Common Fears About Talking About Mental Health and How to Overcome Them

Facing Your Fears: Why It’s Okay to Talk About Mental Health

Overcoming Fear to Have an Open Dialogue About Mental Health

"Every time you avoid talking about mental health, you lose a piece of yourself."

In this post, we will explore the reasons behind this fear, share effective strategies to foster honest conversations, and highlight the positive impacts of openly discussing mental health. By addressing our fears together, we can create a supportive environment for everyone.

Fears That Arise With Mental Health Discussions:

Fear often keeps us from discussing mental health openly, but breaking this silence is crucial. Overcoming the fear of having an open dialogue about mental health can lead to:

• Understanding 
• Support
• Healing

Some common fears include:

• Stigma and judgment: This includes judgments and assumptions made about people with mental illness. Keep in mind, that even though you have a mental illness does not mean that you do not direct those stigmas and judgments toward yourself.
• Lack of understanding: This fear is pretty straightforward and simply means that either you do not understand the symptoms of mental illness or those around you don't. This might include friends, family, or co-workers.
• Vulnerability: It can be scary to be vulnerable to open up about your thoughts and experiences with your mental health. This even includes talking to those closest to you.
• Repercussions at work or school: Some coworkers or peers may judge you and/or treat you differently when you share your mental health experiences.

Not acknowledging or addressing these fears makes it harder to build trust, feel safe to be vulnerable, and does not create a safe space to discuss mental health and mental illness.

Breaking the Silence: How to Talk About Mental Health Without Fear

• Educate yourself and others
• Find supportive systems
• Practice communications

I have had my struggles with overcoming fear and sharing my experiences with mental health. I want to educate others about the reality of mental illness as opposed to the stereotypes or stigmas. Whenever I am allowed to share my perspective I make sure to come from a place of grace and patience.

Final Thoughts About Discussing Mental Health Without Fear

People who don't understand mental illness and mental health in general, need people like you and me to continue to raise awareness and bridge the gap. Start small, you don't have to go to the top of any rooftops and shout your story.  

I started with another mom who I see at the bus stop every morning and it turns out our mental health journies are very similar. Start by speaking to a trusted friend or relative, you can also consider speaking to a therapist or another licensed mental health professional. Support groups and other trusted social networks can help you become more comfortable.

Let's all work together to continue creating safe spaces and supportive environments to foster mental health discussions! Let's break the stigma and raise mental health awareness!

Thank you for stopping by! Until next time remember that you are not alone in your feelings or experiences, I've got your back!

The information in the blog is for educational purposes only. This is not a substitute for professional help. If you are concerned about your mental health, consider seeking support from a licensed mental health professional.

For additional information about the topics discussed consider visiting the link below:

1. Better Health Channel (2024)
2. American Psychiatric Association (2024)
3. PSYCH Central (2024)
4. CDC (2024)