It is something that we have all heard of, but maybe never truly thought about. The Oxford dictionary states that mental health is "a person’s condition with regard to their psychological and emotional well-being."
What many people don't always seem to understand, is that mental health disorder symptoms vary for each person. Each emotion felt is entirely unique. A panic attack is a different experience for everyone, just as the symptoms of depression. It is also important to remember that everyone deals with bad mental health at some point or another, and that is okay. In fact, it is normal. Your mental health is important, no matter the severity.
Recently I have realized that suffering from mental health problems is not a definition of who you are. In the past, I often left my mental health on the backburner because I didn't want to be a burden to anyone by admitting that I was not ok, and receiving help. Now that I am again struggling with depression and anxiety, I have realized that the best thing I can do is talk about it. Admitting my struggles to my family and friends has been so unbelievably hard, and even embarrassing. I am watching all of my friends have the time of their lives in college, while I am dealing with the worst anxiety I have ever had in my life because of college. But, I can confidently tell you that talking to people who believe in me does help a tiny bit. If your friends are truly your friends, they will want to be there with you. They will console you while you cry, and make you laugh when you don't think you'll ever smile again. Your family will give you hope that one day, although they will not be able to give you a specific day (no matter how much you beg for one), you will be yourself again.
According to teenhelp.com, less than 33% of teens get help for their depression. For any of you out there struggling with any of the numerous mental disorders, I encourage you to reach out and tell someone, anyone. But go at your own pace. I have experienced first hand, that you will only get the help that you accept. In order to get on the right track to start feeling better, you must be ready to start that process.
Mental health will often times go undetected, and underrated. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), states that anxiety is the most common mental illness in America, "affecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older, or 18% of the population." I believe that our society does not place enough emphasis on the importance of mental health. If we put more emphasis on the well-being of future generations, I think that our country would thrive. There is also a possibility that there would be less violence.
If you, or anyone you know are experiencing symptoms of a mental illness, I encourage you to seek help when you are ready. Below are a few websites you can check out to research mental health. Knowledge is key.
No matter what the mental illness that you are suffering from is, always remember that there are people in this world that love you, and are rooting for you to get through this bump in the road.
