Why Talking About Mental Health Is So Important

The last decade has seen a sharp rise in the awareness of mental health issues and thankfully, after many strong campaigns by mental health charities and forward thinking businesses such as Slater & Gordon Lawyers, mental health his being seen in a new light. In truth there is nothing at all that separates mental health and physical health, with the exception of the stigma that has become attached to mental health problems.

This additional awareness has not only benefited those with mental health issues in terms of getting rid of the stigma attached, but it has also brought about change in many other ways. The worrying aspect of mental health is that we don’t know who has problems and who doesn’t, but at least we have now created a safe space where people can talk. If you believe that you are suffering with mental health, don’t hide in the dark, there are many benefits of having a conversation.

More Believable

In the past, if someone said that they were suffering from mental health one of two things would usually happen. The first response to such a remark would be to dust yourself down and ‘carry on regardless’ citing your mental health issue as weakness, the second would be a dismissive response where someone wouldn’t believe you. These days however, you would be surprised just how many people will not only believe you when you tell them about an issue, but would also do what they can to help you out.

Getting Help

Mental health is no longer a life sentence which will see you suffer in silence, many issues can be successfully treated, but you need to know the issue before you can treat it. Breaking down your barriers and having a conversation with someone can be the first step on the road to better mental health, but you have to open up the dialogue.

Showing You Care

It is not just those with mental health issues who should be talking, even if you have no issues you should be vocal about mental health and show that you care, in order to encourage those around you to open up about their health issues. Even something as simple as copying and pasting one of those inspirational messages on your Facebook, which basically tells the world that you don’t judge and that you are there for anyone who needs support.

Further Awareness

The reason that we have arrived at this point with regards to mental health issues, is because we have started talking, and we have opened up conversations without prejudice. In order to keep making changes for mental health sufferers going forward, we must continue this conversation in the public sphere in order to ensure that everyone who needs help, can get it with ease.

If you have an issue and you don’t know who to talk to, you can either try friends and family, you could even try co-workers, and if all else fails you can speak to you doctor or even a charity such as the Samaritans, the important thing is to know that there is always someone who you can talk to.