Nov 07 2024 22 mins
Today, I'm diving into the silent, unseen side of mental health struggles—the heavy burden many carry quietly. For so many, these struggles feel deeply isolating, partly because they often remain invisible to others, making it hard for loved ones to fully grasp the weight someone may bear. This silence is rooted in fear of judgment, self-stigma, and the misconception that struggles aren’t “serious enough” to share. People often feel they should be able to handle it alone, convincing themselves they’re somehow “weak” or undeserving of support.
Over time, bottling things up creates an emotional buildup that can lead to emotional numbness or outbursts, and often manifests physically through symptoms like tension, insomnia, or even chronic pain. And in worst unfortunate, heartbreaking outcomes, death by suicide. YOU MATTER!!
Silence can strain relationships, too, as loved ones may misinterpret withdrawn behavior or changes in demeanor, which only deepens the isolation. Something I personally feel my dad dealt with the most during his time here with us. And many cope by masking their pain—perhaps with humor, a strong front, or a simple “I’m fine” when asked—creating an exhausting “double life” where they’re one person to the world and another within. This cycle is self-perpetuating, as the feeling of being a burden fuels further silence, trapping people in a loop that’s hard to break.
Yet, there’s hope in small acts, like confiding in a trusted person or even admitting the struggle to oneself; these little steps can lead to big changes!! As I explore these hidden struggles and the silence surrounding them, I encourage you to reflect on your own experiences—because everyone deserves support, no matter how “big” or “small” their struggles may seem. I hope everyone takes a minute to do the fun little task I included. I'd even love to hear about your take on things and if you realized a little more about the individuals around you that you seem to overlook daily.
And please remember, you can email me!! Anytime with Anything: [email protected] and to the few who have reached out, thank you!!
If not me, here are some resources for anyone looking to find the right help they need: Mental Health America (U.S.): Text MHA to 741741 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (U.S.): 988 (in the U.S.) Website: https://www.iasp.info SAMHSA National Helpline (U.S.): 1-800-662-HELP (4357) Trevor Project Lifeline (U.S.): 1-866-488-7386 Veterans Crisis Line (U.S.): 988, (then press 1)
As always, from the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU for tuning in and listening. Hang on tight for this crazy ride I call LiFE! It’s gonna be my BEST chapter yet. Don’t forget to like & subscribe to my channel on all my platforms!! Love you guys!! 💋