Exploring the Importance of Expressing Mental Well-being through Writing 18/10/2023
It has come to my attention that I’ve been unjustly labeled as someone fixated on mental health and wellbeing, but this couldn’t be further from reality.
The reason is simple: if my story can ignite a glimmer of hope in someone else’s life, then why not dedicate my words to this cause?
My passion for this subject stems from the fact I have personally experienced and continue to endure this journey firsthand.
Mental health is often dismissed or overlooked, lacking the attention it truly deserves.
It is an experience that is not taken seriously enough, and I am determined to change that.
In a world where everyone is unfairly labeled and grouped together, we must remember that we are all unique individuals.
Each of us suffers in our own distinct way, and it is crucial to acknowledge and address these differences.
It feels as though society has already written us off, assigning us a short life expectancy and deeming us insignificant in the grand scheme of things.
But while I have breath in my body, I refuse to accept this narrative.
I believe that our stories, our struggles, and our triumphs are worthy of recognition and understanding.
Sweeping our issues under the rug or passively accepting our defects without trying to get help is the unhealthy way.
Instead, if we gather together and delve into the depths of our own human nature, analyzing our behaviors, identifying our triggers, and understanding the underlying causes of our negativity, we can cultivate a glimmer of hope.
By doing so, we open ourselves up to the possibility of effectively managing this affliction and embarking on a journey of growth and healing.
Throughout my academic journey in mental health, I have delved into numerous textbooks, absorbing their knowledge and insights.
However, I find myself unable to fully connect with some of the standard case scenarios presented within those pages.
The intricacies of mental health, in my opinion, extend far beyond the simplified narratives portrayed in those textbooks.
Recently, I had the opportunity to engage in a meaningful conversation with a diverse group of individuals who shared a common diagnosis of mental illness.
What struck me the most was that despite their shared label, each person’s experience of suffering was unique and distinct.
It became evident that the complexities of mental health can not be confined to a singular narrative but rather encompass a vast spectrum of individual struggles and triumphs.
Throughout my journey, I vividly recall encountering individuals who either doubted my diagnosis or simply refused to acknowledge it.
Their scepticism or denial was so strong that it eventually led me to abandon my medication, a decision that could have had catastrophic consequences.
Thankfully, I eventually realized the importance of seeking professional help, as these individuals, although well-meaning, lacked the expertise of qualified psychiatrists.
When reflecting on our cultural norms, it becomes evident that numerous individuals fail to receive the assistance they desperately need.
This unfortunate situation arises from their preoccupation with heeding the advice of non-professionals rather than seeking guidance from experts.
It is understandable that some individuals refuse to consider medication due to past traumatic experiences.
However, those who do not receive the necessary support often find themselves succumbing to despair and resorting to suicide or eventually becoming institutionalized.
Tragically, their cries for help go unheard as society fails to acknowledge the existence of their struggles.
The diagnosis only exacerbated their condition, as drugs and alcohol became their misguided remedy, further deteriorating their well-being.
I can not dismiss the challenges that individuals in our society encounter due to the way they are treated based on their race, as historical evidence suggests that such incidents have indeed occurred.
My purpose here does not involve delving into such matters.
Nevertheless, I am dedicated to shedding light on the obstacles individuals encounter when they lack any form of familial assistance.
Numerous services exist, yet individuals are gripped by fear, preventing them from seeking help.
My misconception was that by avoiding contact with crisis services, I could evade the possibility of being institutionalized.
Having spent time in mental hospitals, I initially disregarded my surroundings when consumed by illness.
However, as time passed, I became increasingly conscious of the presence of severely afflicted individuals, fueling my desire to escape.
After my discharge from the Mental Institute, my ability to connect with others remained elusive. I found myself trapped within a suffocating bubble for what felt like an eternity, until the right medication finally brought some relief.
Having witnessed a loved one endure a similar struggle, I have gained a profound understanding of the significance of intervention.
It has taught me that relying solely on faith in God may not be sufficient; we must also seek assistance from professionals.
While a person of faith can offer solace and guidance, it is crucial to recognize that they alone can not rescue you from the depths of despair.
To all those who are personally experiencing or have a loved one going through depression, anxiety, or any kind of emotional or mental turmoil, I implore you to seek the appropriate support that suits your needs.
Please refrain from dismissing their concerns or brushing them aside.
If you cannot offer any constructive assistance, it is better to remain silent.
Engage in a conversation with someone who possesses the knowledge and expertise to provide assistance and guidance.
This is a heartfelt message from an individual who endured the burden of undiagnosed depression since childhood without ever seeking professional assistance.
Until the desire to die consumed my every thought, I naively believed that my emotions were just a part of everyday life.
It wasn’t until my late thirties that I reached out for help that I finally stepped foot into the realm of mental health.
However, it took another ten years before I truly embraced the power of therapy.
Then, in October 2018, I made a life-altering choice. I decided to confront my illness head-on and fight with every ounce of strength within me.
Despite the persistent presence of mental health stigma, there has been a notable shift in recent years.
This transformation can be attributed, in part, to the courageous voices of celebrities who have openly shared their personal experiences.
As for myself, I have found solace in channelling my manic energy towards relentless studying and writing blogs, with the sole purpose of inspiring and supporting individuals who, like me, are on a similar journey.
As someone who has personally faced the daily challenges of mental health, I take great pride in advocating for its importance.
I firmly believe in fostering a supportive community where individuals can uplift one another, empowering each other along their unique journeys.
Let us stand together, unashamed, as champions of mental health, inspiring all those who suffer to discover their own path to empowerment.
Natalie Bleau
Scripture of Balance
