Despite growing awareness and acceptance of mental health issues, there is still a significant amount of stigma surrounding seeking help for these issues. Many people feel ashamed or embarrassed to admit that they are struggling with their mental health, which can prevent them from getting the help they need. It can be scary and overwhelming but, there is help.
Mental health issues are a common and, in most cases, treatable conditions. Seeking help for these issues is a sign of strength and courage, not weakness. However, the stigma surrounding mental health issues can make it difficult for people to seek help. This stigma can be perpetuated by media portrayals of mental illness, negative stereotypes, and a lack of understanding about these conditions. The stigma may even come from your own family. In some cultures, admitting that you or a family member is frowned upon, often minimized and often mischaracterized.
To overcome this stigma, it's important to start the conversation about mental health and educate others about the realities of these conditions. Seeking help for mental health issues should be seen as a normal and healthy response to a difficult situation, rather than something to be ashamed of. I tell my clients that if you child had cancer or a broken arm, you would seek treatment. The same needs to be so for your or your child’s mental health concerns.
Mental health professionals are trained to provide support and treatment for a range of mental health issues, and seeking their help can be a powerful step toward recovery and healing. Normalize taking care of your WHOLE self and the COMPLETE child, if you have a child dealing with mental health challenges. The sooner you seek help, the sooner you will be on your way to understanding the mental health challenge and tackling it!
You Got This! Let’s kick the stigma!
Euronda Travis, LPC, LSATP
