The
month of May is Mental Health Awareness Month and I would be remiss if I did
not acknowledge it because millions of people, as well as myself, combat mental
health diseases every day. Enduring mental health disease has been a rough road
for us however it can be done. I want people to understand that life does not
come to an end just because you have a mental disease. I am a living witness
that you can have a quality life while sustaining your disease.
What I have found to be effective and most helpful
over the years, is to have a community of health care professionals, family
members, loved ones and friends surrounding me at all times. If you do not have
a health care professional that can treat your disease it should be a priority
that you find one. You can find a health care professional, whether it be a
licensed counselor, social worker, therapist, psychologist even psychiatrist,
without having health insurance or low income. It is imperative that you have
professionals in place to diagnosis, treat, and monitor your mental disease so
that you do not hurt yourself or others. Most cities across the US have a local
mental health department that can assist you with little financial burden. For instance,
in Columbus, Ohio for Franklin County NetCare Access can help you in a crisis
and get you set up with the professionals. Other places have organizations to
aid you and refer you to the best match for your needs.
While you are researching your health care options
you should take a good look around your inner circle of family, loved ones and
friends because they are the ones who know you best. They can assist you with
finding a professional who has your best interest at heart and advise them on
things that you may not be able to advise them on. For instance, when I had my
first Bipolar episode my mother and sister had to take over the reins. I was
not healthy enough to help myself and they were a godsend. So, be sure your
inner circle has your back and best interest in mind. You don’t want anyone who
will enable you and encourage you to stop/refuse medications, treatment or
therapy because those the three entities will be your life saver.
Now, I know there is a lot of stigmatism
associated with mental disease, especially with everyone running to the conclusion
that the people who commit mass murders have these issues versus being the
epitome of evil. However, having a mental health disease is not wicked and does
not stop life from going on. It should not give anyone the insecurity that they
are not worthy of being treated with respect and love. I have had people in my
past, even those in my inner circle, who I have discontinued being in a
relationship with because they thought they could get over on me because of my disease.
That included friends, lovers and even clergy members. I know it’s tough out
here in the world, but our mental disease, which is our cross to bear, is not
any different from living with a physical ailment such as diabetes or sickle cell
anemia.
In conclusion my post today is just to give
recognition to a disease that deserves to be taken seriously and not thrown
around to aid political juggernauts in creating fear throughout the world. People
living with real mental disease are not malicious, vile or revolting. We are
every day citizens who go to work or school and contribute to our communities.
We are not monsters, but real people who have feelings and should be treated
with as much respect as anyone else. If you know someone in your circle who is
living with a mental health disease give them a hug today and let them know that
they matter to you and you love them.
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