(ThyBlackMan.com) When it comes to seeking help for mental health issues, a lot of people can feel worried about what others might say. Even though there is a lot more public awareness of the issues, it can still feel as though there is a stigma attached to admitting to problems. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. Once you open up and admit that you need help, you are taking charge of your life and owning up to your issues. It’s the first big step towards getting the help you need.
Speak to someone
Ideally, you want to talk with a healthcare professional who can offer you the best advice on treatment. They can make a diagnosis and recommend counselling or treatment, depending on what’s best for you. It can make such a difference offloading everything that has been worrying you.
There are also places such as Avalon who provide specialist treatment for mental health issues, as well as drug and alcohol abuse. It means you can start moving forward and taking back control of your life. If you find it difficult to talk to a doctor, then try confiding in a friend. Sometimes, just having someone there who you can openly talk to can really help.
Raising low self-esteem
When low self-esteem becomes a problem, it can start impacting all areas of your life including your mental health. This can affect how you view yourself and the world around you. There are ways you can raise your self-esteem, such as challenging the way the negative thoughts affect you. For instance, when you think you are “too stupid” to do something, or “nobody cares” about you, you start to believe them.
To start with, keep a diary of these thoughts and ask yourself why you believe them. Then start to challenge these beliefs with evidence that contradicts them, such as the things you can do, and the people who do care about you. You need to start focusing on the good things and less on the bad. Aim to have five good things on your list, and add to it regularly. Low confidence may have started when you were growing up, but it isn’t too late to change how you see yourself.
Get back to work
If you’ve taken time off because of your illness, then returning to the workplace can seem like a daunting process. You may worry about being bullied or discrimination, or that it’s too soon, and you may feel unwell again. These are common concerns, but returning to work can be a positive step in your recovery.
It helps to make new friendships and catch up with your colleagues. It also helps your financial situation as you’ll be back to earning your full wage, which makes you feel better about yourself. It also provides you with a sense of identity and purpose, knowing that you are contributing by being at work. It also helps to be around people as it will make you feel much more positive, and will give you an extra boost of confidence.
Staff Writer; Carlos Lea