#seeking mental health support

[roshni99]

One in seven Indians faces mental health issues, and men often battle silently due to stigma. Let's shatter the silence and foster a supportive environment. Here's how: 1️⃣ Educate: Early mental health education is crucial to dispel fears and encourage open conversations. 2️⃣ Role Models: Men embracing mental health self-care set a powerful example for the younger generation. 3️⃣ Workplace Understanding: Organizations, let's integrate mental health support into policies and practices. Recognize the signs: mood swings, sleep changes, persistent sadness. Speak up, seek help. Together, we can make a difference. 💪 #MentalHealthMatters #BreakTheSilence #InternationalMensDay #SupportEachOther 🌈 For more information, visit: https://www.raphacure.com For professional support and essential tools, don't forget to download our mobile app: 📲 Android: http://bit.ly/3JACQOb 🍏 Apple: https://apple.co/3I0QKbe 🌟🤩 men's mental health,mental health,breaking the silence,mental health awareness,men's health,men's mental health month,mental health tips,men's mental wellness,mens mental health,let's talk mental health month,men's mental health awareness month,how to improve mental health,men's mental health awareness,men's mental health depression,mental health challenges,seeking mental health support,men's mental health channel 5,mental health awareness month

[giantkillerjack]

Today my therapist introduced me to a concept surrounding disability that she called "hLep".

[plain-text version of this post can be found under the cut]

Which is when you - in this case, you are a disabled person - ask someone for help ("I can't drink almond milk so can you get me some whole milk?", or "Please call Donna and ask her to pick up the car for me."), and they say yes, and then they do something that is not what you asked for but is what they think you should have asked for ("I know you said you wanted whole, but I got you skim milk because it's better for you!", "I didn't want to ruin Donna's day by asking her that, so I spent your money on an expensive towing service!") And then if you get annoyed at them for ignoring what you actually asked for - and often it has already happened repeatedly - they get angry because they "were just helping you! You should be grateful!!"

And my therapist pointed out that this is not "help", it's "hLep".

Sure, it looks like help; it kind of sounds like help too; and if it was adjusted just a little bit, it could be help. But it's not help. It's hLep.

At its best, it is patronizing and makes a person feel unvalued and un-listened-to. Always, it reinforces the false idea that disabled people can't be trusted with our own care. And at its worst, it results in disabled people losing our freedom and control over our lives, and also being unable to actually access what we need to survive.

So please, when a disabled person asks you for help on something, don't be a hLeper, be a helper! In other words: they know better than you what they need, and the best way you can honor the trust they've put in you is to believe that!

Also, I want to be very clear that the "getting angry at a disabled person's attempts to point out harmful behavior" part of this makes the whole thing WAY worse. Like it'd be one thing if my roommate bought me some passive-aggressive skim milk, but then they heard what I had to say, and they apologized and did better in the future - our relationship could bounce back from that. But it is very much another thing to have a crying shouting match with someone who is furious at you for saying something they did was ableist. Like, Christ, Jessica, remind me to never ask for your support ever again! You make me feel like if I asked you to call 911, you'd order a pizza because you know I'll feel better once I eat something!!

Edit: crediting my therapist by name with her permission - this term was coined by Nahime Aguirre Mtanous!

Edit again: I made an optional follow-up to this post after seeing the responses. Might help somebody. CW for me frankly talking about how dangerous hLep really is.

Plain-text version:

Today my therapist introduced me to a concept surrounding disability that she called "hLep".

Which is when you - in this case, you are a disabled person - ask someone for help ("I can't drink almond milk so can you get me some whole milk?", or "Please call Donna and ask her to pick up the car for me."), and they say yes, and then they do something that is not what you asked for but is what they think you should have asked for ("I know you said you wanted whole, but I got you skim milk because it's better for you!", "I didn't want to ruin Donna's day by asking her that, so I spent your money on an expensive towing service!") And then if you get annoyed at them for ignoring what you actually asked for - and often it has already happened repeatedly - they get angry because they "were just helping you! You should be grateful!!"

And my therapist pointed out that this is not "help", it's "hLep".

Sure, it looks like help; it kind of sounds like help too; and if it was adjusted just a little bit, it could be help. But it's not help. It's hLep.

At its best, it is patronizing and makes a person feel unvalued and un-listened-to. Always, it reinforces the false idea that disabled people can't be trusted with our own care. And at its worst, it results in disabled people losing our freedom and control over our lives, and also being unable to actually access what we need to survive.

So please, when a disabled person asks you for help on something, don't be a hLeper, be a helper! In other words: they know better than you what they need, and the best way you can honor the trust they've put in you is to believe that!

P.S. Also, I want to be very clear that the "getting angry at a disabled person's attempts to point out harmful behavior" part of this makes the whole thing WAY worse. Like it'd be one thing if my roommate bought me some passive-aggressive skim milk, but then they heard what I had to say, and they apologized and did better in the future - our relationship could bounce back from that. But it is very much another thing to have a crying shouting match with someone who is furious at you for saying something they did was ableist. Like, Christ, Jessica, remind me to never ask for your support ever again! You make me feel like if I asked you to call 911, you'd order a pizza because you know I'll feel better once I eat something!!

Edit: crediting my therapist by name with her permission - this term was coined by Nahime Aguirre Mtanous!

Edit again: I made an optional follow-up to this post after seeing the responses. Might help somebody. CW for me frankly talking about how dangerous hLep really is.

[unsolicitedadvicecatlady]

A clarion call to put an end to cosplaying diagnoses

First off, it's cheapening the experiences of people who have actually been diagnosed.

Secondly, it's promoting stigma and misinformation.

A diagnosis is not a shield to hide behind or a weapon to bash people with. It's a life-altering piece of news to a suffering individual.

It's not cute, it's not trendy, it's not a joke.

There are protections in place for people with diagnosed disabilities to foster environments that are accessible and open for all; not to give people internet clout, not for attention, not for distracting from the issues on the table.

Claiming a disability without going through the proper channels is, to me, a lot like stolen valor. If it's against the law to pretend to be a veteran to reap benefits not earned, the same principle ought to be applied to people claiming they have been diagnosed with an illness without a formal assessment.

I am not talking about people who suspect they have a health concern and haven't been able to get a formal diagnosis but plan to, I'm talking about people who have no intention of receiving a valid diagnosis but want to claim they have it.

Receiving a diagnosis is life changing. It can be devastating; it can be a relief. With a diagnosis comes a responsibility to take action based off of the information that has now been received. There is now an opportunity to seek therapeutic intervention and to get help, whereas before it was only suffering without knowing why or what to do about it.

It's a disgusting trend that people are claiming to have a diagnosis for attention or even to rationalize their behavior. It needs to stop.

Sincerely, A legitimately ill mo-fo who will kick your ass if you're falsely claiming a disorder thinking it will save you from the consequences of shitty behavior.

[pumpkin-the-girlie-girl-vixen]

Meeting expectations set by my StrawBerry Mama can be quite challenging at times.

- StrawBerry Shortcake Kid

🍓 Strawberry Shortcake is usually portrayed as a cheerful and optimistic character, always ready to help her friends and spread positivity. Her mental status in the stories is often depicted as stable and resilient, even in challenging situations. She faces various adventures and problems with a positive attitude and a kind heart, which helps her overcome obstacles and support her friends. While this meme humorously suggests otherwise, Strawberry Shortcake's character is generally seen as a symbol of stability and joy.

🍰🍓 Even though Strawberry Shortcake is a strong character, everyone has their breaking point when the weight of the world is on their shoulders. No matter how resilient and positive she is, there are moments when the challenges and responsibilities can feel overwhelming. It's important to remember that even the most cheerful and optimistic individuals can struggle at times. Acknowledging these moments of vulnerability can make her character more relatable and human, showing that it's okay to seek support and take a break when needed. 🍰🍓🍰🍓🍰🍓🍰🍓🍰🍓🍰🍓

Growing up, I was lovingly referred to as my mother’s “strawberry shortcake kid.” This identity, infused with sweetness and cheer, has shaped who I am since before I even took my first breath. From the very beginning, my mother instilled in me the values that Strawberry Shortcake embodies—joy, resilience, and a commitment to uplifting those around me. 🍓

Just as Strawberry Shortcake navigates her adventures with positivity, I’ve faced my own challenges with an optimistic outlook. I recall moments in childhood where I would don my favorite strawberry-themed outfits, embodying that cheerful spirit, and aim to spread happiness to my peers. Whether it was organizing a small gathering to celebrate a friend’s achievement or lending a listening ear to someone in need, I embraced the role of a supportive friend, much like my beloved character. 🍰

The lessons I learned from Strawberry Shortcake resonate with me today. I understand the importance of mental resilience and the ability to remain stable in the face of adversity. Her adventures remind me that life will present challenges, but with a kind heart and a positive mindset, we can find solutions and support each other through tough times. 🍓

As I look to the future, I carry forward this legacy of joy and positivity. My journey may not always mirror the simplicity of a children’s story, but I strive to maintain that cheerful disposition and optimism in everything I do. I hope to inspire others in the same way Strawberry Shortcake inspired me—by embracing the sweetness of life, supporting friends, and facing obstacles with a smile. Truly, my identity as a “strawberry shortcake kid” is a testament to the power of positivity and the joy of community. 🍰

As much as I strive to embody the cheerful spirit of Strawberry Shortcake, I recognize that even she has her moments of vulnerability. Despite her strength and unwavering optimism, there are times when the weight of the world bears down heavily on her shoulders. This truth resonates deeply with me, as I have experienced similar moments of feeling overwhelmed, even while trying to maintain a bright facade. 🍓

Acknowledging these struggles is a vital part of my identity. Just like Strawberry Shortcake, I have learned that it’s okay to admit when things feel too heavy and to seek support when needed. There have been days when the responsibilities of life seemed insurmountable, and I, too, have felt the urge to retreat into my own version of Strawberryland, a place where I can recharge and gather my strength 🍰

Understanding that vulnerability is a natural aspect of the human experience has allowed me to embrace my own moments of doubt and fatigue. Recognizing that even the most cheerful individuals can falter has made me more empathetic toward others. It reminds me that behind every smile can lie a story of struggle. It is essential to create spaces where we can express our challenges without fear of judgment, much like how Strawberry Shortcake leans on her friends for support. 🍓

In these instances of vulnerability, I find strength in community. I’ve learned the importance of surrounding myself with friends who uplift and encourage me, just as Strawberry Shortcake does with her pals. By sharing my feelings and experiences, I discover that I am not alone in my struggles. This connection with others creates a sense of belonging and reminds me that it's perfectly acceptable to take breaks, reevaluate my path, and gather my thoughts. 🍰

Ultimately, embracing both the cheerful and vulnerable aspects of my identity as a “strawberry shortcake kid” has enriched my life. It has taught me that resilience doesn’t mean never faltering; rather, it means acknowledging our struggles and leaning on our support systems when we need them most. Just like Strawberry Shortcake, I strive to face each day with optimism while also allowing myself the grace to be human. 🍓

🍓 🍰

[youcanthelpbutbecomethesun]

I am Not Doing Good

[soupblr]

[ociels]

god i think my cousin was relieved to see someone with the same disorder as her

[sucha-coolcat]

I’m like two steps short of making an Instagram story begging people for validation and kindness because I cannot find it in myself

[artofkhaos404]

Hey, guys. I don't usually post anything about my personal life on this page, and if I do it's usually vague, but I'm curious to get some thought, and maybe support, from the community during this next stage of my life.

I've battled with fairly major mental illness for at least half of my life but never had the option to attempt recovery or even address the issue in general. However, recently I have all but lost my ability to function and there seems to be no other option left but to seek help. I'll be having my first ever therapy session this month, and to be honest, I don't think I've even fully comprehended that yet. Feels like I have years worth of secrets, symptoms and stories to unbury from the depths of suppressed memory...

Does anyone have any advice, tips or thoughts on beginning therapy? Where to start? What to avoid? How to go about opening up? Good therapists versus bad therapists? I'll take anything you guys got.

Thanks 🖤🖤🖤

[nei-ning]

Never before have I asked help for my mental state from hospitals (I always have talked with my sis or friends) but today I simply had to. I honestly felt I can't anymore, that everything is falling on me etc. Lots of horrible feelings.

So I walked to local hospital, meeting a nurse in the waiting area. She looked at me and asked what I am there for. I instantly burst into tears, saying I just can't anymore. She rushed to hug me, asking am I having mental issues. I said yes and she instantly escorted me in small waiting room. She stood by my side, rubbing my back and shoulder as I told her everything. She bend to hug me more, holding me. She was so sweet and kind. She told me to wait while she would go get a doctor.

Doctor came and took me in his personal room. He said nurse already had told him what's going on but he wanted to hear it all from me too. I started to cry hard again, telling him everything. I told him I've been having issues to sleep for 3 weeks now, I just can't go on alone anymore, I have been having depression symptoms for years, no longer I get joy from things which brought me joy in the past, I can't eat and I drink very little, I see nightmares every night, I wake up sweating, I get panic-, anxiety- and depression attacks etc.

He listened to me while writing notes to himself, asking things carefully at times. He finally said that he can give me pills (I get them tomorrow from pharmacy) which are now first-aid to my situation. They help me sleep better and reduce my symptoms. However, he was very firm, in gentle way, when he said that in Monday I need to contact my own hospital and go there to talk with therapist and get better medication for depression. He was especially worried since my sleep issues have been going on for 3 weeks now.

I told him I've try to go on on my own in life, thinking my depression symptoms are actually symptoms of being bored and nothing more. I also admitted that I can't go more further on my own anymore. That I have come to my point of asking help.

He smiled gently while looking in my eyes, saying: "I am happy you are here now."

So, tomorrow I get the pills from local pharmacy and on Monday I can book a time for nurse / doctor online, telling them everything there and see how things start to go from there.

I feel a bit more relieved now but there's still these anxious feelings and thoughts, bringing fear and panic attacks. And tears. Lots and lots of tears.

[edwardshundredyearoldspunk]

I really think you're telling on yourself if you actually think that people are diagnosing themselves with every and any mental disorder in the DSM-5 from a tiktok. chronically online of you to think this tbh. it's giving, "I don't actually talk to people irl and all my information about this is from social media."

[rayshippouuchiha]

Hi ray! Umm well I’m not good at expressing feelings but um. I really love your blog it’s like a happy place for me. I’ve not been doing well this past few months. It’s a repeat cycle of being ok, relapsing and feeling my mental health go down the drain and crying then back to being ok. And right now I can’t seem to cry about what happened but umm. I’m not sure feeling numb is good too? I’m just really confused about how I feel and I don’t know who to talk to. But I really love how your blog is a safe haven for me. So yeah, thanks for listening to me rambling 

[kindnessoverperfection]

I can't stand being open about negative emotions, but covering them up feels like a fucking knife to the chest.

I think it's because the system is autistic and misses social cues / boundaries, so Grey has overshared and accidentally put too much on people in the past.

And from a combination of autism trauma + abuse & us not actually knowing the line between healthy sharing/support and Too Much, my brain processed it as "if you admit you're having a hard time or ask for support, they won't love you"

[kc22invesmentsblog]

Embracing Self-Care: Prioritizing Yourself in a Hectic World

What could you do more of? Written by Delvin In today’s fast-paced and demanding world, it’s easy to get caught up in the never-ending cycle of responsibilities and obligations. Amidst the chaos, we often forget to prioritize the most important person in our lives: ourselves. Self-care is not selfish; it is a crucial aspect of leading a fulfilling and balanced life. In this blog post, we will…

[inkubye]