How many times have you encountered people downplaying the importance of mental health? How many times have you thought that getting psychotherapy or counseling is a bad idea because you might be shunned?
Never? Many times?
Well, the thing is that mental health is often seen negatively in our society. Despite the obvious importance of mental care and the realness of mental illnesses, many still fail to grasp why we should talk about mental health. Often, people who share their struggles are dubbed as attention-seekers, crazy, or inferior.
Because of this, instead of talking to a therapist, these individuals hold their distress until they couldn’t take it anymore. And what’s the result? More often than not, they become overwhelmed, incapacitated, and sometimes suicidal.
We can all play a role in preventing the negative impacts of mental health stigma. By changing how we perceive mental health and seeing it for what it really is, an illness, then we can help change the lives of people who are struggling with mental health issues – whether that person is you or someone else. By changing our perception of mental health, we are helping someone survive to see a better future.
At Shirley Court Gonzalez LCSW BCD, our mission is to provide high-quality mental health service in New Jersey. We aim to make a positive difference in the lives of people struggling with behavioral and mental health issues.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you need help.