Don’t get me wrong,
I think prevention is definitely a good strategy,
and raising awareness about the importance of maintaining mental health is a good message.
BUT...
I can’t help but wonder if Mental Health Awareness Week is becoming more of a trend that businesses like to jump on board with to raise their profile...
...and the true experience of mental illness gets a bit lost in the hype.
This time last year I was made redundant and evicted from my home during Mental Health Awareness Week, despite my employer and landlord knowing that I’m diagnosed with a chronic mental health disorder.
I know it wasn’t personal, it’s just business, but the lack of care and awareness was stark, considering the timing.
I tried to deal with it as positively and gracefully as I could, and luckily I was able to get through without being too triggered – but it was thoughtless and could have been very dangerous.
Mental Health Awareness Week also puts a lot of pressure on people who struggle with their mental health and the health system.
I read that some doctors dread it and would prefer less awareness as they are already struggling to provide support to people who need it!
I’d just like to say,
please take some time this week to think about those who struggle with their mental health on a daily basis, who may be triggered by the spotlight on intensive campaigning,
and who probably just can’t wait for the week to be over and for everyone to go back to their lives and forget all about it until next year,
which seems to be what happens anyway ❤️
(This was originally written and published as a LinkedIn Post)
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