02/03/2022
It’s time.
It’s time we start taking about mental health without feeling embarrassed and ashamed. Just like we talk about diabetes, heart disease, or cancer. Every single one of us knows someone who suffers or we suffer ourselves. No one is shielded from this. No one.
It’s time we normalize antidepressants, therapy, and psychiatric diagnoses. It’s ok to need help. It’s not a black mark on our abilities and presence. We should encourage one another to get the help we need, early on. Before we get to this place of no return.
It’s time we stop portraying ourselves in such unrealistic ways, like little balls of perfection. Our lives are not always surrounded by blissful backdrops or always built on moments of joy. We create a world of unrealistic expectations. The mess that we often find our lives and brains in, is normal.
It’s time we really talk to one another, not about the weather, but about life, pain, and raw emotions. Go to dinner and dive deep. Call a friend and ask them how they are feeling. Ask them to share one thing that makes them happy and one that makes them sad. Really listen to their responses. Talk it through. There is strength in validation and expression.
It’s time we show each other our real selves. Make-up less in sweatpants. Overwhelmed and tired. Sometimes for 3 days in a row. Let your dirty laundry and dishes fly when people come over. Leave your blankets unfolded on the couch in photos. Show up for others as you are, so that they can do the same with you.
It’s time we speak kindly to one another. Despite our differences. It’s literally free. You never know how far a kind word or smile can carry someone who is in pain. It’s true that you never know what someone else is dealing with. Just look at these faces. People suffer in silence. Kindness is always the answer.
It’s time we realize the significant risk. Su***de is the second leading cause of death is people ages 10-34. Read it again. The SECOND leading cause of death. One death every 11 minutes. This is us, me, you, our kids, our friends, our neighbors, our nieces and nephews.
It’s time we get comfortable with the uncomfortable.
It’s time to realize the magic of leaning.