Overcoming the Stigma: Why "It's Not That Bad" Isn't Good Enough

It's a common refrain: "It's not that bad." We often hear it when we share our struggles, when we open up about our mental health. But this seemingly harmless phrase can be incredibly damaging, invalidating our experiences and perpetuating the stigma surrounding mental health issues.

Why "It's Not That Bad" is damaging

1. Minimises our Experiences: When someone tells us our problems aren't "that bad," they're essentially saying our feelings aren't valid or important. This can lead to feelings of isolation, shame, and a belief that we're not worthy of help.

2. Perpetuates the Stigma: By comparing our experiences to others, we're reinforcing the idea that mental health issues are only serious when they reach a certain level of severity. This can discourage people from seeking help early on, when it's often most effective.

3. Ignores the Individuality of Suffering: Everyone experiences mental health challenges differently. What might seem "mild" to one person could be incredibly debilitating to another. Comparing our experiences can be unhelpful and insensitive.

   
   

It's Okay to Not Be Okay

It's important to remember that there's no "right" amount of suffering. If you're struggling with your mental health, it's okay to seek help. Your feelings are valid, and you deserve support.

Lets for a second, consider your legs, as the foundation of your mobility. One day, one of them gets injured. You can still walk, but every step is a painful and exhausting.

Would you ever tell yourself, "It's not that bad" or accept that because you can still walk, the pain isn't significant and you shouldn't seek help?

I imagine a lot of you answered with a no, right? So why do we tend to apply this same logic to our mental health? When we're struggling, even if we can function on some level, the pain can be overwhelming. It's time to recognise that mental health is just as important as physical health, and it deserves the same compassion and understanding.

Breaking Down the Barriers

Overcoming the stigma surrounding mental health requires a shift in mindset. We need to challenge the idea that mental health issues are something to be ashamed of. Instead, we should view them as a normal part of the human experience.

Here are some steps you can take to break down the stigma and seek the help you need:

• Educate Yourself: Learn more about mental health conditions and the impact they can have on people's lives.

• Talk Openly: Share your experiences with trusted friends, family, or a mental health professional.

• Seek Support: There are many resources available to help people with mental health issues, including therapy, support groups, and medication.

Remember, you're not alone. There are people who care about you and want to help. By seeking support and challenging the stigma, we can create a more compassionate and understanding world for everyone.

How can we create a society where mental health is seen as a normal part of human experience, and seeking psychological help is as common and accepted as going to the doctor for a physical illness?

If you're ready to take the first step towards healing and well-being, I'm here to help. Let's talk about your concerns and explore the possibilities of therapy together. Schedule a free consultation today.