Mental Health Month raises awareness of trauma and the impact it can have on the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of children, families, and communities. We need to keep spreading awareness of the importance of mental health and wellness and celebrate recovery from mental illness. Mental health is essential for a person’s overall health.
My short story
I was diagnosed with severe depression in 2015 and started my recovery journey in June 2015 and I was admitted to a mental health institution. I remember on my way to the institution I felt extremely ashamed and thought to myself, what will the people say? I got there and I almost immediately loved the environment, however, I still kept it a secret where I was. The day I decided to let go of seeking validation and acceptance from society was actually the time my true healing journey began, I let go and let God during my journey.
I no longer pretended nor felt ashamed of what I went through, which felt like a heavy burden had been lifted off my shoulders, literally! And when I’ve shared my journey with others the more freeing I felt.
Today I love speaking it, wearing it, and owning my truth, and that is absolutely liberating knowing that my story and truth may help someone along the way.
We have to continue highlighting the importance of understanding both the prevention and treatment of mental health problems. These efforts have significantly improved the outlook for those affected by mental illnesses.
It is absolutely important to promote acceptance, support, prevention, and recovery from these mental health conditions. Mental Health Month gives all of us a valuable opportunity to celebrate the tremendous strides our Nation has made in promoting mental health and increasing the public’s knowledge that effective services and support are available.
It remains a daily work in progress and I’ve learned to be gentle with myself during the journey. I had to remind myself that mental health is not a personal failure. Prevention works, treatment is effective, and people can recover from mental disorders and live full and productive lives.
Let’s get rid of the fear and talk about Mental Health!!!
‘We were born to tell our stories’
#SpeakIt #WearIt #OwnIt #YourTruth
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Real-Raw-Rare
Love
Written by: Udéne Jordan