Three Words to Help You Through Mental Illness
Whether you have managed a mental health condition for several years or are facing it for the first time, it can be difficult to know how to talk with others about what you are going through. Although medical professionals may describe it in complicated clinical terms, these fail to describe the difficult emotions and thoughts you face.
For many people dealing with mental health issues, three simple words are all they require to communicate their condition with others: “I need help.”
Why These Words are So Important
The phrase “I need help” is simple, but it tells the listener a great deal while unburdening the deliverer. These words are powerful for several reasons, including:
- They help you articulate your struggle. Silence can feel powerless, particularly when you’re alone. Acknowledging out loud how you are feeling brings it into the open, allowing you to own and address your condition.
- They raise awareness. In this busy day and age, many people are too preoccupied with their own lives to recognize the signs of mental illness in others. Simply telling someone what you need can snap him or her out of their stupor and help them be there for you.
- They reveal the other person’s character. It’s best to know whether or not a friend or family member will come through when you need them most. Although asking for help risks rejection or misunderstanding, it can also show what a strong support system you have.
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Why it’s Hard to Ask for Help
For many people, addressing mental health issues with others is difficult. This is normal, especially when facing or acknowledging a struggle for the first time. Common fears among those considering mental health treatment include:
- Rejection. Although unlikely, the possibility exists that your recipient will not respond in a helpful or sympathetic way. When this happens, it is important not to give up – someone else in your life will surely react more compassionately.
- Embarrassment. Even if a loved one is able and willing to help, some individuals with mental illnesses experience a sense of shame when admitting their conditions to others. However, seeking assistance isn’t a sign of weakness or failure – it indicates determination and strength.
- Misperception. Communicating a mental health issue doesn’t mean the other person will think you are “crazy” or dangerous. Mental health exists on a spectrum, and most individuals understand this.
At Bridges to Recovery, we are here to help whenever you need us. We provide the compassionate care our patients require to help them overcome depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Contact us today to discover which of our treatment options are available to you.