Especially this time of year, physical sickness is not an uncommon thing. Vaccinations are made available to help treat and prevent various illnesses and doctors' offices are full. Due to the brokenness of this world, a lot of sicknesses happens year round. Some illnesses are treatable with an antibiotic, whereas some can be deadly. This kind of illness is typically easy to detect since the symptoms are a lot more obvious.

Mental illness is sometimes a lot more difficult to detect. In some cases, there can be physical symptoms, but most of them are detected in how a person acts. That can be a lot more difficult because it's not always as obvious. It's a lot easier to hide this by putting a "mask" on and smiling. Some use it as a coping mechanism, due to the pressure that society has to be happy and okay all the time.

I'm writing this article to convey that mental health should be taken just as seriously as physical health. Some things just need time to heal, both mentally and physically. Regardless of how severe it is, a person should still feel like they can acknowledge it. What are we saying when we don't take care of our mental health or seek help if necessary? That it is not important? That people won't understand? That might be true actually. I believe that some might joke about this or be dramatic, but what if they're serious?

Mental illness can be just as destructive as a physical illness. It's from the inside out though, so it's not always as noticeable until it gets really bad. That's why it's important to know the signs of suicide in people around you. Many don't get the help they need until it's too late.

Whether it's as severe as suicidal thoughts or just having a few days when you're down in the dumps, it is okay to admit that you aren't okay. In fact, I encourage it. Admitting that there is a problem is the initial step in taking care of the issue. So many times we try to brush through it or ignore our thoughts. Why? We take the time to care for our physical health. Why not your inner self? That is just as much a part of you as the outside is.

Work and life stressors can definitely take a toll on one's mental health. Society places a lot of pressure on a person, as does a lot of jobs. Maybe a reason why it is so tempting at acting like everything is okay is feeling like you can't handle your life. Society says we have to have all the answers, with everything all together. That is not always realistic and has the potential of doing damage to people.

Therefore, be honest with yourself. Surround yourself with those who love you and can see past the fake smile. Take your mental health seriously, because a lot of serious stuff can happen if it is ignored.