing STLO, you are engaging in the change that is needed to overcome limiting beliefs and prejudices.“ – Shine The Light On” title_align=”separator_align_left” style=”dotted” border_width=”5″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”4653″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Many of us have experienced some form of difficulty with our mental health. I myself had a hard time finding my happiness and I have friends and loved ones who deal with anxiety and depression on an ongoing basis.In these circumstances, it can be extremely challenging to understand just how to support someone whether they are just beginning to identify a problem or actively seeking treatment. In an effort to do what I can to stop the stigma surrounding mental health, I’ve done a lot of research on the topic to share three simple ways we can all come together to not only help those in our lives through their journey, but change the collective culture surrounding mental illness through our actions.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content”][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”4665″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]1) Inform & Educate Yourself
As of late, there’s been a lot of talk about mental health. But in general, as a society, we still have a long way to go. As members of the general public we don’t know nearly as much as we need to about mental illness. There is a lack of understanding about mental health disorders, and many still harbour misconceptions and perpetuate stereotypes as a result of ignorance.
People who suffer from mental illness are not necessarily unstable, unpredictable, or violent. Our lack of knowledge causes us to make these judgments because we fear what we do not know. Educating yourself and becoming more familiar with what someone with a mental illness can or cannot do is integral in eliminating this fear of the unknown. In many cases, I’m willing to bet you would find that people can do a lot more than you think. There are so many myths out there, so if you’re hoping to inform yourself, look to credible sources to find the truth. If you’re supporting a friend or loved one that is facing a specific illness seek out as much detailed information as you can. Local mental health associations are a great resource and can also provide guidance regarding recovery while connecting you with support groups. You can also check out the links at the conclusion of this post to explore some of the credible sites where I found many informative articles.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_gallery interval=”3″ images=”4663,4662″ img_size=”full” onclick=””][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]2) Talk About It
It’s about asking and listening. This isn’t an easy conversation to have, so creating a safe space for dialogue is integral. Talk to a friend or loved one in the appropriate setting, when there are no distractions and you have ample time to have an open-ended conversation. As important as it is to talk, it’s critical that the person you’re supporting feel as though they’re able to steer the conversation. Let them lead the discussion and go at their own pace. It can take a lot of courage to be vulnerable, and it involves an immense amount of trust. Keep in mind that you may be the first person to ask so this may be the first time they are attempting to make sense of their complex feelings and put their thoughts into words.
As the listener, it’s your job to ask open-ended questions such as “tell me how you’re feeling?” and give the person as much time as they need to respond. Never put pressure on them, jump to conclusions, or provide a diagnosis (leave that to the medical professionals). Listen and repeat what they have said to ensure you understand, regardless of whether you agree. It’s not about you, after all. It’s about respecting and creating space for their feelings.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]3) Be Kind
Yes, it sounds simple because it is. How you treat someone when they are struggling has a huge impact on their well-being. I read countless articles that cited studies directly correlating negative behaviour with diminishing progress in overcoming mental health disorders. Exhibiting hostility and criticism towards those who are feeling exposed, sensitive, or actively seeking help increases chances of relapse. In short, your attitude and approach can be more influential than you may realize.
Manage your expectations, just because someone may be seeking treatment or may have been admitted to a care facility for several weeks does not necessarily mean they are suddenly cured. Mental health is not a static illness, it’s a moving target and everyone’s journey and experience is uniquely their own. Let your loved ones travel along their own trajectory and encourage them along the way with a positive attitude. It’s incredibly impactful.
The smallest gestures can make all the difference, for not only the person you are supporting but also for yourself. Kindness has a profound effect on everyone’s mental and physiological health. Kindness is contagious. Studies show that experiencing kindness can greatly improve your mood, outlook on life, and is likely to spread to those around you. Exercise compassion and in doing so you’ll also promote your own ability to be grateful and empathetic towards others.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_text_separator title=”“Emotional pain is not something that should be hidden away and never spoken about. There is truth in your pain, there is growth in your pain, but only if it’s first brought out into the open.“- Steven Aitchison” style=”dotted” border_width=”5″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”4664″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]I am of course no expert on this topic, but I believe that the more we speak openly about mental health the more likely we are to change our societal approach to it. There is no shame in seeking help, support, or reaching out to those around you when and if you need it. It requires great strength and is an exemplary action that fosters change and growth in all of us. When someone opens up in an effort to improve their situation, that’s your chance to support them and do what you can to stop the stigma.Anna
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Resources” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column css_animation=”none” width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1541903059431{border-radius: 30px !important;}”]News, programs, & events: The Canadian Mental Health Association
Information & resouces about suicidal behaviour: Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention
Discussions & education about mood disorders: Mood Disorders Society of Canada
Innovative tools & resources specific to youth mental health: Mind Your Mind
Mental health blogs & articles: Mental Health Foundation (UK)
Education & support for depression & bipolar disorder: Depression & Bipolar Support Alliance
Prevention & treatment for anxiety disorder: Anxiety Disorders Association of Canada
Free & anonymous support for young people: Kids Help Phone
Photography by Red Lemon Art & Photography. All opinions and comments are my own. STRUCKBLOG uses affiliate links, please see my disclaimer for details.
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