No Problem is Too Small
Since 1949, May has been the cornerstone of dismantling the societal barricade constructed around the quiet battle fought by millions of people. We all know what Mental Health means, right? The CDC outlines how this broad term includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being.(https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/learn/index.htm); however, how does that translate to the individual? If we break this down further, our mental health affects our ability to think and process information, impacts our feelings and emotions, and dictates how we act and respond to various situations. If unmanaged, it further impacts our ability to handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices.
We hear the term “Mental Illness” and immediately think of the worst-case scenario, neglecting the concept that all diagnoses, mental and physical, maintain a spectrum of severity. For example, a person can be diagnosed with diabetes; however, treatments will vary based on the severity of said diagnosis. A person can potentially manage their symptoms through diet and exercise, while others may need prescribed medications, and some require insulin. All three people carry the same diagnosis; however, the severity of and treatment dramatically shifts from one person to the next. Additionally if untreated, the disease will progress, requiring more intense treatment.
Although a seemingly obvious concept, like a physical health affliction, it is important to acknowledge that anyone’s mental health can be negatively impacted. Yes, genetic predisposition can be a contributing factor; however, poor mental health can stem from physical illness or injury, stressful life events, family and interpersonal conflicts, cultural understanding and beliefs, and a person’s access to treatment (for more information, reference https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK20369/). Comparatively, however, we are less likely to ignore if we develop a cough or fever, break a bone, or contract another type of physical health condition but almost eager to “put on a happy face” and pretend everything is fine.
Many mental health struggles continue to be determined solely on self-report with the lack of medical tests to “confirm” a person’s struggle. This “lack of evidence” is then used as fodder by individuals and medical professionals alike to sometimes blame the individual into believing they are not helping themselves or are “making it up.” Awareness of mental health struggles has helped to reduce the stigma; however, we still have a long journey to travel.
Statistics of individuals living with and managing mental illnesses are regularly collected and published. This has started the conversation; however, let’s continue and advance this discussion. These statistics have helped spread the understanding that millions of people have struggled, been diagnosed, are or have been in treatment, and continue to live productive and rewarding lives. In 2021, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) estimated that 57.8 million people are living with a mental illness (https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-illness). This number translates to the collective populations of Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. While this statistic assists those struggling to know they are not alone, it can also perpetuate the concept of “that won’t happen to me.”
What if we start to shift the idea that someone can experience a mental health issue like they may experience a broken or fractured bone? On average, a person will experience Two broken bones during their life. This begins to change the narrative and focus of treatment. If immediately treated, recovery time and one’s ability to return to daily activities are shortened. Conversely, if untreated, one’s ability to function can further deteriorate and negatively impact them throughout their life. Additionally, despite receiving immediate treatment, a person will require a recovery period before returning to the same activities they were engaging in previously.
Mental health diagnoses include a person’s struggle during a difficult lifetime milestone or adjustment period, even if this may seem minimal, up to a chemical imbalance requiring significant and sometimes life-long treatment. This means that not every mental health struggle requires extensive treatment, hospitalizations, or even medications. There are many forms of treatment available, such as talk therapy, support groups, peer support, and self-help groups, that serve to empower people to maintain the best version of themselves and process whatever struggles they are experiencing without exploring potentially harmful and dangerous alternatives to manage and cope.
It is okay not to be okay; however, staying not okay while pretending everything is okay is not okay. If you are struggling, no issue should ever be dismissed or considered insignificant, preventing you from seeking help. Being proactive will only help you to become the best version of yourself.
Hearth Counseling and Consulting has several providers who can help if you need support. Visit https://www.hearthcc.com/contact to schedule a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation.
Written by Rob Cline, MSW, LCSW