Most of us have seen the TV commercial of the lady who uses a cardboard smiley face to hide her feelings of depression. Though she appears to be the picture of health and emotional wellness, the smiling face masks her sadness.
How many of us are hiding behind a mask of pretension? Loneliness, grief, pain, anxiety, depression.....the list goes on and can lead to more serious concerns. So, how do we address this, get down to the root of the problem and on the road to emotional wellness?
Please note, I am not a counselor or doctor, but I am a person who realizes the need to bring awareness to the pain of mental health. It’s time to end the stigma and silence associated with what could become an emotional killer.
Mind Right Mondays encourage us to take inventory of our health—our physical health and our mental health. We should also remind ourselves to look out for our fellow sisters. Like on the commercial, the person behind a smiling face could be in danger.
So, check up on your friends and family members. Regularly ask questions like, “Are You Ok?”; “How is your day going? “; “Do you want to talk?; “What can I do to help?” Then, demonstrate your sincerity by waiting patiently for their response and having a listening ear.
If this person is you, reach out to a trusted friend, loved one or even your Pastor. For most Christians, prayer is a go to resource. Truth is, in addition to prayer, the help of a doctor or mental health professional could be needed. It is very likely that your health insurer has a hotline that offers assistance and support. If those are not viable options, the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) affiliate in your area can be a great resource to direct you in a time of need.
Help is available.
Challenge:
- Take charge of your health
- Look out for your sister
- Seek help as needed NAMI
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