The prevalence of mental health issues is arguably at an all-time high, statistically speaking, and while this is an alarming realization, I wouldn’t say it is an unlikely one. This world is full of all sorts of atrocities, and it doesn’t seem to be improving anytime soon.
So many of us are dealing with mental illness, and while some of us are outspoken and forward about it, there are plenty who are not and find it difficult to talk about what we are dealing with or to confide in someone we trust. Sadly, there are many instances in which someone is seriously struggling and feels as though they have nowhere to turn, only for their situation to end very tragically.
It’s often the happiest people who are carrying the biggest burdens. They may present a light-hearted, goofy exterior, but that doesn’t necessarily reflect what’s going on inside their head. I often think about Robin Williams – he brought tremendous joy to so many, yet we were entirely ignorant to the battles the man was fighting alone.
I think it is safe to say that it has never been more important to check in on loved ones and their mental health. The stigma of mental illness has calmed down a bit, but there is still a lot of work to be done, and it is up to us to come together, collectively, and advocate for mental health and its significance for all persons.
It might seem a bit awkward, but reaching out to check in on loved ones is not something we should be uncomfortable with. These people are the nearest and dearest to our hearts, so why should it seem ‘weird’ to ask how they’re doing mentally? Perhaps they’re great, and perhaps they’re lower than low – there is only one way to find out, and it starts with a simple question.
Photo by Nik Shuliahin 💛💙 on Unsplash
ontheedgeofeverything 