In a world that’s finally starting to talk more about mental health, why do so many of us still feel ashamed, scared, or alone with our struggles? Despite the growing awareness, the silence around these issues can feel deafening.
The truth is, the mental health crisis is hiding in plain sight. Every year on World Mental Health Day, we’re reminded of the importance of discussing the topic. It’s a day to break the silence and have open conversations, yet stigma still lingers, often preventing people from seeking the help they need.
Have you ever felt lonely, even when surrounded by friends? Mental health struggles can feel isolating, but they don’t have to be. Let’s take this day—and every day—to confront the stigma, break the silence, and create a culture of support. Everyone deserves to be heard and understood.
Understanding the Stigma
"Stigma hurts. It creates barriers that keep people from seeking help." — Professor Sir Simon Wessely
The stigma surrounding mental health is a major hurdle to getting the support we need. It often stems from misconceptions and societal biases.
Social media significantly contributes to perpetuating mental health stigma.
Platforms frequently share sensationalised stories about mental health crises, creating fear and misunderstanding that lead to harmful stereotypes. Some influencers promote unrealistic portrayals of mental health, suggesting that quick fixes or trendy wellness practices can replace professional help, undermining the seriousness of these conditions. Additionally, posts related to mental health often attract derogatory comments, reinforcing the notion that discussing these issues is shameful or weak.
Work and group environments also play a role in this stigma. Many workplaces lack adequate mental health resources, leaving employees feeling isolated and discouraged from seeking help. The casual use of stigmatising language, such as terms like “crazy” or “overreacting,” perpetuates negative stereotypes and makes it harder for individuals to discuss their struggles openly. Furthermore, the pressure for high performance and fear of disclosure can deter employees from sharing their mental health challenges, as they may worry about job security or discrimination.
The impact is widespread—9 out of 10 people with mental health problems face discrimination, leading to isolation and delayed treatment (Mental Health Foundation, 2016). Overcoming this stigma is essential for fostering open conversations and empowering those affected. By challenging misconceptions and promoting education, we can help destigmatise mental health.
Recognising the signs (if there are any!)
Understanding mental health issues can help prompt us to open up for meaningful conversations. Look out for signs that someone might be struggling, such as:
Withdrawing from social activities
Changes in mood or behavior
Declining performance at work or in hobbies
Increased fatigue and irritability
If you notice these signs in yourself or others, address them with care.
IMPORTANT: Sometimes there are no visible signs of health issues. No one knows what goes on behind closed doors and people can, with exhaustion, put on a brave face in public. This is why kindness, compassion and creating a safe, open space are extremely important at any time.
Creating safe and open spaces for sharing mental health struggles is essential, especially because these issues often remain hidden in plain sight. I’ve experienced this firsthand. For years, I flitted between anxiety and depression while also grappling with an eating disorder and the desire not to be around. On the outside, I was the one everyone relied on—the caretaker, the one who seemed to have everything together. But behind that smile, I was exhausted and fighting an internal battle that felt insurmountable.
I spent years hiding my feelings, trying to change them and suppress the pain. I believed that if I just pushed through, everything would eventually be fine. However, I realised that I needed to feel those emotions—to sit with my discomfort rather than running from it. I craved compassion from those around me, the kind of understanding that would allow me to simply be myself without fear of judgement or expectation.
Those heavy feelings made me question how I could possibly share my struggles with others. Would I be judged? Would people gossip about my vulnerabilities? I worried that my issues would feel too heavy for those around me. I didn’t need anyone to solve my problems; I simply needed support—people who could walk alongside me and help me feel less alone in my journey.
In a world where everything looked perfect on the outside, the internal struggle was isolating. I often heard dismissive comments like, “Oh, don’t be silly! You have so much to be grateful for.” While well-intentioned, these remarks only deepened my sense of isolation. I didn’t want others to try to “fix” me or make comments; I just wanted a safe space to express what I was feeling.
It’s crucial to foster environments where people can share their struggles without fear of judgement or the pressure to conform to societal expectations. When we create these spaces, we not only validate each other's experiences, but we also remind one another that it’s OK to not be OK. Embracing our emotions with compassion allows us to connect deeply and supportively, creating a community where everyone feels seen and heard.
Tips for creating a safe space to talk about mental health
Creating a safe space for discussing mental health is essential for fostering open and honest conversations. Here are some practical tips to help you establish that supportive environment:
Start small and ask questions just “because”: Something like, “How have you been feeling lately?” can lead to deeper discussions.
Practice active listening: Ask open-ended questions and really listen. When someone shares their feelings, give them your full attention. Nod in understanding and avoid interrupting. Acknowledge their experiences and let them know it’s okay to share at their own pace.
Set ground rules for confidentiality: Establish clear guidelines about keeping discussions private. This builds trust and ensures individuals feel safe sharing their thoughts. That also includes not talking about others.
Be approachable and non-judgmental: Make it clear that you’re available to listen without judgment. Use open body language and maintain eye contact to show that you’re engaged. Validate all feelings and encourage a culture where people can express themselves without fear of criticism.
Set boundaries: Encourage discussions about mental health while respecting personal limits of yourself and of others. Make it clear that it’s okay to step back if someone feels overwhelmed, prioritising everyone’s comfort and self-care.
Lead by example: If you are comfortable, share your own experiences with mental health when appropriate. Your vulnerability can encourage others to open up and foster a supportive environment.
Use inclusive language: Be mindful of the language you use. Avoid stigmatising terms and use person-first language, such as “a person with depression,” instead of “a depressed person” to promote understanding.
Educate yourself and share resources: Knowledge is power! Familiarise yourself with mental health issues to better understand the challenges faced. Check out: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/
Encourage professional help: Remind friends that seeking help from a therapist or coach is a sign of strength, not weakness.
On this Mental Health Day, let’s commit to breaking the silence around mental health struggles. By fostering open conversations, educating ourselves, and practicing kindness, we can help destigmatise these issues and encourage those in need to seek the support they deserve. After all, we’re all in this together!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health issues, please seek help from a qualified mental health professional.
Disclosure: This article was originally published on www.Zupe.life
Comments