05/07/2018
True and funny story: Several years ago, I was browsing in a clothing store with my sister. I began tugging at and admiring a nice coat that was nicely placed on a manikin. My sister happen to look in my direction and she immediately said, " Vynaska, what are you doing?" Well, it turned out that the manikin was an actual guy standing there waiting for a fitting room. In spite of my insurmountable of embarrassment, I managed to apologize and not faint. Luckily, he smiled and appeared very gracious. Although this incident occurred due to my vision issues, it may be perceived many different ways. With regard to mental illness, there are many perceptions and beliefs. How do you respond if you realize a family member or friend may have a mental illness? Having a visual impairment has been paramount in me realizing that not everyone will respond graciously, nor will everyone be comfortable around an individual with a physical disability such as blindness... which is ok. The same can be said for those encountering individuals with a mental illness. Yes, you may be uncomfortable or feel you do not have the words... this is ok. One suggestion may include gaining information. In other words, the more information we gather about a particular situation, sometimes the more comfortable we become. I am talking to those of you who may have a family member or friend struggling with a mental illness, and you find it difficult to address it or you simply avoid the individual. Consider learning more about their condition or how you may be a support. One of the major symptoms of depression is isolation. Not just physically keeping oneself away from others, but emotionally as well. Imagine if you will, having a sibling who is depressed and he/she is struggling with isolation, then couple that with family or friends who avoid him/her. Does this compound the situation? Yes, sometimes saying “stop wallowing in self pitty or shake it off” may be good enough. When it comes to someone suffering from a mental health concern much more is needed. Encourage your loved ones to seek help. Become more aware of mental illness and help that is available. If you are also struggling, I encourage you to make the call. I am here for you! Your therapist and coach, Vynaska
Dr. Jeffrey Lieberman, Professor and Chair of Psychiatry at Columbia University and past President of the American Psychiatric Association, envisions that br...
