Mental Health: Let’s Talk About It
Mental health can be difficult to talk about, but it doesn’t have to be! I know it can feel uncomfortable and vulnerable, but the world will be a better place if we open our hearts and minds to the conversation of mental health.
It doesn’t have to be in person. I’m not usually an advocate for more phone time, but it can be a great way to connect with people, especially long distance. Most of my close friends live states away, and apps like Marco Polo, facetime, and texting is a game changer! You don’t have to be face to face with friends or loved ones to check in on their mental health. In fact, some people may find it easier to open up on an app or via text.
Ask more than once. We’ve all heard, and probably responded, “Fine” or “okay” when asked how we are. Challenge yourself and others to look past politeness and into true vulnerability. I know, easier said than done. Asking twice may give that person permission to be honest and open. You answering the same way when asked may also make them more comfortable to do the same.
Talk about your own experience. This one is a difficult one, but talking about yourself and what you’ve experienced relating to mental health can break down some of the stigmas attached to it. Talking about our experiences can erase some of the taboo regarding mental health and allow for more understanding and less judgment.
There is no ‘perfect’ moment. There may never be a perfect moment in a conversation where talking about mental health feels natural or comfortable. Do it anyway. Your friends and community will thank you for it. It can be awkward at times, but mental health is something we can all relate to in one way or another. Take the leap and initiate or encourage the conversation.
Recognize the signs. Another way to open the conversation about mental health is to recognize the signs someone may be struggling. This may include isolation from others, impulsive behavior, increased substance use, posting odd or negative things online, or other uncharacteristic behaviors of the individual.
