Overcoming the Stigma of Mental Health Disorder

 

Overcoming the Stigma of Mental Health Disorder

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Mental illness has always been a stigmatized issue around the globe. From being thought of as a moral punishment or an affliction from the devil, the ideologies surrounding mental illness have ranged wide. Most people with mental health disorders have been called names and their symptoms has been referred to as something they can control if only, they tried hard. The stigma around mental health rises out of fear and lack of understanding.

It causes patients to feel ashamed for something that is not in their control. Worst of all, stigma prevents people from seeking help. However, it is more damaging when you internalize that stigma and start believing those negative stereotypes people ascribe to you.

 

Tips to Combat Stigma

1. You Are Not Alone

If you have a mental condition, remember that you are not alone, and many people experience mental illness. One in four U.S adults has a mental illness of some kind.

2. Get Treatment

You may be reluctant to admit you should get treated. Don’t allow the fear of stigma to prevent you from seeking help. Treatment provides relief and gives you overall wellness.

3. Find Support

Whatever you do, try to find support.  Stay connected to others; it could be your friends, family, or clergy. Seek support from organizations that provide educational and supportive resources for those who are affected by mental illness.

4. Speak Out

Start educating those around you about the realities of mental illness, including how rampant it is. Consider expressing yourself at events, letters, or on the internet. It will help instill courage in others facing similar challenges.

People’s judgment mostly stems from a lack of understanding. Learning to accept your condition while seeking support and treatment makes all the difference.

 

 

 

GinMan Consulting is here to help you

develop yourself and all that you deserve.

 

Visit us at www.ginmanconsulting.com

 

The Other Side of Depression

The Other Side of Depression

            A hidden fire... depression! Many refuse to seek treatment for depression due to the unsettling stigma and lack of support society displays. Despite the many unwelcoming embraces that a depression sufferer often faces, there is another backside to depression. Even though family and friends are also gravely affected by loved ones with symptoms of depression, rarely do they receive treatment along with their loved ones. Both affected parties are riddled with sadness, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness and suicidal ideations simultaneously when only one has the diagnosis. When loved ones are suffering with depression, family and friends feel helpless, restless and scared.

            What does the family and friends of these victims of depression need for strength?

#1 Moving family and friends from worry to optimism

            Use the power of positivity. Depression is a dark and dreary disease that produces negative and sad feelings. Reverse the affect by surrounding yourself with positive people, places, situations, words and actions. Family and friends need to be loaded with infinite amounts of energetic vibes, thoughts and feelings.

#2 Moving family and friends from codependent to supportive

            Be on the same team without being a crutch. Feeling sorry for a loved one with depressive moods is a normal reaction. Overcome codependency that can keep loved ones stuck with depressive feelings. Know that it is the responsibility of the sufferer along with your support to accept the help available to manage depression.

#3 Moving family and friends from guilt to security

            Don’t abandon your security blanket. Not being able to help soothe and manage the depression of a loved one effectively causes feelings of guilt. Ensure yourself that you have done all you can to show unconditional love and support for the struggles that are present without feeling responsible. If you have done all you can do in a healthy way, that’s all you can do.

Family therapy is a great way to work through and manage symptoms of depression for everyone involved. It offers a sense of togetherness and support that increases the chance of successful and long- term recovery from depression.

For more information about how family therapy can assist your family and loved ones with symptoms of depression such as sadness, stress, feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness, contact GINMAN CONSULTING at

http://www.ginmanconsulting.com/

Feel free to leave any comments or suggestions you may feel about this article and/ or family therapy.

Thanks in Advance,

Virginia xoxoxoxoxo