It’s okay to not be okay.
These words are repeated often in our society, but what do they mean in real life? Many of us live busy lives, filled with huge responsibilities – whether it’s work, kids, partners, aging parents, bills, pets, or friends, life rarely seems to slow down. Sometimes, even the thought of sitting with our thoughts and acknowledging the idea that we might not be okay can be scary. If we aren’t okay, what does that mean for the people, commitments, and responsibilities that need our attention and care?
Mental health stigma can exist within families, communities, and societies, and even within ourselves. This can create reluctance or even shame when it comes to acknowledging that we are not okay. Even more challenging can be the realization that we might need some help to feel better.
If you think you may be experiencing struggles with your mental health and are facing doubt, shame, or uncertainty about how to seek help and support, here are a few ideas to help you move forward:
- Remember that you are not alone. Mental health struggles are part of life. A great many of us will deal with some form of mental illness during our lifetime.
- Speak to someone you trust. You don’t need to face this alone. A family member, friend, co-worker, teacher, neighbour, gym buddy – think about the people in your life who have shown themselves to be trustworthy and open. Seeking their help to find support, talk about your feelings or thoughts, or just have someone to listen can be very helpful.
- Educate yourself. Even though googling symptoms and looking up articles about what you are feeling can be helpful in some cases, the best way to ensure you are getting factual, research-based information about what you are experiencing for you to seek out reputable sources. Here are two examples of reliable places to find accurate mental health information:
- Don’t equate yourself or your self-worth with your mental health struggles. This is a challenge you are walking through, not a defining characteristic.
- Seek support from skilled, knowledgeable care providers and clinicians. When you feel ready, speak to your doctor, nurse practitioner, naturopath, or walk-in clinic physician about how you are feeling. Find a counsellor or therapist who you feel comfortable with to walk alongside you on your mental health journey.
Synergy Counselling is ready to help you take the next step on your mental health journey. Our clinicians offer non-judgemental support and services and can work with you to chart a course through your mental health struggles and toward a better quality of life.