We talk about physical health all the time. From "where's your blood pressure/cholesterol/sugar at?" and "get your steps in", to "eat your kimchi".
However, it's much harder to talk about mental health even though a quarter of the population may be diagnosed with a mental illness at some point in their lives.
Look around, that's one in four people in your office, your classroom, your family.
We think that makes mental illness a conversation starter. Lets's dive in with suicide and depression.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), South Africa has the sixth highest rate of suicide in Africa, with data revealing that approximately 11.6 of every 100 000 people in the country commit suicide. It is commonly accepted and understood that most suicides and suicide attempts occur among individuals who suffer from undiagnosed and untreated depression. The WHO estimates that more than 300 million people are affected by depression worldwide. That's an immense number of people!
We need to understand that depression is a medical condition that can be diagnosed and treated.
Some of the signs and symptoms of depression include problems concentrating, remembering details, making decisions, fatigue, feelings of guilt, hopelessness, insomnia, irritability, restlessness, loss of interest in things once pleasurable, overeating or appetite loss, persistent feelings of sadness, and suicidal thoughts.
If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is advisable to seek professional help. Despite the stigma around depression, these symptoms do not make you weak, or a coward, it means that you have an illness. One that can be treated. Once again Brene Brown comes to mind with, "what we don't need in the midst of struggle is shame for being human". Your life story and experiences are unique to you and reaching out for help is the first step to ensure that you get the assistance, therapy, and medication that you need to live a more fulfilling life. No shame, no stigma, but being able to embrace all aspects of our humanity.
Connect with @thinkelevate and lets get this conversation started.
+ Acknowledgements: www.brenebrown.com
