Are you, or maybe a loved one, struggling with mental health issues and have a difficult time confiding in friends and family due to the stigma?
Being diagnosed with any disease can be hard, but being diagnosed with a mental illness can be particularly devastating to deal with. You might wonder why this has happened to you or to someone close to you, and how this diagnosis will affect day to day living. But, even more so, how will other people react to the diagnosis?
Truth is people with mental illnesses are challenged doubly. On one hand, they struggle with the symptoms and often debilitating effects of the disease; on the other hand they are challenged by the stereotypes and prejudice that result from misconceptions about mental illness.
Yes, stigma is one of the most challenging aspects of dealing with a mental health condition. It causes people to feel ashamed for something that is out of their control and prevents many from seeking the help that they desperately need.
Mental illness touches so many lives and yet, it’s still a giant “secret.” A special Sunday Times investigation revealed that 17 million people in South Africa are dealing with depression, substance abuse, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. And yes, studies show that three out of four people with a mental illness have reported that they, or their families, have experienced stigma. So no, remember that you are definitely not alone!
But, how do you move from: “Why me”, to “What now”? Or, how could you help a loved one with a mental illness to take the next step?
Remember, a mental illness is not a character flaw. It is caused by genetic, biological, social, and environmental factors. Seeking and accepting help from a professional; whether you or someone close to you are suffering from a mental illness, is a sign of strength, not of weakness. Now Fedhealth members can get mental health support with the Panda app. Get the support you need by clicking here: https://www.fedhealth.co.za/mental-health-support-at-your-fingertips-with-the-panda-app/
www.psychologytoday.com, www.mayoclinic.org, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, www.mentalhealth.wa.go.au, www.ulifeline.org, www.webmd.com, www.huffingtonpost.com, www.nami.org, myclevelandclinic.org, www.sadag.org, www.timeslive.co.za, www.heretohelp.bc.ca
DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.