Hidden dangers : A critical look at mental health treatment & Support.
To truly grasp the gravity of the situation, we must recognise the profound power in acknowledging and prioritising mental health.
We must ensure that our youth do not diminish the struggles of those facing mental health challenges. Mental health cannot simply be reasoned away or overcome with sheer willpower. The impact and daily battles faced by individuals with mental health issues, such as depression, are profound and far-reaching.
For many of us, this journey has been a turbulent rollercoaster ride, significantly exacerbated by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Sadly, the increased prevalence of depression and mental health struggles has been met with a trivialisation of these issues in mainstream discourse. Social media platforms and the media at large have turned terms like "depression" and "mental health" into catchphrases, diluting the experiences of those truly grappling with these conditions. This has led to a dangerous normalisation of mental health struggles, where a sea of casual references and misconceptions drowns out genuine cries for help.
A similar phenomenon has emerged within the ADHD community, where widespread discussion and media coverage have led to a blurring of lines between genuine diagnoses and mere societal trends. This trend trivialises the experiences of those genuinely struggling with ADHD, undermining their need for support and understanding.
The repercussions of this trivialisation are dire. Those in genuine need of help find their pleas ignored, their struggles dismissed as mere exaggerations or excuses. As their lives unravel, society remains indifferent until it's too late.
I speak out now, deeply disturbed by the cavalier attitudes towards the warning signs of deteriorating mental health. Each day becomes a battleground for individuals teetering on the edge between choosing life and succumbing to the darkness.
The heart of the issue lies in the apathy of today's youth, who fail to comprehend the gravity of mental health struggles even when warned. In a culture that thrives on drama, serious issues like depression and suicidal ideation are often brushed aside as cries for attention.
There is a glaring lack of discourse surrounding the complexities of mental health, particularly the fact that platitudes like "cheer up" or "just be positive" hold no power against genuine psychological turmoil.
It is a tragedy when both youth and parents alike exhibit insensitivity due to a lack of understanding of mental health issues. I refuse to remain silent or be ostracised for oversharing, for it is only through open dialogue that proper understanding and support can be fostered.
The current medical system exacerbates these issues, often treating symptoms without addressing underlying causes. Conditions like Pyroluria and PANDAS are overlooked, leading to inappropriate treatments and worsening symptoms.
For those grappling with mental health challenges, the pressure to conceal their struggles only exacerbates their suffering. Genuine progress can only be made when individuals are met with acceptance, compassion, and understanding—not judgment or impatience.
So, the next time you encounter someone struggling with their mental health, remember the transformative power of simply being present. Your silent support can mean the world to someone fighting battles you may never fully understand. For the loved ones of those struggling, each day is a battle to keep hope alive.