I absolutely loved this video, and welcome you all to watch it with me.
Yes. The mental health community does still shy away from people struggling through schizophrenia. No. It’s not okay.
But I love these stories because it shows that there is hope. I preach a lot (and yes, I use the word preach intentionally) that it’s okay to have hope that things will get better. This doesn’t mean that we won’t have bad days or bad seasons still. Mental health can be a lot like the ocean. Some days, we get out on our ship to set sail and the water is smooth like glass. Other days, it’s choppy little waves that make our day of sailing a little turbulent. And still, other days, it can be massive waves that can threaten to crash our ship if we’re not extra careful and crafty at the ship’s helm.
But we can always improve our sailing skills. Everyone’s ocean is a little bit different so the knowledge and techniques to navigate those waters will be unique to each person. But the point is, if you want coping skills and self-awareness and cognitive behavioral therapy to do their jobs, you’ve gotta practice, just like a sailor learning to sail the ocean.
No matter what your struggle is, be it schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc., please do not be afraid to talk about it especially with a helping professional.
And to be frank, if the helping professional gets uncomfortable that your experiences may not be in reality, that’s not your problem. It’s our duty to care for you. It’s not your duty to filter for us.
It’s okay to struggle. Everyone does. Some of us struggle more than others. It’s okay for all of us to ask for help when we need it.
Please reach out. Suicide is never an answer especially when help is available! You are worthy! Even if you do not believe that right now, I am telling you it is okay to claim self-worth for yourself and to give yourself permission to do so.
1-800-273-8255 is the national suicide hotline. Please use it, no matter what your struggle is, whenever you need it, and as often as you need it. This is a temporary moment in time and life can be better especially if we reach out for help.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to me to schedule an appointment, and let’s talk!
You do not have to go through this alone anymore. Let me wrestle through it with you.