How many times have your feelings become so overwhelming that you felt like you would be crushed under the weight of your worries? If this sounds familiar, you may be dealing with depression or anxiety. Know that you are not alone, and your feelings are genuine. This is why Emotional Wellness Month is a much-needed reminder to our community about the importance of self-care.
Understandably, not everyone is clear on precisely what emotional wellness is, or how to achieve it. Also, there are many people in the world who believe that things like depression, anxiety and trauma are not real or not serious enough to seek support. This is what we call mental health stigma.
So how do we overcome stigma to achieve emotional wellness? Firstly, it is important to acknowledge that if you are feeling down, depressed, anxious or struggling with any other form of mental health problem, these issues are completely normal. A diagnosis only serves to identify and assist in treating your problems, not to label you. Secondly, to live is to be human. The human experience is wrought with internal conflicts that we have within ourselves. It’s not easy when our innermost thoughts and feelings are at odds. And that’s OK. You have a community that’s around to support you. Lastly, never be afraid to get help. If you or a loved one is struggling, or suffering from feelings that you feel are out of control, support starts with trust and a conversation. You can trust us, and we’re here to hear.