It's Okay Not To Be Okay

IT'S OKAY NOT TO BE OKAY

Mental health issues like anxiety and depression are more prevalent than most think. Statistics around anxiety, depression and other disorders indicate that a large number of the Canadian population are afflicted at some point in their lives. However, a shocking lack of knowledge about these mental health issues can lead to the stigmatisation of those afflicted. This can also discourage those with mental health issues from seeking the help they need.
As such, the team at Unique Peace Counselling would like to dispel some of the myths surrounding anxiety, depression and other mental health issues and let everyone know that it’s okay to not be okay.

Anxiety

The collection of mental health issues known as anxiety disorders are characterised by excessive concern, fear, and trepidation. Whereas panic disorders involve abrupt and unplanned panic attacks, generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterised by excessive worry over seemingly mundane situations that happen on a regular basis. Fear of being evaluated or judged by others in social circumstances is known as a social anxiety disorder. Making someone who is experiencing anxiety feel understood and supported is essential in reassuring them. Recognize that experiencing anxiety can be difficult and upsetting. Tell them that getting help is a good first step in managing their responses and triggers. Encourage them to engage in activities that promote self-care and reduce stress, such as exercise, meditation, or deep breathing. Above all, making room for emotions is essential in supporting someone with anxiety.

Depression

Depression is a condition that has an impact on a person’s emotions, thoughts, and actions. It is marked by enduring unhappiness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in once-enjoyable activities. Changes in appetite, sleep issues, weariness, and difficulties concentrating are some additional signs of depression. Depression stigmatises those who have it by portraying them as weak, sluggish, or unmotivated. They might be instructed to “simply snap out of it” or to “stop feeling sorry for themselves.” A crucial first step in making someone who is experiencing depression feel understood and supported is to offer support and understanding. Listening and offering support for their basic needs can be a good first step. Urge them to seek out expert assistance and offer to accompany them to appointments if they require assistance. Assure them that they are not alone and that seeking assistance is a good first step.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

A person may develop PTSD, a mental health condition, after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. A traumatic experience doesn’t have to be one singular chaotic event, but can rather be characterised by many “smaller” events that lead to a negative view of said events. Flashbacks, nightmares, avoiding triggers, and hypervigilance are among some common PTSD traits. It’s important to be vigilant for PTSD in self and others, as doing so may help to destigmatize trauma/PTSD. Encouraging those affected to find help through talk-therapy is a good first step. This way, a safe space can be created to explore trauma triggers.

Unique Peace Counselling - Improving Mental & Emotional Health

Those who have issues like anxiety and depression need compassion and reassurance as they attempt to manage their traits. Stigmas serve no helpful purpose and only hamper the recovery process. The best thing for anyone with a mental health issue is to get professional help and begin working on creating a support network. Please contact us if you are looking for help concerning mental health issues. Unique Peace Counselling offers therapy for people who are suffering from mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Through a series of counselling sessions (currently conducted remotely), we will explore the root causes of your presenting traits and how to move alongside them. We are available to talk with you, answer your questions, and provide you with a complete treatment plan to help you understand the emotions you are going through. We also offer referrals to other specialised professionals should your needs fall outside the scope of our practice.

It's Okay Not To Be Okay