Every time I turn on the TV now, I see a storey about mental health. A well-known name discusses anxiety and panic episodes on a channel. From Marian Keyes to Kristen Bell and Selena Gomez, it's as though everyone has suddenly joined in. These stories give me hope since they illustrate that I am not alone in my struggles with anxiety. However, seeing this news makes me wonder whether more people are comfortable talking about mental health means it is no longer taboo?
Until recently, few people talked about mental health. In private, no one should see or hear what was spoken; it was an embarrassment that should be kept secret or inside the family. As a result, the willingness to debate these issues has increased. In my opinion, we are just getting started on the route we must follow. That's why I'm always pleased to see a news item promoting mindfulness or meditation.
In addition to the media, authoring books and articles about mental health issues is presented directly to the public. Apps like the Meditation App, which allow users to peer into their inner world in a public setting, are increasing awareness of meditation. So he reminds me daily that I am not alone in my anxiety condition and mental health issues.
The difficulty is that we are unaware of our surroundings. Mental illness is considered as a contagious disease. We see them as a source of weakness or shame.
What makes me different from others? My workplace was the perfect example. Anxiety issues are natural and should be discussed, according to one of my bosses. So one day I decided to be more honest with him about my nervousness.
Anxiety sufferers, like myself, struggle. On one side, we strive to improve our own health and well-being, and we try to surround ourselves with supportive folks. Conversely, we are pushed to feel guilty because we are deemed incapable of communicating with others.
The difficulty is that most of us think a focus on mental health is odd. Every now and then, someone slashes their knee or gets the flu. Anyone can worry, panic, or become depressed. The trouble is that we are compelled to ignore them. Mental health concerns are stigmatised in our society, yet he sees them as infectious diseases to prevent. We prefer to keep our worries to ourselves rather than share them with others.
Afraid about being judged or discriminated against? So we should be ourselves and not ashamed of our past. But saying these things is easy, executing them is not. I started getting help for my anxiety three years ago. Having it discussed with close friends took a year. It will probably take me longer to act on my principles and let others see me for who I am.
The Meditation Practice app reminds me that I'm not alone in my challenges. When we meditate, we feel part of a group. Hundreds of people are meditating simultaneously for varied reasons.
One of the most essential things that helped me along the way was meditation on acceptance and my worries. I began to overcome my fears by telling myself that those who truly care about me will accept me for who I am.
I'm not quite ready to share my storey yet, but I'm making progress. I believe I've described one of those stages, and I hope it helps someone in need.
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