Why aren’t we talking about our Mental Health. Mental Health Issues and Women.

Mental Health: Hi Sweet lifers welcome to What’s Toni Thinking.  Today’s random thought is Why is talking about our Mental Health so taboo?  Even now, with the internet and social media,  we still shy away from talking about our Mental Health.

I know that there are many of us suffering with depression, anxiety, ADHA,  and many other health issues.  Although very common,  it seems that when the topic of Mental Health issues come up,  most people get very tight lipped.   No one wants to admit to having issues or even talk about it.

There are so many of us suffering from the pressures of life and not doing anything to escape them.  Unfortunately,  we just haven’t gotten past the stigma of seeking treatment.

I have shared my experience of seeking professional help in the past and have gotten surprised looks from people.  They just cant’ believe it.

“What? ….. Not you Toni,  but you’re so strong and you have everything together.”

Just because you seek professional help doesn’t mean that you’re weak.   But,  that seems to be the attitude towards Mental Health issues in this culture.  So many of us focus on physical health and completely ignore Mental Health.

Statistics show that women have a greater percentage of psychological distress than others.

Statistics

Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Kessler 6 (K6)

For 2007 K6 data, based on a period of “in the past 30 days.”

• Approximately 40% of persons in 35 states had serious psychological distress (SPD, defined as a score of 10 or more on the K6)
• Of respondents indicating they had SPD:
  • 37.7% received mental health services in the preceding year
  • 53.4% currently received no treatment
  • A greater percentage were likely to be women
  • Were more likely to be unmarried
  • Were more likely to live in poverty

• Medically, respondents with SPD were more likely to be obese, to smoke, and to report being diagnosed with heart disease

(information from the CDC  Data and Statistics Non-specific Psychological Stats) (Data Source: CDC. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 2003-2009)

Super Women

I’m not surprised that women suffer mental health distress in greater numbers.  We are so many things to many people and because we are innate nurtures,  we always put ourselves last.  And let’s not forget the culture we live in today that screams Independence,  Girl Power,  and Superwomen!

[mks_dropcap style=”letter” size=”52″ bg_color=”#ffffff” txt_color=”#000000″]”There’s nothing wrong with being strong and independent,  but if you’re so strong that you are too prideful to ask for help your mental health status may take a turned for the worst.”[/mks_dropcap]

Look,  there’s nothing wrong with any of this,  but if you’re so strong that you are too prideful to ask for help your mental health status may take a turned for the worst.  There is nothing wrong with recognizing when you’re stressed,  acknowledging it,  and taking a break from it all.

Seek Help

We all need some type of outlet.  What are you doing to get a Mental Health break?  Journaling,  Spa Day,  Long Walks,  Sleep, Exercise?   These are all great ways to take a break from the day-to-day hustle and bustle of life.

But,  I want you to know that it is totally ok to talk to a professional.  A professional is great for being able to speak freely about things you may not be able to share with others.  There will be no judgment and he/she can help you organize your thoughts.

It helps!  I can testify to this.

So,  please in this coming year be mindful of how you’re feeling.  When it all seems like to much,  step away from it for a while.  And,  don’t be afraid to seek help from others,  including professionals.

Let’s change the stigma of talking about Mental Health so that more people will be aware of keeping themselves Mentally and Emotionally Healthy.

Until next time,  Be blessed and do everything in your power to Make Life Sweet!

Love,

Toni

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