Restoring my soul.

What comes to mind when I say “mental illness”? Do you see a movie theatre rendition of “A Beautiful mind” or picture a psychopathic killer.  Or as is more likely the case a seemingly functioning person who appears to “have it all” and is reasonably happy?  According to SANE Australia at least 45% of us will experience mental illness in our lifetime and 20% of Australians are currently effected.

In our politically correct world we would like to believe that the stigma attached to the disclosure of mental illness has been erased.  Sadly this is not the case, many people still hold negative views about the reality of mental health issues and are even fearful of recognising symptoms within themselves for fear of judgement from others.  Beyond Blue and Head Space have done amazing work in getting the message out into workplaces and the general public with their awareness campaigns however more still needs to be done.

It is now up to those of us who are living with a diagnosis to speak out and let people know there is nothing to be ashamed of.  There is help out there and I hope to continue to share information on this topic throughout the year.

What is “Mental Illness”?

“Mental illness includes a wide range of conditions that affect how we feel and think. Most of these are first experienced in the late teens or early twenties, but may only emerge later in life. Like many physical illnesses, mental illnesses are thought to arise from the interaction of genetic vulnerability and stresses in life.” read more here

What does this mean for those of us not currently effected by a mental illness such as Anxiety, Depression, Bi-Polar Disorder, Schizophrenia or Postpartum depression among the myriad of other diagnosis available.  How do we show up in the face of mental illness of a loved one or a friend or co-worker?  How does our very attitude effect the person with the diagnosis?  Are we supportive and caring or are we disbelieving and dismissing of the person’s feelings?

How do we respond to those close to us who may be suffering from anxiety or high stress levels?  It is time to have a deep conversation with ourselves and be open to understanding the depths of the symptoms and results of these two most common disorders.  Get educated about mental illness, take a course or do some research so you are equipped to deal with a revelation of this kind without shock or deference to some deep seated belief regarding the reality of mental illness.

Personally I would like to think of myself as open and accepting and willing to have the hard conversations. I have been touched by mental illness personally and have several friends and family members who are struggling with a diagnosis.

What do you do if you find yourself needing help; where do you go first? Your GP is a great place to start they have referral’s to specialists and access to other mental health professionals at the ready.  If you aren’t yet ready to step out of your knowing, some self owned research can help clarify your feelings and give you more information before opening up to a stranger.

Check out Beyond Blue or Relationships Australia  or call lifeline on 131114 for a confidential chat.

What should you look out for in yourself to help decide if you need help –

A general feeling of malaise; no longer finding joy in things that you used to enjoy; inability to “shake out of a funk”; continually feeling like you are being watched and judged; an overall sadness even in otherwise happy times; feeling “fake” in social situations; a dark mood in all endeavours and generally feeling out of sorts; feeling anxious and fearful in safe environments; inability to open up to those close to you.

If you are feeling these emotions for an extended period of time I urge you to reach out for help.  Start with a friend or even someone not quite in your inner circle – sometimes strangers are easier to talk to because there are no preconceived expectations on either side.

Please seek help and assistance sooner rather than later.  Next week we take a closer look at treatment and counseling for sufferers of Mental Illness.

Namaste