By Contributing Writer
Mental health can be difficult to understand. Taking care of one’s own mental health is even harder, especially with the pressures of daily life. When it comes to depression, particularly in middle-class homes, children often face dismissive responses like, “What do you have to be sad about?” and “Depression isn’t real.”
In Greek mythology, there’s an ancient story of a person named Sisyphus. He was sentenced to push an immense boulder up a hill, only for it to roll back down every time he neared the top, for all eternity. This is what it feels like when your mind constantly tricks you into feeling off balance. The struggle of wanting to feel and do better, but being unable to, and then feeling disappointment after realizing all your efforts got you nowhere, is the cycle of depression.
Mental fortitude is important, but sometimes, without the proper help and support, it feels nearly impossible. If you notice signs of a loved one starting to fight an uphill battle, offer support where you can. Simply observing from the sidelines allows you to see the game, but not understand how the players feel.
Mental health matters. You can scrub the grime at the top, but there will still be dirt at the bottom. In a world where physical attributes can seemingly get you further, the truth lies in your mind.
Take care of yourself, and know that you and your loved ones are not alone. If you’re dealing with it now, remember that generations before you had to overcome the same thing in even harder times. You can do it. Keep up hope.
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether it’s talking to a friend, family member or a mental health professional, reaching out can make a significant difference. By breaking the silence and stigma around mental health, we pave the way for a more understanding and supportive world. Let’s work together to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive mentally and emotionally.
