Mental Illness: It's A Family Affair (Day 6)
Become An Advocate
Mental health encompasses our emotional health, cognitive health and relationships. It includes taking care of and protecting ourselves so we can succeed in everyday life, taking care of others when they need us the most and overcoming obstacles. In other words, mental health is essential, and worth advocating for.
If we want to be advocates for those who are struggling with their mental health, we must first learn to be advocates for ourselves. This means being true to ourselves, loving ourselves and honoring ourselves, regardless of what our struggles are.
What Is A Mental Health Advocate?
Mental health advocates are heroes — individuals who do not wear capes, but who work tirelessly every day to share their stories and help those who are struggling. They take risks and show their vulnerability by telling their truth in hopes of encouraging someone else.
Whether it is through a blog, social media, a book or a speaking engagement, these advocates stand up for others who do not have a voice. They remind us that we are not alone in our struggles. They remind us that we are not at fault. They remind us that there is light, healing and hope throughout this journey. They shatter stereotypes and stigma associated with mental illness.
How Can I Become An Advocate?
You do not have to share your deepest darkest secrets on social media to become an advocate. You can stand up for others by sharing your story privately with a friend, neighbor or loved one. You also don’t have to share your story if you’re not yet ready. You can also:
- Support someone who needs help
- Volunteer for a local mental health organization
- Attend an awareness walk or other event benefitting the mental health movement
- Encourage your local politicians to prioritize mental health
- Correct those who use stigmatizing language
Together, we can change how the world views mental health. We can continue the mental health movement by speaking out, sharing our stories and showing others that they are not alone. Our societal perception of mental health, including mental illness, will not change if we do not take action to change it ourselves.
Today's information is courtesy of the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI).
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You are invited to join us for this month's AWOGI discussion: Mental Illness: It's A Family Affair on Saturday, October 14 at 10am via zoom.
Click Family Affair to access the zoom meeting link.
TOGETHER, We Care and We Share.