February 6th is National Time to Talk Day. The purpose of this initiative is to encourage those struggling with mental health-related issues to speak up without having to worry about stigma or judgment. So many people with mental health issues struggle in silence for years without trying to get the help they need. This can be due to many reasons. They may have accepted their disorders as their reality and don’t believe that treatment is an option for them. They may be worried about how they are going to be perceived, or maybe they just aren’t aware of the treatment options that are out there.
When left untreated, mental health disorders can destroy and even claim lives. Many people even turn to substance use as a way to cope. This is why this initiative is so incredibly important. Nobody should be afraid to ask for help.
Modern Society and Mental Health
We have made a lot of progress in regard to not only how we view mental illness but how we treat those struggling with it. Consider the old days before there was really any widespread information at all about what mental health disorders were. Those that were struggling were not given the help they needed in most cases. In fact, they were often regarded as “insane” and even dangerous. In many cases, they were sent away to live in an asylum where very little was done to actually help them.
Women, in particular, faced incredible mistreatment inside these facilities. The public had little idea of what was actually going on behind the walls of these asylums. Family members thought that their loved ones were receiving actual medical treatment when, in fact, there was a lot of cruelty and inhumane things going on.
Thankfully, we know that this is no longer the case. We recognize that mental health disorders are out of a person’s control and that they have done nothing to cause or deserve them. We also know about lots of different treatment methods that can help to significantly reduce symptoms and improve one’s quality of life.
Nevertheless, there is always more work and improvement to be done, and that is where National Time to Talk Day comes in. The very first National Time to Talk Day took place back in 2014; it has continued to be held every year ever since. The Time to Change social movement was what brought about this initiative.
Understanding the Main Purpose of This Initiative
Sometimes, talking about mental health topics can be a little difficult, even today. Some people may be worried that they will say the wrong thing or accidentally insult someone. Others don’t like bringing up certain mental health issues since they still view them as taboo subjects–even after all the positive change that has occurred. Initiatives like National Time to Talk Day give us a good excuse to talk about mental health without having to be afraid. They are intended to bring about further awareness about the different types of mental health disorders that are out there and how they affect others.
Just like with many things in life, the more people come to learn about mental health disorders, the more acceptance and understanding they will have toward those who are struggling. Because not everyone has experienced problems with their mental health before, they might not be able to relate. However, through further awareness, they can at least better understand, which can help them to feel a greater sense of empathy and compassion for those that do struggle.
Another main focus of an initiative like National Time to Talk Day is to change the narrative. Misinformation and stigma surrounding mental health disorders are so dangerous. Not only can these things keep those struggling from getting the help they need, but they can cause a negative self-perception that can impact their lives going forward.
How You Can Participate in National Time to Talk Day
There are lots of different ways that you can participate in this very important initiative. Use the hashtag #TimetoTalk on social media and spread awareness about what this day represents and is meant to accomplish. You can also further educate yourself about mental health by reading more. This can help you get a better understanding of the ways that you can help the people in your life that may be struggling.
This is also a great opportunity to share your own story. Maybe you’ve struggled with mental health problems in the past and have taken the steps to get the proper help you needed. By opening up and sharing your story of success, you can provide hope to other individuals and encourage them to seek treatment and begin the healing process.
February 6th is National Time to Talk Day. This day is meant to spread awareness about mental health disorders and give those that are struggling the ability to seek help without having to fear judgment or stigma. Mental health disorders can destroy lives when they are left untreated. Many people also turn to substance misuse as a way to cope. Nobody should be scared to ask for the help they need. This is why this initiative is so important. You can participate by sharing the hashtag #TimetoTalk on social media and by continuing to educate yourself. If you are struggling with substance misuse, our team at The Ho Tai Way can help. Call (714) 581-3974 today to learn more.
