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Living in a world that often glorifies strength and independence, the stigma around seeking help for mental health concerns can be overwhelming. It can be particularly daunting for young individuals aged 15 to 24 navigating the treacherous waters of identity, independence, and the pressure to succeed.
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If you are at this phase of your journey, you may feel judged, misunderstood, or isolated in your struggles. However, it's important to understand that these feelings are not uncommon and there are effective ways to overcome them.
Breaking Down the Stigma
Dismantling the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health requires us to understand its roots. This stigma is often rooted in misunderstandings, lack of awareness, and the way society portrays mental health. As a mindfulness coach, I encourage open and honest conversations to dispel these myths and shed light on the reality that mental health challenges are very common and a part of the human experience.
Mental health issues can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or background. Many people who struggle with mental health issues feel ashamed and alone, which can make them hesitant to seek help or speak up. However, it is important to understand that mental health challenges are treatable, and seeking support is a courageous step towards recovery and community.
Cultivating Understanding
Feeling understood is a basic human need that everyone desires to fulfill. It is particularly crucial for individuals dealing with mental health problems, as it can be a source of hope and support. That's why schools, workplaces, and families are becoming more mindful of creating environments where young people feel safe and comfortable expressing their emotions without the fear of facing any negative consequences or being dismissed. To help young people overcome challenges related to mental health, it is important to locate safe spaces that have been designed to cultivate their mental well-being. These safe spaces can provide a range of practical resources and tools to help them learn how to manage and overcome mental health problems.
Practical Step for the Young Adult:Â It's important to take care of your mental health, and sometimes it can be helpful to connect with others who are experiencing similar challenges. That's why it's a good idea to identify local education workshops or support groups that align with your personal needs. Fortunately, schools and community organizations are starting to pay more attention to mental health and offer various resources to support individuals in need. These resources can help you connect with peers, share perspectives, and learn more about mental health in a safe and supportive environment. To take advantage of these opportunities, consider reaching out to your school or workplace and asking about the available resources. You may be pleasantly surprised at the opportunities available to you!
What’s Your Biggest Fear About Discussing Mental Health?
Being judged by others
Not being taken seriously
Hurting my professional reputation
Straining personal relationships
Strength in Scripture: Verses for Courage and Comfort in Mental Health
Explore these powerful scriptures that offer reassurance, peace, and strength. Each verse has been selected to inspire courage, provide comfort, and remind you that you are never alone in your journey toward mental wellness.
"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." - 2 Timothy 1:7
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." -Philippians 4:6-7
"The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?" -Psalm 27:1
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." -Matthew 11:28-30
"I’m absolutely convinced that nothing - nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today or tomorrow, high or low, thinkable or unthinkable - absolutely nothing can get between us and God’s love because of the way that Jesus our Master has embraced us. " -Romans 8:38-39 MSG
Confronting the Fear of Being Judged
Feeling afraid of being judged can be an intimidating experience that can leave you feeling helpless and vulnerable. This fear may stop you from seeking the help you need or expressing your true emotions. It can also affect your decision-making ability, leading to a lack of confidence and hesitation when taking risks. However, it is essential to understand that this fear is a normal emotion to have and does not make you weird or crazy. It merely demonstrates that you are aware of how others may perceive you and how much you desire to be accepted for who you are.
Every adult who has gone through the teenage and young adult years has felt this way at some point in their life. Overcoming this fear starts with self-acceptance, which means accepting yourself for who you are, flaws, and all. It is essential to recognize that no one is perfect, and everyone has insecurities, pain, hardships, and struggles. Lean into your community of trusted loved ones and friends to share what you may be going through. This will help you gradually build up to sharing your experiences with trusted professionals who can also be helpful. Remember, it's okay to ask for help. There are resources available to help you overcome this fear.
Practical Steps for the Young Adult:
Mindfulness Practices: Techniques like meditation and guided imagery can help you understand how you feel, develop a stronger sense of self, and reduce anxiety. By focusing on the present moment, you can see the beauty in your journey, dream big, and live unhinged by others' opinions. Mindfulness helps release the pain, accept the love, and welcome peace into your life.
Role-Playing Exercises:Â improve your ability to express your feelings in real-life situations. You can start by standing in front of a mirror, sharing your emotions, and giving yourself some advice. Focus on expressing yourself and work your way up to performing it with a trusted loved one or friend. By practicing these exercises, you can overcome the fear of sharing personal and emotional feelings with others, leading to more fulfilling relationships.
Final Thoughts
One of the biggest challenges that we face in addressing mental health is the stigma surrounding seeking help. Many people feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about their struggles and worry about being judged or misunderstood. But tackling this stigma is not just an individual task—it requires a community effort. By fostering an environment of empathy, understanding, and support, we can help people feel more comfortable reaching out for help when they need it.
This is why it's so important to promote open conversations about mental health. When we talk about our own experiences, we can help others feel less alone and more understood. And when we listen to others without judgment, we can create a safe space where people feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings.
Remember, it's okay to seek help, and it's okay to talk about it. You don't have to go through your struggles alone. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenge, there are people and resources available to help you. So don't be afraid to reach out and take the first step towards getting the support you need.
Call to Action: If you're feeling overwhelmed and ready to seek professional support, the SAMHSA National Helpline is here to help. You can reach out to them at 1-800-662-HELP (4357)—it's confidential, free, and available 24/7. They offer guidance on mental health and substance use disorders and can connect you to local treatment facilities and services. Remember, reaching out for help is a courageous step toward healing.
Looking to connect with your peers at, "A Gym for the Mind?" Create an account to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, or connect by completing our contact form. Let’s continue this important conversation together, and support each other in the world's journey toward better mental health.
At 'A Gym for the Mind,' we believe in the power of community and shared experiences. We invite you to join the conversation by sharing your own insights, struggles, and triumphs in the comments section below. Your voice matters, and by opening up and connecting with others, you're not only contributing to a supportive community but also helping others who may be going through similar challenges. Sign up for 'A Gym for the Mind' today and let's build a space where we can uplift and support each other on our journey towards mental well-being.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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Amirah B. Abdullah, DrPH
Dr. A is a Mindfulness Coach with a passion for helping individuals build the muscle that influences everything they do. For Your Inner GÂ is committed to helping you improve your mental, spiritual, and emotional well-being to support and encourage adulting success!
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