How to Open Up About One's Mental Health Problem

Stress has become an inevitable part of everyone's life these days. With hectic work schedule and daunting deadlines to meet, most people have got accustomed to living pressured lives. In such a fast-paced world, it is not easy for a person to have control over the rapidly changing circumstances, which has an adverse impact on his or her mind and body.

Consequently, in this ever-growing tussle, more and more people are getting exposed to various mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, which prevent them from fulfilling their potential. Sadly, not many people get help for their mental issues due to the stigma and myths surrounding such disorders. Moreover, a majority of patients hesitate to discuss and share their mental health concerns with others, which often leads to a delay in seeking medical help.

As a result, many continue to struggle with their condition without any help and support, ultimately leading to chronic disabilities and life-threatening conditions. One can combat the crippling symptoms by following certain self-help techniques. But first of all, one must be upfront to discuss his or her mental issues with a loved one so that adequate steps could be taken to mitigate the risks.

Listed below are some tips that can help an individual to open up about his or her mental illness:

Deciding whether to say it or not: The first thought would certainly be "let's not do it." Talking about one's own mental condition can be tough, considering the negativity prevailing in the society regarding the issue. However, it is important to overcome this denial and be courageous to speak up about one's mental health condition and then seek medical help at the earliest.

Selecting a confidante:  The society at large lacks knowledge and information concerning mental health. Due to this, most mental disorders are surrounded by myths, misconceptions, marginalization and stigma. Apparently, not everyone understands the plight of a person fighting a serious mental health condition. Therefore, it is important to look for some trustworthy people who can understand the real concerns, while keeping the sufferer's confidentiality intact.

Deciding when to discuss the issue: It is better to confide in someone before the situation goes out of control. While opening up about one's condition with friends or loved ones, it is important to select a person who is most willing to help and provide the needed support. Making oneself comfortable and decluttering the mind before initiating a conversation with a person he or she has confidence in can go a long way in creating a positive environment.

Letting the cat out of the bag: Once someone decides to confront the situation upfront, the next important step is to initiate the conversation regarding the struggle that he or she is dealing with. It is always beneficial to let the person know beforehand about the significance of the discussion so that he or she comes prepared for it.

However, one must keep in mind that throughout the conversation, it is not mandatory for someone to share every single details with one's confidante. Instead, one should only share the things he or she is comfortable sharing with and choose to keep intrinsic details private.

Seeking profession help

At Sovereign Mental Health Services, we take the utmost care to ensure that our patients are kept in a positive environment. Personalized attention, positive interactions with doctors and effective group therapies go a long way in helping people recover.

If you or your loved one is suffering from any kind of mental health disorder, you can seek help from Sovereign Mental Health Services for availing the best mental health treatment in your area. We are adept at providing innovative and evidence-based therapeutic interventions for the treatment of various mental health disorders. Call us at our 24/7 helpline number 866-973-7164 to know about our mental health treatment centers.


 By Susan Navarez


Article Source: How to Open Up About One's Mental Health Problem