We take a person with visible symptoms and try to explain them with every plausible explanation except the actual reason that may be the underlying cause....
MENTAL HEALTH
Often times we stigmatise mental health. We never talk about it as if it’s a curse. It may be as obvious as an elephant in the room but we wouldn’t know how to address it. We take a person with visible symptoms and try to explain them with every plausible explanation except the actual reason that may be the underlying cause.
To be fair, I imagine most people don’t know the reason why someone might be acting up, or being irritable or rude. But then there are empathetic people. Those with high emotional quotient, or just those who have practiced the skill to notice the world for what it is can probably tell that something in someone is wrong or flawed. These people will take their behaviour differently. Or at least try to rationalise it.
But that still doesn’t help the struggling person, right?
What helps the person is getting help. The right tools to regulate their neurotransmitters. Different methods to engage in healthy behaviour and practice being kind to oneself and others as well.
And also having the insight to face the awful truth.
That yes, I have a problem.
Yes, I have hurt someone because I was clouded by my state of mind.
I cannot move forward till I try to make amends. And when this behaviour becomes self destructive one has to judge if it is under control or not.
If it is manageable then regular help, being mindful, practicing to be a better, healthier person works.
But what happens when it gets out of control?
You start blaming others for your predicament. Take no responsibility of your behaviour. Delve into self-destructive ways and at the same time also spew hatred and intolerance towards others.
All in all, one is unable to be a functioning member of the society.
So what happens then?
You seek medical and professional help. You get admitted if need be. You confide in family and friends.
Because the road to recovery is just as hard as hitting rock bottom.
But these addictions and destructive lifestyles are not just as they are perceived and people who are already struggling to stay afloat are more vulnerable to the menaces in our society.
Point being – be kind to yourself and others. You don’t know what someone is going through. Be less judgemental towards others. Offer help to those in need. Be empathetic towards them but only to the extent that you can handle. Forgive them and pray that they heal with time. And most importantly, always ask yourself how a situation or person is making YOU feel. Whether it is good for your mental health.
There lies the greatest strength.
It is only when we truly own our struggles and intentionally try to make our minds a safe space to be in. To call it home rather than hostile territory can we also thrive in this world. Be productive beings and also nurture healthy relations with ourselves and others.
But it all requires a start. To ignite this conversation and not make it a taboo. To open up more so that people don’t have to hide their malady and seek treatment. To make it easy for people to reach out more. And create a better world for everyone.
