Life is a roller coaster, full of ups and downs. But let’s be honest, we often focus on the ups when we share stories, pictures, and videos. The lows, on the other hand, rarely get the spotlight in our conversations or social media feeds. We tend to keep our emotional struggles as dirty little secrets, too embarrassed to talk about them.

Despite being interconnected through technology and social media, there’s a danger in solely focusing on everyone’s “highlight reels” and using that as a benchmark to compare ourselves and our emotional well-being. These unbalanced narratives can feed feelings of inadequacy, separateness, and despair, especially when we forget to put things in perspective. It’s important to remember that more people than you might imagine are grappling with their emotional health, and our collective silence isn’t helping.

Just think about the fact that 45 million people have Googled “How to be happy.” Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the US for all age groups, with one death occurring every 12 minutes. Depression affects about 20-25% of Americans aged 18 and above each year, yet only half of them receive treatment. But here’s some good news: 80% to 90% of people who seek treatment for depression see successful results through therapy and/or medication.

No one is perfect. No one’s life, no matter how picture-perfect it seems, is all sunshine and roses 100% of the time. We all experience moments of darkness, loss, fear, and loneliness. It’s time for us to start opening up and honestly addressing our emotional well-being. None of us is immune. So, why is there still a stigma around discussing mental health issues, anxiety, depression, or suicide?

When you’re trapped in the deep, dark hole of anxiety or depression, your entire world distorts. Negative thoughts play on a loop in your head, and you gradually withdraw deeper into self-abuse. It can be difficult to admit our pain to ourselves, let alone share and talk about how we truly feel. Without intervention, the self-destructive cycle continues, sometimes until it breaks us.

I’ll never forget the words my father spoke when I was just 13 years old. We sat on the kitchen floor surrounded by broken dishes and food scattered from the refrigerator, which my mother had thrown in a fit of rage. Tears welled up in his eyes as he looked at me and confessed, “Don’t love me – I’m not worth it.” Sadly, not long after, he took his own life.

Reflecting on that heartbreaking moment now, it’s clear that there were warning signs we missed. In fact, 80% of people who attempt suicide show these signs. At the time, I was too young to fully understand the complexities of my dad’s mental state. But looking back, it’s apparent that his loved ones recognized the signs we overlooked. It’s crucial not to ignore these struggles in ourselves or in others:

– Difficulty concentrating

– Excessive fears, worries, or feelings of guilt

– Extreme mood swings – highs and lows

– Withdrawing from friends and activities

– Fatigue, low energy, and sleep troubles

– Inability to cope with everyday problems and stresses

– Changes in appetite and eating habits

– Anger, hostility, or violent behavior

– Neglecting personal hygiene or appearance

When fear consumes us, the only way to break its powerful grip on our minds is to confront our emotional health issues head-on.

We often hesitate to talk about our personal lows out of fear and embarrassment, keeping our feelings locked away to avoid burdening others.

But let me tell you, if you notice someone struggling, do them a favor. Lift the weight from their shoulders by initiating a conversation about emotional well-being. Be straightforward and compassionate.

And here’s a crucial reminder: Say YES to therapy! Therapy has successful outcomes for 80%-90% of people seeking treatment for depression. So, what are you waiting for? Seeking professional help should be a no-brainer with those odds! Don’t let excuses hold you back – there are numerous fantastic resources out there.

Here are some hotlines you can contact:

– National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 or TTY: 1-800-799-4889

– Suicide.org offers 24-hour email support for individuals feeling suicidal

Finding a therapist or mental health center is also crucial. Here are a few places to start:

– The U.S. Department of Health and Human Resources provides a listing of free clinics in your area – simply enter your location.

– The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) can offer information on treatment options or mental health care in your vicinity. Call them toll-free at 1-800-950-NAMI or visit their website.

– SAMHSA, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, is here to help. They offer a 24/7 helpline, also known as the Treatment Referral Routing Service, providing confidential support in both English and Spanish. No matter if you or your loved ones face mental health or substance use disorders, they can refer you to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community organizations. Let’s create a safe space where we can be vulnerable, authentic, and real. Share your struggles openly and honestly to let others know they’re not alone. Remember, even in tough times, keep telling yourself and those you care about:

YOU WILL GET THROUGH THIS

LIFE WILL GET BETTER

Say it with confidence, and keep saying it until it becomes your reality.