World Mental Health Day

Today is World Mental Health Day and my social media is buzzing about it. I would say it's a great thing! It's really time for the world to drop the stigma of mental health issues. And I hope more people can come forward to share and talk about their experiences too. I know it's hard but I always believe that recognising and accepting your mental health issues is a really important first step.

Sadly I live in a country where there is still a huge stigma about mental health. It's not so easy to talk to people about this issue, especially when people here throw the whole spectrum of mental health issues into one huge umbrella. People usually go straight to just generalising one's mental health issue with "lunatic" or "genetic" or some even believe in black magic and so on. And sadly, weakness.

Personally... I haven't been clinically diagnosed with depression or anxiety. But I've had my fair share of dark thoughts accompanying me throughout my life. And somehow the past three years have been especially more challenging for me. And I can't really share what I'm going through with anyone here.

And not only me, but I realise a few of my friends are sharing the same sentiment too. Though not directly or outspokenly, I think we are all going through somewhat a similar condition.

Can't really talk much about it here heh.

But anyway, if you are struggling with anything, I really encourage you to open up and find someone you can trust and talk to, and share it with them. Or if you can please seek help from a counselour, psychologist or therapist. I understand how hard it is to even share things with your own family members. A good friend is also a good platform. Just someone who can listen to your story.

And most importantly, I hope you can keep holding on. Have faith, be brave and keep going. Nothing in this life is permanent. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. Your dark clouds will disappear as the winds of change are constantly blowing free in your life.

And as always, as Florence and The Machine song goes; it's always darkest before the dawn.

Happy World's Mental Health Day!