Do you struggle with your mental health and have a difficult time in getting the people in your life to be more understanding? In some cases, your colleagues might give you a hard time regarding the anxiety and depression you experience. I dealt with fear and anxiety for over 20 years and there were times that I had a difficult time in talking about my anxieties to others.
As a result, here are some suggestions on how to deal with the people you know regarding your mental health issues.
Listen to the professionals and not your friends
Your peers may mean well, but when it comes down to it, the professionals are aware of your circumstances more than anyone. I learned from personal experience that a professional counselor knows what you are going through and can help you deal with your problems. When you have questions about your mental health, always consult with a therapist who can help you.
Don’t argue with others
There were times that I would argue with a few people on how to manage my anxieties. I would insist on talking to an anxiety-based counselor, however others said I should just join a 12-step program. The people who told me to do a 12-step program were not familiar with anxiety and depression.
I realized that instead of arguing with others, my main priority should be to seek the right treatment. Remember that it is not your job to worry what everyone else thinks. There will always be someone who has a different opinion than you and your counselors.
Your goal is to get better
Concentrate on how you can face your fears and anxieties. Don’t waste your time arguing with your colleagues who are giving you a difficult time. This isn’t a public relations event where you need to get approval from everyone. This is your life and you are the one suffering. Your main focus is to get better.
Tell your friends to learn about your situation
I would tell my friends that the best way to help me would be to learn about what I was going through. I would advise them to read some good books or join a support group to better understand my situation. This would give my friends a better perspective on my anxiety struggles.
You are not alone
It can be very frustrating to manage your fear related issues when the people you know are on your case. Remember, you are not alone. There are millions of people around the world who struggle with their fears, anxieties, and depression. In addition, there are many people who have trouble getting the support they need. The key is to find those who will understand your situation by going to different organizations in your area.
Keep a distance from those who give you a difficult time
Distance yourself from those who won’t make an effort to help understand what you are going through. You need to surround yourself with positive and supportive people. If you have problems or issues with a particular person, you can always give that person a chance by talking with them. If they are unwilling to be more understanding, then you should find someone else to spend your time with.
Stay positive
A technique that is very helpful is to have read positive statements and affirmations that makes you feel good. Whenever you come across an affirmation that makes you happy, write it down somewhere so you can get back to it later on. Whenever you feel depressed, you can go back to your writings and review it to help feel better. This will also help reduce your stress and anxiety in your life.
Join a local mental health support group
When I had trouble finding people who could relate to my situation, I would go to some local mental health awareness support groups. I would meet different people who I could talk to about my struggles. The people who attend these groups are very understanding are really to spend time with you if you need their assistance.
Many hospitals, churches, and counselors in your area will be able to provide you with a list of these organizations. These groups will be aware of your situation and can give you additional advice regarding your problems. You can also talk to your doctor or current counselor for even more recommendations. There is always someone out there who can help you with your mental health situations.
