Prioritizing Mental Health: Break the Stigma

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May is Mental Health Awareness Month. This is a time to acknowledge and and discuss the importance of our mental health and well-being. Mental Health is a crucial part of our health, but it’s often neglected and stigmatized in our society. The COVID-19 Pandemic only made the mental health crisis even worse. It increased levels of stress, anxiety and depression. This Mental Health Awareness Month it is important to focus on mental health and break the stigma around seeking therapy.

Topic Of Discussion

The Importance of Mental Health

Mental Health refers to our emotional, psychological, social, spiritual and cultural well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and behave. It plays a significant role in our ability to cope with stress, build relationships, and make decisions. Good mental health is essential for over all health and well-being. And it is as important as our physical health. Mental health problems are common and affect millions of people around the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in four people will experience mental health problems in their lives. Mental Health problems can range from mild to severe. They can impact various aspects of our lives. This may include work, relationships and daily activities.

Mental Health Stigma

Despite the prevalence of mental health problems, there is still a stigma attached to seeking help. The stigma around mental health can prevent individuals from receiving the the help they need. This could lead to prolonged suffering and potentially cause symptoms to become worse. The stigma can come from a variety of sources, such as societal beliefs, cultural norms, personal biases.

Breaking the Stigma

Breaking the stigma surrounding mental health is crucial. This would help ensure people feel comfortable seeking help when they need it. This Mental Health Awareness Month, we need to to raise awareness of mental health problems. We also need to educate the public about the importance of seeking help.

One of the most effective ways of breaking the stigma is to start conversations about mental health. By talking openly about mental health, we can reduce the feelings of fear and shame around seeking help. It is vital to encourage open and honest discussions mental health with friends, family members, and colleagues.

Another way to break the stigma is to seek therapy. Therapy is a safe and effective way to address mental health concerns. It can also help individuals learn coping skills, build resilience, and improve their overall quality of life. Seeking therapy can also help individuals realize they are not alone in their struggles, and it is okay to ask for help.

Therapy for Mental Health

Therapy is a type of treatment that involves talking to a trained professional about mental health concerns. Therapists can help individuals understand their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. During therapy, individuals develop coping skills to manage their symptoms. Therapy can also help individuals identify negative thought patterns and behaviors. A therapist can also help develop strategies to replace them with positive ones. Therapy can take many different forms depending on a person’s unique needs, including:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
  • Couples/Family Therapy
  • Brainspotting (BSP)
  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
  • Person Centered Therapy

Therapy can be effective for a variety of situations. A 2019 review found that therapy was helpful across several problem areas. The review also suggested that routine therapy was especially helpful for those who had severe distress.

Therapy can benefit individuals with a range of mental health problems. This might include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It can also be beneficial for individuals experiencing stress related to work or family issues.

How effective therapy is will depend on you, your unique needs, and how much work you do between and during sessions. You can also see a therapist for only a few sessions or longer, depending on your needs.

How to Find a Therapist

Finding the right therapist can be a daunting task, but it is essential to find a therapist that is a good fit. There are various ways to find a therapist, including:

  • Referrals from friends, family, and colleagues
  • Online directories for licensed therapists like Psychology Today or Alma
  • Referrals from primary care physicians or mental health clinics
  • Insurance provider directories

Conclusion

Mental health is an essential part of our overall health and well-being, yet often neglected and stigmatized by society. This Mental Health Awareness Month it is crucial to prioritize mental health and break the stigma around seeking therapy. Therapy can help individuals develop coping skills, build resilience, and improve their quality of life.

If you are struggling with some mental health concerns, schedule a therapy session with Tri-Star Counseling. Our team of therapists are dedicated to helping individuals address there mental health concerns in a safe and supportive environment. Don’t let the stigma around mental health prevent you from seeking the help you need. Together, we can break the stigma and prioritize mental health.

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