Overcoming Mental Health Disabilities
Living with a mental disability is a daunting experience shared by millions of people globally. Unfortunately, most of them are ashamed of their stories due to the negative stereotype, beliefs, negative attitudes, discrimination, and stigma they are subjected to on a daily basis. Frankly speaking; it takes a very determined, courageous, and strong-willed individual to overcome the many challenges of mental health disabilities. Embarking on this journey will, of course, need the whole of you at all times. You’ll obviously encounter numerous hurdles along the way, but you must keep focusing on where you want to be. And guess what? You can make it and make a difference, if only you believe in yourself.
Here are 5 things that you must do to overcome your condition successfully
1. Accept yourself.
Self-acceptance is the key to accomplishing substantial progress as a mental health victim. Accepting yourself is the beginning of a beautiful journey to making the best out of your life. Familiarizing yourself with your disorder makes your life much easier in so many interesting ways. For instance; it empowers you to stand up against societal stigmatization. In addition, taking this bold step makes it easier to deal with unpredictable situations such as when true friends start showing their true colors. Some will obviously desert you after making their own assumptions that you no longer fit in their circles while real ones will stay. Regardless of what you are going through, always remember that self-acceptance is all about the change of your mind frame.
2. Get treatment and take your medication faithfully.
Reluctance to seek treatment is the greatest recipe for self-destruction. You’ve got to admit that you need medical assistance if you are to overcome your disorder. Don’t hide in fear of what people will say. With the right treatment and medication, you can achieve whatever you’ve always dreamt of accomplishing. Don’t be fooled by their smartness in the streets, millions of people globally overcome their anxiety and depression among other mental illnesses through medication. Don’t be the reason why your situation does not change for the best.
3. Journal Writing
Mental illness is nothing but a normal medical condition. Having said that; there is no reason whatsoever why you should spend the entire day mourning about your condition. Consider buying a journal and vent your frustrations via the pen. Writing down what is in your mind and heart can boost your healing progress tremendously. Jotting down your experiences and challenges could open new doors to greater things ahead.
4. Therapy
Whilst most people with mental illnesses steer clear of therapy for fear of being harshly judged and misunderstood, talking to a reputable professional can be a plus for you. Don’t ever allow your inner fears to put a leash on you. Find a good therapist who is understanding, patient, reliable, and easy to talk to and you’ll gradually find it extremely helpful.
5. Join support groups.
Expanding your network is one of the most beautiful ways of overcoming mental illness. Joining hands with people who are like-minded and experiencing the same dilemmas can be a great move. Support groups can easily help you learn how to overcome the stigma that is affiliated with shame and self-doubt, avoid loneliness, educate & create awareness on mental health or even get you the right help from highly qualified professionals.
Conclusion
Living with a mental health disability does not mean you’re dangerous, insane, or crazy so don’t waste your precious time feeling sorry for yourself. Take it easy on yourself since it’s just a health condition and not your fault. Do what you need to do to overcome your challenge and live your life to the fullest.
Psychologist Nhu Nguyen
Nhu Nguyen is a Registered Psychologist (AHPRA) with experience treating individuals in a wide range of mental health settings. On her days off, she shares her knowledge of mental health by creating online mental health and lifestyle resources.
