I'm Over the Mental Health Stigma

Let's just start by saying this, I have never and will never discount mental illness. As someone who has walked through it and watched others walk through it, I acknowledge that it is a real issue that needs to be addressed. I'm sick and tired of mental health either being shouted from the rooftops or whispered about behind backs. I'm obviously not a licensed professional, but I feel as though this needs to be faced. It's time for some real talk.

Earlier this year, I decided to change my major from Political Science to Psychology for one main reason: the brain fascinates me. However, pursuing psychological studies has very quickly opened my eyes to a lot of things. The mental health stigma is one of these.

Let's be real, everyone struggles with mental health at some point in their life, and a lot of us deal with it privately. Whether it's grieving the loss of a loved one, anxiety about what may or may not happen, fear of missed opportunities, or anything else you can possibly think of, mental health is a real and active issue. But let me tell you: it's not something you have to go through alone! Whether you know it or not, I can guarantee there are people you know that are struggling in similar ways as you. Get open, find support, and overcome together. We were never made to struggle alone, and we should never feel like we have to.

I have also come to realize that many churches don't often discuss this topic and sort of tiptoe around it in a way, which forces so many to suffer in silence. There is so much shame associated with mental health because there is a vulnerability that comes with admitting our flaws. As Christians, we are called to love people through their struggles, so why are we so afraid to address mental health struggles? Let's get honest people! No one has this life thing down, and no one is ever going to. So let's stop acting like we know what we're doing and start believing that God is working all things for good in His timing.

Last thing, please invest in your health. Like seriously. Your well-being matters. Put in the time, energy, and effort into truly prioritizing your own health. As someone who loves to prioritize others, I can personally attest to the fact that burnout is so real when you're not spending time caring for yourself. It is not selfish or vain, it is a necessary means of maintenance that allows us to continue to love people well.