A Personal and Transformative Experience
For years, I held a heavy secret: I struggled with mental illness. The stigma surrounding mental health kept me trapped in a cycle of shame and fear. I often felt alone thinking I was the only one dealing with these issues. I always thought I had to be the happiest person in the room. The day I shared my story, I realised I wasn't alone in this battle. Speaking up about your mental health struggles can actually have a positive impact on you and those around you.
The Reality of Mental Health Stigma in India
In the West, mental health is a topic that one can speak about more openly than in India. However, during COVID-19, we have come a long way with numerous people speaking out about mental health and their struggles. The negative attitude that individuals have towards mental health is still very much prevalent. Stigma does not discriminate - everybody experiences it. Suffering in silence always seems like a better option for most people.
For years, I spent sleepless nights struggling with my thoughts. I didn't even know how to talk about what I felt and just remained paralysed by this fear. I didn't know how people would treat me. I used to get the occasional "But you seem fine" and "What could you be depressed about?"
Realizing that my silence was doing more harm than good, I decided to take the first step and talk to my parents. I was met with some level of confusion, followed by unconditional support.
Discovering My Voice
I studied psychology in both school and college - I had read multiple research papers, articles, and spoken to so many people about mental health. This knowledge actually empowered me. Instead of seeing my mental illness as a flaw, I began to view it as a part of my journey—one that many others share. And something I knew I could work on.
Initially, I confided in close family and friends about my struggles. To my surprise, their reactions were overwhelmingly supportive. They, too, began to open up about their own experiences. This supportive environment helped me realize that I was not alone.
Pro Tip: Educate Yourself and Others
Understanding your own mental health is crucial. Read reliable literature and seek resources from mental health organizations.
Sharing My Story with the World
Choosing to share my story publicly was daunting. Hitting "publish" on my first article made my heart race. I had no clue what to expect from people. I had spent 20 years of my life as the most positive person in every friend group, and now I was going to be that person who has depression and anxiety.
The impact was almost immediate. I received numerous messages from all those closest to me and those who only knew me in passing. People started opening up to me about their struggles and took steps to get help. Many were parents sharing their struggles on how to help their children deal with mental health issues. These conversations became so important to me because I knew I can make a difference.
Quick Statistics
The World Health Organization reported that as many as 450 million people globally suffer from mental health conditions, yet 75% of them do not seek help due to stigma. Sharing experiences can bridge this gap.
Embrace the Power of Your Story
I discovered that the act of speaking out not only helped others but also provided healing for me. Each story I published and each message and thoughtful comment was a reminder of what happens when we are vulnerable.
Sharing my journey reshaped how I viewed my own mental health. I don't think there is such a thing as completely breaking the stigma, but these are steps I know I have taken in the right direction. Remember, you are never alone, and your voice matters. It might be the spark that helps another person feel seen and heard.
Your story matters.
Your voice matters.
You matter.
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