Hey there, everyone!
Today, on World Mental Health Day, I want to share a piece of my heart with you.
As someone who has been in a constant battle with my mind, I dedicate this post with the hope that it will inspire others.
For as long as I can remember, I've been struggling with an uncomfortable issue. Without knowing that I was suffering from Depression and Anxiety at a young age, I thought it was just a flaw in me. Knowing that this uncomfortable topic bothers everyone and that no one really likes it when you're negative. The fear of the usual words, "relax," "what are you worried about," "you have nothing to cry about," "try harder," those words filled with incomprehension are what kept me "HOLDING ON," until it was almost too late.
But this same condition, ironically, inspired me to design Ebisu & Co. I wanted to create a space where others could find resources and tools to support their mental health. And most importantly, I wanted to break the stigma that seeking help is a sign of weakness. It's a brave act that can lead to healing and growth. Remember, you are not alone in this battle. There is help available and there is hope for a better future.
Let’s have a heart-to-heart about the cultural awareness surrounding mental health.
As someone who's been on this mental health journey for a while, I've learned a thing or two. Let's talk about something that affects us all, no matter where we're from: mental health.
Just like a rainbow has a bunch of different colors, cultures around the world are as diverse as they come. And just as each color has its own beauty, so do different cultures have their own unique perspectives.
When it comes to mental health, these differences can be pretty big. Some cultures might see mental health challenges as something to be ashamed of, while others are more understanding. Remember, these cultural differences can shape how people feel about their mental health and how they talk about it.
By understanding these differences, we can create a more welcoming and supportive space for everyone, no matter where they're from or what they're going through.
Here's something to think about:
Stigma can be a roadblock:
Imagine walking down a street with a broken leg, limping visibly. People might offer you a helping hand, or ask if you need assistance. Now imagine that instead of a broken leg, you're carrying the invisible weight of a mental health condition. The stigma surrounding these conditions can make it feel like you're walking alone, limping through life, afraid to ask for help or reveal your pain.
Culture can influence how we express ourselves:
Imagine juggling a stressful project at work and feeling overwhelmed. It's a tough situation, and how you handle it might depend on where you're from. In some cultures, you might feel comfortable sharing your feelings with friends and family, seeking their support. But in others, you might keep your troubles to yourself, worried about burdening others or being seen as weak.
Now, picture yourself sitting at your desk, your heart racing, your mind racing. Anxiety is taking over, making it hard to focus or even hold a pen. In some cultures, you might feel comfortable talking to your boss about your anxiety and asking for help. But in others, you might fear that disclosing your mental health condition could put your job at risk.
Finally, imagine feeling a deep sadness that seems to consume your entire life. You isolate yourself, finding it hard to enjoy things you once loved. In some cultures, you might feel comfortable seeking help from a therapist or counselor. But in others, you might turn to traditional healing practices or rely on family for support.
As you can see, the way we handle mental health challenges can vary greatly across cultures. It's important to remember that there's no one-size-fits-all approach. The best way to cope is to find what works best for you, considering your cultural background and personal preferences.
Think about it this way:
Your mental health is like your invisible health. Just like you wouldn't ignore a broken leg or a fever, you shouldn't ignore your mental health.
Your mental health affects how you think, feel, and behave. It's like the engine that drives your life. When your mental health is running smoothly, you can handle life's ups and downs, connect with others, and achieve your dreams. But when it's not, it can feel like you're driving a car with a flat tire.
Imagine trying to go about your day with a constant headache or a nagging pain in your back. It's tough, right? Well, mental health conditions can be just as debilitating. They can make it hard to concentrate, to sleep, to even get out of bed. That's why it's so important to take care of your mental health, just like you would take care of your physical health.
Treatment can help:
Just like you'd take medicine for a physical illness, there are ways to treat mental health conditions. Therapy can be a great place to start. It's like talking to a friend who understands what you're going through, but without the judgment. Sometimes, medication can also help. It's like putting a bandage on a wound, giving your brain a chance to heal. And remember, you don't have to choose between therapy and medication. Sometimes, a combination of both can work wonders.
While you're finding what works best for you, there are some quick techniques you can try to support yourself. One of my favorites is the 5-4-3-2-1 technique. It helps to ground you in the present moment and calm your mind.
Here's how it works:
Identify five things you can see: Look around and name five objects.
Identify four things you can touch: Feel the texture of objects around you.
Identify three things you can hear: Listen to the sounds around you.
Identify two things you can smell: Take a deep breath and notice any scents.
Identify one thing you can taste: If possible, taste something to focus your attention.
This technique can help you stay present and reduce feelings of anxiety. Remember, finding the right treatment takes time. Be patient with yourself and keep trying new things until you find what works best.
Thanks for taking the time to check this out. At Ebisu & Co., we're all about mental health and living with intention. That's why we're creating a new journal that's more than just a notebook, it's a coping tool. We're using the 5-4-3-2-1 technique to help you stay grounded and focused. We're super excited to share it with you soon and hope it enables you to find your purpose.
Until next time,
Yasbek
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