Labels Don’t Define you
How often have you felt the need to share your Mealth Health condition or feelings but felt its better to keep it a secret for fear of being judged? Or worse, of fear it will be used against you? You’ll actually be surprised to know that there are a lot of people silently struggling without getting the help and support they need. It’s a very personal decision to share your Mental Health condition to others. Truthfully, not everyone will be open minded and educated enough to grasp the severity of Mental Health struggles. And another sad truth is, not everyone will be kind or understanding about it. Some people will judge you, some will make fun of you, some will call it “inarte” or acting like a “victim”. But at the end of the day, that proves only one thing. These are NOT your people. Being rude, inconsiderate or insensitive towards those struggling with mental health is a reflection of their character, not of your worth as a human being. And I assure you, there are kind beautiful souls out there who will understand you and love you for who you are.
Growing up in a generation where mental health was hardly talked about and labels were brushed under the rug, it’s been freeing to open up about my struggles both online and to the people I trust. I urge you to do the same in your own time and pace. It’s absolutely liberating to be in social circles that are supportive, understanding and caring of my Mental Health struggles.And I can honestly say, i’ve never been happier than I am now.
That being said, these labels do NOT define you. Whether you’re suffering from Social Anxiety Disorder, ADHD, Autism, Clinical Depression, Bipolar Disorder, BPD, Schizophrenia etc.. its just a label, and it does not mean you can never be successful or live a happy life. Some of the most brilliant minds suffered from Mental Health conditions- Van Gogh was bipolar, Greta Thunberg suffers from Autism. Celebrities like Kanye West, Selena Gomez struggle with Bipolar Disorder, while Lady Gaga and JK Rowling struggle with Clinical Depression. If they can overcome their Mental Health struggles, you can too.
That being said, I truly believe the most important step is self acceptance and speaking your truth. Honor your condition as a part of who you are, and claim your power over it. Embrace your “label”, it’s nothing to be ashamed of and it is just a word. The moment you stop caring what people think is the moment you really start living. Empower yourself by speaking your truth.