The Truth About Mental Health

Mental illness. It’s really something that no one wants to talk about. It’s an uncomfortable topic, the type that makes most people want to change the subject either out of fear of bringing forth any past or current emotions, or because some have no clue what it feels like to be anxious or depressed for instance, so the subject may change to the beautiful weather outside and a trip to a shopping mall. What’s interesting and frustrating about it, is the fact that what’s inside your head can’t be seen by anyone else. There is no band aid that can be placed on the brain to heal one from destructive thoughts, doubts, and fears. No one can see that the woman who smiles every day at the local market fakes it most of the times for fear of being weak.
 

Let’s face it, we live in a society where fake it until you make it is the realest motto out there. No one really wants anyone to see them cry, so they smile instead, even if it hurts sometimes. For mental illnesses like depression, I realized that although recovery is 100% possible, total recovery takes effort. Lots and lots of effort. I experienced a very serious depression in 2013. It was awful.  I felt as if my mind and soul had shut down completely, and my flesh was all that was present. It is a very serious illness. Now, I still have my days, and I am definitely not afraid to admit that. I’m human and I am still fighting to stay revitalized and positive daily.  I'll be completly honest with you, it's still a struggle to get out of bed sometimes and my moods fluctuate, but I am doing the best I can and with God, all things are possible. For anyone of my readers who have ever felt down, don’t criticize yourself for feeling that way, but reward yourself for every bit of effort you are making to stay on a straight and narrow path. You woke up this morning and started your day, but you didn’t have to. You could have wallowed in bed and forgot all about doing the little things that need to be done. Ladies, you put your makeup on. That’s a step. Men, you sprayed some cologne on your neck even though you didn’t feel like it. Little steps, mean future progress and success and we deserve to be rewarded for our initiative. I am strong and you are strong. We are in this together.