Mental and mood disorders are far more common than people think. Anxiety, which is usually coupled with a depressive disorder or depressive symptoms, is a taboo in conversation. So, let's talk about it:
People, I find, will admit to feeling overwhelming anxiety symptoms that are far beyond normal stress levels. However, these people almost never admit to having a disorder or, if they don't know, won't go and see a doctor/therapist for it. I've noticed that the second you say "disorder" there is a stigma that people cater to, and it needs to stop.
Stigmas: Unhealthy For All
-"Disorder" does NOT mean "crazy" or "unbalanced." Plenty of people have mild, moderate or severe mood disorders and it's not "weird."
-People who have a mental illness or mood disorder should NOT be feared. It is wrong to be scared/phobic towards someone who is anxious/sad/guilty/etc because of a disorder! This is the stigma we need to stop.
-We as people should be there to help and support those who have a mental illness like we are for any other kind of illness. Yes, anxiety and depression are diseases of the mind. They're a cause for help and care without judgement.
To Anyone Who Feels Anxious or Sad:
Afraid to see a doctor? DON'T BE.
If you feel sad, anxious, hopeless or unwell YOU DESERVE TO FEEL BETTER. If there are people in your life who make you feel guilty for being sad or anxious, get them out of your life! You need to heal and feel better.
There are lots of options to help improve your life:
-See a doctor- If you do have something, knowing it for sure is the first step to feeling better and getting treatment.
-If you need to, take medication- If you had any other illness, you would! If you and your doctor feel it is the right option, medicines can help improve your health alongside other lifestyle changes. It can help the transition period be much smoother, until you feel happy and confident enough to continue improving without the medication.
-Exercise- Exercise stimulates dopamine, your "happy" hormone. It also provides relaxation and confidence.
-Accept yourself and be gentle- If you had a broken leg, you wouldn't force yourself to walk on it! Anxiety, depression, etc take time and care to heal and improve.
To The Friends/Family/Significant Others of Anxious People:
It can be hard to have someone in your life with a mental illness or mood disorder. However, they are some of the kindest, most considerate, and most observant people I, personally, have ever met. Remember:
-Be patient- Always. Remember everyone processes things differently, and for anxious people, certain "normal" or "easy" things are immensely difficult.
-Learn to recognize when something is wrong- whether it's a full blown anxiety or panic attack or just feeling scared to call and order takeout, learn to recognize the symptoms of anxiety in the person you love, and what to do when they occur.
-Communication isn't always easy- We love you. we really do. But, our brains are attacking us, and sometimes it's TERRIFYING to say what we feel. Please, be patient and loving.
-Lastly, NEVER make someone feel guilty for being anxious. Everyone has their crosses to bear and their burdens to carry, and anxiety and depression or any other disorder should NOT be treated as optional, taboo, or something to feel ashamed of.
Always love and be kind, even to strangers, it may change someone's life.
