We have to stop putting people with mental health conditions into a “one-size-fits-all” box. Because it is not a one-size-fits-all—it’s a mixture of all different variables, levels and conditions.
Much like the sicknesses of cancer, MS, heart disease and so on, mental health conditions have different levels or varying stages of what the body is able to tolerate, fight off, and navigate. Treatment is definitely not a one-size-fits-all. Like treating cancer, the doctors can navigate to a certain treatment protocol but not every patient will react to the treatment the same way. That is not the patient’s fault because every single person’s cellular make up is slightly different and treatments respond differently to each person.
Why then, do we think that treatment for mental health is linear, easy, a one-size-fits-all?
Just fix it. Make it go away. You “should” be better by now—what are you doing that is making you not get better?
I see this again and again and it’s heartbreaking. It shameful for the person dealing with mental health conditions and the tolerance is so low from society. So, the mask comes on.
Yes, I am pushing buttons. I am pushing beliefs and I don’t care.
We are losing some of the most gentle souls on this planet, and that is so freaking harsh, judgemental and intolerant. Yet, we can make a difference, even for one person by learning, having compassion and listening to those affected. And it starts with you; the family member for sure but also the extended family, the friend, the employer.
It takes a village to help that one person suffering with something we cannot see—a healthy village of supporters and people who want to learn what it’s like to walk in their shoes, people who want to actually help, support, and make them feel safe to share.
And I’m not just talking share a quick post and then carry on—we need to learn. Because I’ll tell you this; you don’t want to be in my shoes, and the truth is, I am terrified for our kids.
In honour of September being Suicide Awareness month—it should be every month.
Let’s help them stay.