LET’S STOP MAKING THIS A TABOO SUBJECT, K? THANKS.

STIGMA

The number one reason why Depression (and mental illness in general) goes un-talked about and untreated, is due to the stigma that follows. Below are a few definitions that sum up how stigma causes further damage to a person with a mental health condition.

*Click on the word Stigma (in bold) to read the full article*

“…The primary definition of Stigma is a sign of social unacceptability; the shame or disgrace attached to something regarded as socially unacceptable.” 

“Stigma is defined as a sign of disgrace or discredit, which sets a person apart from others. The stigma of mental illness, although more often related to context than to a person’s appearance, remains a powerful negative attribute in all social relations.”

“The lives of people with mental health conditions are often plagued by Stigma as well as discrimination. Stigma is a negative stereotype. Stigma is a reality for many people with a mental illness, and they report that how others judge them is one of their greatest barriers to a complete and satisfying life.”

“Learning to live with mental health problems is made more difficult, when someone experiences the prejudice caused by Stigma. Stigma can be used to exclude and marginalize people. The prejudice and fear caused by Stigma may even prevent people from coming forward and seeking the help they need.”

It’s incredibly important for me to raise awareness on how STIGMA is the reason why millions of fellow friends are suffering in silence. Too afraid to seek help for fear of social backlash, even when knowing that depression, if left untreated, at it’s worst, can lead to suicide.

 

 

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Being Aware of Our Behavior is Crucial

How do we know if depression is creeping in? How do we know if we have become depressed? How do we know if we’re acting different?

For starters, it’s imperative that we work on our mental health on a daily basis, not only for our overall well-being, but so that we get to know ourselves better and recognize when “something is off”.

I’ve overcome depression a couple of times in my life and I can say, with confidence, that I’m aware of how I behave when I’m in my regular state of mind vs. when depression is knocking.

 

How To Become Aware:

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DAILY JOURNALING

Journaling provides a space where you can document your thoughts, activities, along with gaining a better understanding of who you are. Journaling is a great way for you to be aware if there has been a negative shift in your behavior.

THERAPY

Talking to a professional who is trained to not judge and help you become aware, and change negative behaviors, is something I support with a passion. Their job is to recognize (behaviors, thought patterns, outside factors, etc.) that are hindering you from becoming your best self, all while providing a safe space for you to be you.

**Shout out to my therapist, Dr. Caroline M, you da best!! ?**

HOBBIE TEST (IS ANHEDONIA PRESENT)

If I feel I’m experiencing symptoms of depression, I perform this test to get a clearer answer. *Mind you by this point I’m aware that my behavior, and thoughts, are not consistent with who I am.*

What are your hobbies? (Write them down and perform them)

Some of my hobbies include:

● Meditating  ● Hanging out with Friends  ● Dancing  ● Singing  ● Writing  ● Planning travel  ● Meeting new people/building relationships ● Making people laugh ● Anything to do with practicing mindfulness

If I don’t feel any joy, when doing the things listed above, that most likely means anhedonia (the inability to feel pleasure) is present. It’s important to not self diagnose, so I make sure to check with my therapist to see if my concerns are accurate.

 

 

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