I'm a big fan of mental health. I have absolutely no problem admitting I need to consult a therapist and have done so repeatedly throughout my twenties and thirties whenever I felt it was necessary. I would go so far as to say, that I feel even mentally healthy people should talk to a non-biased mental or spiritual guide (therapist, minister, AA group) on a fairly regular basis. And if after therapy your doctor determines that some medication is needed then I'm all for that too.
So you can imagine how irritating I find it when people still think that getting psychological help is a sign of some sort of weakness. I think it's weak to drink your problems away or take out your unhealthy rage on your family members, or find some other unhealthy outlet to try and dump your illness into.
I find it curious that people would not hesitate to see a doctor if one of their other major organs was malfunctioning. Or see a specialist if they contracted some life threatening illness. And although it's commendable to start eating well and excersing, don't our minds deserve the same kind of looking after? If we wait until it becomes a new fad I'm afraid we'll continue down this destructive path the world has been on.
Hi there.. good post. I too go to a doc..etc. I'm bipolar.
ReplyDeleteBravo, Kim! This is an important and honest post. I think it is very helpful for everyone to seek out another person for guidance and support. We are all supposed to work so hard at keeping our bodies physically fit. And we all know how exhausting that is :) Our minds all deserve some TLC. I think I should pay all my blogging friends for all this free "therapy':)
ReplyDeleteFirst how funny to see that a Viv posted a comment. My first thought? "I don't remember writing that!?"
ReplyDeletePerfect segue to: yes, mental health is incredibly important. We are under so much pressure (all of us, kids too) and have so much to do that we can make ourselves sick from stress. I see a therapist to remind me that I am the only one who puts the added pressure of "SuperWoman" on myself.
I'm trying hard to be OK with mediocrity...
I agree, whole heartedly.. well said. I'm a huge proponent of this as well, and it's not always easy for us (as women, as moms) to solicit help since we're supposed to "help" everyone else.
ReplyDeleteBut that's exactly what I had to do when my husband was traveling 100% of the time for work.. and it really helped me. A lot.
I agree. I just wish it weren't so expensive. :-)
ReplyDeletevery good post
ReplyDeletekisses and hugs
I'm saddened that mental health is still not viewed as important as physical health.
ReplyDeleteWe all certainly need to give our minds a little more caring. Thanks for the reminder.
You are the most sensible, lovely girl. I agree! of course, you are absolutely correct.xx♥
ReplyDeleteTotally agree with you. People don't understand that your brain can have certain imbalances that require leveling - sometimes medication is neccessary. My step mother is clinically bipolar and she suffered (and we suffered) for years without knowing why she acted the way she did. Her medicine has been a life-saver.
ReplyDeleteAnd talking things out with an unbiased person is never a bad idea... way to stand up for what you believe in, Kim. :)
I agree. And it's so interesting how so many very smart people disagree. One of the smartest men I know wouldn't go to a shrink because he's afraid it would affect his 'permanent record'. ?!?!
ReplyDeletewell said! many people think if they see a shrink they are labeled crazy. at least they are getting help! and yes we all should take care of our mental health. thank you for this post, it was very refreshing.
ReplyDeleteI think it takes a strong person, not a weak one, to get help or to talk to someone about what's going on.
ReplyDelete:)
~Tabitha~
freshmommyblog.com
i hate going to any kind of medical doctor, and i have never been able to bring myself to see a shrink or a counselor or whatever you want to call them. i'll admit that it is a fear-based thing. i just can't handle the thought of telling someone my probs and having them get in my head. i know this is wrong, but i am not sure i'll ever be able to change even if it would most likely be for the best.
ReplyDeleteA very thoughtful and thought-provoking post! Thanks for sharing! ~Janine
ReplyDeleteHi. I linked here from Mervat's site. I liked the comments you made there.
ReplyDeleteYou make good points here. I, too, think that seeking help in any area of our lives - physically, emotionally, spiritually, etc. - is appropriate and wise.
Many people today are disconnected from other people. Technology has taken the place of personal, warm conversation and connection. Many people are lonely, and don't receive positive and helpful mentoring from healthy adults. I think these are contributing factors to having emotional and spiritual problems. Going to a counselor may proved this person with the first real, meaningful conversation for them in years.
Good post.
Good for you!! Amen. totally agree with you!
ReplyDeleteWell said Kim. I totally agree. I am happy to say that I take care of my mind and heart by seeking support from another lady named "Kim" when I need to! :)
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