Did you know every year one adult in four, along with one child in ten, will have a mental health issue? That number is astounding. However, I wonder, how many of these people can get support or help? How many of these people are encouraged to go to therapy? How many of these people are told, "it is all in your head, get over it."
This day's purpose is to raise awareness and better understanding of mental health problems, which will hopefully decrease the stigma around getting help. Bottom line, mental health is just as important as physical health.
Which is why I am going to share my moment of self-realization, and awareness around my own mental health. I am lucky that every day I get to witness to some of the strongest individuals. I get to see growth and change in its' rawest form.
I AM DOING MY DREAM JOB.
But...there is always a but... I have slacked on my own mental care. Day in and day out I tell my clients the importance of self-care. The importance of making yourself a priority. The importance of a healthy mind.
Years ago, I was having a drink with some friends, I looked up and saw my dental hygienist across the bar. I then saw her spit in a cup. I most likely gawked (eyes wide, mouth open, loud sigh). BUT REALLY? The lady who tells me I need to floss more because my gums are atrocious was chewing tobacco? I don't think you need to have any dental knowledge to know chewing is probably not best practice for healthy gums, but hey what did I know? The point is, I never went back to that dentist.
So here I sit in my big comfy chair telling my clients to continue their path of self-care, understanding their "stuff," and how to work towards a better, healthier way of living.
I might as well spit my big wad of tobacco in my cup... Ok, I don't actually chew, but the reality is I have depression. I have anxiety. I get triggered, often. What am I doing to care for these issues? Until last week, not much of anything. Yes, I have a ridiculous amount of awesome coping skills I access, but despite people close to me suggesting I get my own therapy, I would tell myself, "I got this," "I don't have time," "I can't afford that expense."
The hypocrisy is real y'all.
How can I continue to ask my own clients to see me and take charge of their own mental health, when I am not doing the same?
I can't.
So, I went through the process. I went online, and I began looking for my own therapist. My own person that I can see weekly to support my own growth, and my own awareness about my mental health.
Professionally and personally I believe with my whole heart, mental health is IMPORTANT for EVERYONE.
#mentalhealth #therapy #selfcare #longmonttherapist #counseling #mentalhealthawareness #growth #change #youmatter
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