This morning I had a long and wonderful conversation with one of my dearest friends. We chatted about so many things concerning our families. We wandered from the cute things our grandkids say, to the challenge of so many personalities spending quality time together on summer vacations, and of course we covered the picky eating habits of just about everyone, which make large family dinners very challenging. The topic that took over the end of our conversation was the different strains of mental illness in both of our families, including, at one time or another, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADD, and ADHD. Almost all of those within these two families who are living with mental illness have reached out for and gotten the help that he/she needed, and all those people are living good, productive, happy lives. Little thought is given to these illnesses from day to day. However, two family members will not admit that they need help, and therefore are suffering in unnecessary ways, and they are depriving themselves of the happier lives they could lead. There is absolutely no reason that anyone should suffer with depression, or anxiety, or bipolar disorder. There are so many medications and therapies available.
I don’t know why these two people are in denial. Family members have tried to talk to both of them to encourage them to seek help. But nothing has worked to get these two people moving in the right direction. The saddest part is that not only do these people continue to suffer, but the whole family around them suffers as well. It is very difficult to be around someone who is always sad. It is very difficult to be around someone who is always anxious. It is really difficult to be around someone who is manic. It is really selfish for someone to refuse to get help for him/herself, because that person is impacting more lives than just their own by staying in a place of disfunction, pain, and sadness.
Please do not join the rank of sufferers. Stop being selfish. Find a doctor that specializes in mental health illness. Make an appointment with that doctor. Go to that appointment. Talk to your doctor about a plan of action that can bring you to a fuller, happier, richer life – for both you and your family.
Below is a list of organizations that can help you start helping yourself.
National Alliance On Mental Illness
Anxiety Musings 