Pathways to Healing

11/23/2024

Our excellent Saturday adventure with Kirsten Olsen

05/21/2024

Trying to change yourself to make someone else happy or comfortable denies the reality of who we are. We can never know if someone really cares if what they are relating to is The Mask.

05/19/2024

The Stigma of Mental Illness
It’s time we talked about the stigma surrounding mental health issues. The National Institute of Mental Health (NAMI) estimates that in the United States in 2021, over 21 million people had at least one serious depressive episode and over 19 million had an anxiety disorder. At least 1/3 of Americans have symptoms of anxiety and depression even if they are not formally diagnosed. Despite these high numbers, mental health issues are “no-go” areas for a lot of people. Say you have surgery – friends are coming over with food, flowers, well-wishes – but if you have a mental health crisis, chances are they will look the other way.
The effects of stigmatizing mental health issues can be as debilitating as the issues themselves. Some people may be denied participation in certain activities or professions, or they may be viewed as “weak” or “fragile” by others who do not know how to approach and interact with them. According to the American Psychiatric Association, over half of people with mental health issues delay or avoid treatment altogether out of concern of being judged or penalized on the job, in relationships, or in other areas of life. Misconceptions among the general public about mental illness – such as it makes people dangerous, unreliable, or incompetent – are due to lack of public awareness. In certain cultural groups, pressure to present as “okay” may be stronger than others and people who are struggling with daily functions because of a mental health issue may be looked down upon as weak, or difficult. People who could benefit from receiving help often self-stigmatize, believing that if they were stronger, they could just “muscle through it” or think their way to a more positive outlook. This can have adverse effects on self-esteem and confidence, and lead to social withdrawal and loss of hope.
Everyone can play a role in reducing stigma by taking the time to educate themselves and others, talk openly about mental illness, and show compassion for people who may be struggling. Words matter – so be mindful of the words you use, for example, “crazy” is not an appropriate term to describe someone who has mental health issues. Family members can seek counseling and guidance for themselves to be able to understand and help empower a family member who has an issue. The end goal is to empower individuals to seek and make use of available help.

04/07/2024

Dare to dream. Find a direction. Set goals. When all else fails, if you have somewhere to go, it will get you out of bed in the morning.

03/30/2024

You can do it.

09/30/2023

A little light insight for a Saturday morning:

“Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.” — Carl Jung

08/23/2023

11/01/2022

Sometimes you try and try and cannot seem to get through to people, but even if they are not ready to receive your warmth, your understanding and compassion, never underestimate the power of planting that tiny seed that, when the ground is ripe, will begin to grow.

10/11/2022

Help is available if you reach out... one day at a time.

09/11/2022

If you think someone you know is thinking of su***de, don't be afraid to ask. Direct questioning - Are you thinking of committing su***de? Do you have a plan to do it? Do you have everything you need to carry out your plan? When do you plan to do it? may be uncomfortable, but it can save lives.

988 Su***de and Crisis Lifeline is up and running across the United States to provide someone to talk to if you or someone you know is in crisis.