Let’s talk about mental health
Today marks the beginning of NAMI’s mental health awareness month. It’s a time for raising awareness about mental health and educating others about their options. While I am not a mental health professional, I’d love to welcome you on a journey exploring your mental health.
Disclaimer: I am not a mental health professional. I am just someone who is open to sharing their own experience to highlight resources I’m aware of and help others. Should you feel you need support with your mental wellbeing, I encourage you to seek out a professional who is trained to help you!
Mental health isn’t always a topic that’s easy to discuss; however, I invite you to take a moment to take a deep breath and reflect on your own mental health experience. Mine is a story near and dear to me. I plan to share soon but in the meantime I’m wondering…
What are your thoughts about mental health?
Is mental health a taboo topic to you, your family, community, or in any environment you were brought up in?
Does the way in which you were brought up encourage you to seek support for your mental health? Why or why not?
Whether you have all of the answers to these questions or no answers at all, I am glad you are here and choosing to open your mind to my lived experiences.
Throughout the month I’ll be sharing my personal mental health journey along with some guidance and suggestions for those inquiring. Please note, this is a safe space. While curiosity is expected and welcomed, distasteful comments are not. I understand the risk of exposing myself in such a way on the internet. However, I also have boundaries about discussing mental health and my personal struggles.
Before commenting on someone else‘s situation (in real life or on the internet), I encourage you to consider the THINK approach.
Before speaking, ask yourself “is what I’m about to say...”
True?
Helpful?
Inspiring?
Necessary?
Kind?
If you answer “no” to any of those questions, it’s probably best you keep your comments to yourself. Please & thank you.
Projecting onto others is not cute.
Sincerely,
Takira
