Mental Health. Just saying the words brings up a flood of emotions for me. It’s one of the most important conversations we can have and yet, it’s often the one we avoid. As someone who’s seen people I care about struggle, and as someone who has lost someone just recently to the weight of this invisible battle, I ask the same question many of you do: Why didn’t they reach out? Why didn’t we see the signs? Why does this still carry so much stigma?
We have heard this phrase before: Mental Health doesn’t discriminate. It crosses age, gender, income and community lines. And it doesn’t always look like what we think. Sometimes it hides behind a smile, or a busy schedule, or the words “I’m fine.”
The truth is, many of us quietly carry something heavy, and we don’t know how to set it down or ask for help. I can tell you in my 59 years, especially through the death of my parents and my divorce, I’ve carried much grief, loneliness and sadness. At times I was at a breaking point, but thankfully I felt I could lean on friends and family for help.
In our beautiful community we’re lucky to be surrounded by nature, connection and kindness – but we are not immune. Talking about mental health openly and without shame will shift the tide. We need to normalize therapy, encourage real check-ins and make space for anyone to say: “I’m not OK.”
If you’re struggling, please don’t do it alone; call a friend, family member or myself. And if you know someone who is, reach out, even if it’s just to listen. Sometimes a small act of kindness or a safe place to talk can be lifesaving. Let’s choose compassion, always.
Seaside Sue, Publisher & Owner
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Photo Janis Jean
