Mental health is an important aspect of overall health and well-being. Yet it is stigmatized and difficult to talk about. Breaking down the shame surrounding mental health is critical for promoting awareness and encouraging individuals to seek the help they need.
Here are some tips for talking about mental health with your friends and family:
Understand the Stigma
The first step in breaking down the presumed humiliation surrounding mental health is to understand the negative impact it can have. Stigma can prevent individuals from seeking help and can contribute to feelings of shame and isolation. Understanding the reasons why mental health is branded in a negative light can help you approach conversations with loved ones with empathy and compassion.
Initiate the Conversation
Difficult conversations are difficult to begin. Starting a conversation about mental health is challenging, but it is important in breaking down and removing the disgrace and humiliation associated with having a mental issue or concern. Choose a comfortable setting and approach the conversation in a gentle and non-judgmental way. By framing the conversation in a positive way and emphasizing the importance of mental health to overall well-being, you can encourage others to seek help if needed.
Practice Active Listening
Active listening is important in any conversation, but it is an especially important skill when discussing mental health. By giving the person your full attention and avoiding judgment, we can create a safe and supportive space for them to open up about their experiences. Active listening validates the experience of your loved ones.
Be Supportive
When someone opens up about their mental health struggles, it is important to offer support in whatever way you can. This may involve asking how you can help, encourage them to seek professional help, or simply being a supportive presence in their life.
Normalize the Conversation
One of the most effective ways to break down the stigma associated with mental health is to openly share your own experiences and encourage your friends and loved ones to do the same. This helps create a culture of openness and acceptance. This can help to reduce the shame and isolation that often accompany mental health struggles and can encourage individuals to seek the help they need.
Conclusion
Talking about mental health with friends and family is an important step in breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health and general well-being. Initiate a conversation, practice active listening, offer support, and share your own experience or two. You will create a safe and supportive space for individuals to open up about their mental health issues and seek the help they need.
*** Need more self-care tips including info on incorporating more laughter into your day, head on over to A Cup of Positivity on Facebook join the discussion.
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Yellow Car Bingo
Navigating special education is complicated and confusing, but it can be done with success. He can grow up to be caring and productive.
Inside Yellow Car Bingo: A Black Mama’s Journey Through Special Education you’ll find:
- One woman’s trials and triumphs as she advocates for a son labeled with a diagnosis she has never heard of.
- You’ll find those dreams you imagined for the baby you held in your arms at birth. They may differ slightly from your original thoughts, but they are dreams, nonetheless.
- In addition, you’ll find courage, strength, and hope that you can advocate for your child with special needs.
This book is for all the parents who have set aside their dreams to care for their differently-abled child. One day you may hear your young person say, “Yellow Car Bingo.”
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Patricia “Pat” Bumpass is a ghostwriter, self-care advocate, author, and parent coach. She encourages and empowers women and parents with special needs kids to love themselves. Pat is North Carolina “born and bred” and loves coffee — hot or iced. You will often hear her say, “Twertles make me happy.” 🙂
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