Today is ‘time to talk’ about Mental health day in the U.K. Run by various Mental health charities, the campaigners goal is to encourage people to become more open about talking about Mental health issues, and ultimately putting an end to the discrimination that sufferer’s face on a daily basis as a direct result of their mental illness. This is a cause close to my heart, after struggling myself for a decade I recently spoke out for the first time about the impact my problems were having on my mental health. Unfortunately, in the past I have been stigmatized; being told to ‘snap out’ of my depression. Although mental illnesses are not visible, they most definitely are illnesses and should be recognized as such. Depression is the result of a chemical imbalance in the brain; therefore, it is not something I, or any other sufferer’s have the power to control.
Shockingly, 1 in 10 people who suffer from mental health issues have reported to being treated in a negative manner due to their illness at least once a day. No one would dream of stigmatizing or discriminating against a person with cancer or diabetes, so why should sufferer’s of mental illnesses be treated any differently? Personally, I have had to endure taunts as a result of my depression, so I know first hand how damaging these can be to the recovery process. It really is paramount that people engage in conversations and educate people in order to end this discrimination. Moreover, just like other illnesses anyone can be affected. Outwardly I am a successful individual; I have a good degree, work in a hospital and have a great stable relationship, yet I have been diagnosed with both depression and a personality disorder. According to statistics 1 in 4 people in one year will experience a mental health problem.
The turning point in my life came when I finally opened up to someone about my mood and behavior. The nurse I confided in recognized the severity of my depression and sought immediate help for me. She put me in touch with trained mental healthcare professionals who did everything in their power to help me get better. It wasn't easy for me to talk about such personal issues, but it was the first step of my journey into recovery and life has been much brighter thanks to the help and support I have received.
I am thrilled that the ‘time to change’ campaign and other health charities are highlighting the importance of talking about mental health. The taboo has persisted for far too long and now it is time to put a stop to it. So please, take time today to talk and listen to a friend, colleague, family member or even a stranger about mental health. Even something as simple as asking someone ‘how are you doing today?’ could save someone who is suffering in silence.
Amy xoxo