In shadows deep,
my thoughts do dwell,
A restless mind,
an unseen spell.
Anxiety whispers in my ear,
With every breath,
it brings me near.
It’s a storm inside,
a raging sea,
Waves of worry crashing
over me.
My heart pounds fast,
my hands do shake,
A silent scream
with each breath I take.
To those who watch from the outside in,
It’s not a battle I chose to win.
It’s not just nerves or fleeting dread,
It’s a war that’s waged inside my head.
I wish you’d know, I wish you’d see,
The effort it takes just to be.
To step outside,
to face the day,
With fear that never fades away.
Patience, please,
with this weary soul,
Understanding can make me whole.
A gentle touch,
a kind embrace,
Can help me find a safer place.
Silent Scream: The Inner World of Anxiety
In moments dark,
your light shines through,
A friend who stays,
a love that’s true.
Anxiety’s grip,
though strong and tight,
Can’t dim the hope of morning light.
With you beside me,
hand in hand,
I find the strength to rise and stand.
- glennmarsden
When Your Mental Health Takes a Turn: Finding Help Without the Overwhelm
I remember the day my mental health took a turn. It was like a sudden, unexpected wave crashing over me, pulling me under and making it hard to breathe. The last thing I wanted to do was sift through endless online articles or read pamphlets filled with medical jargon. I needed help, but I needed it in a way that didn’t add to my already overwhelming state.
Here’s what I did, and I hope it helps you too.
Reach Out to Someone You Trust
The first step I took was reaching out to someone I trusted. For me, it was a close friend who had always been supportive and understanding. I didn’t need to explain everything in detail; just letting someone know that I was struggling was a huge relief. They didn’t try to fix everything for me, but their presence and willingness to listen without judgment made a world of difference.
Visit Your Primary Care Doctor
If the thought of researching specialists or therapists feels too daunting, start with your primary care doctor. I made an appointment with mine and simply told them that I was not feeling mentally well. They were able to provide initial support and refer me to a mental health professional. Sometimes, having that direct, human connection can be more reassuring than navigating through countless online resources.
Keep It Simple
When I was at my lowest, even the smallest tasks felt monumental. Instead of overwhelming myself with grand plans to get better, I focused on very simple actions. This could be something as basic as taking a shower, eating a healthy meal, or going for a short walk. These small steps helped me build a foundation to gradually tackle larger challenges.
Utilise Crisis Resources
In moments of acute distress, I found that crisis resources were invaluable. Hotlines like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) or texting “HELLO” to 741741 connected me to trained professionals who could help immediately. These services are available 24/7, and sometimes, just having someone to talk to in those critical moments can make all the difference.
Journaling Your Feelings
I started keeping a journal where I could freely express my thoughts and emotions. Writing things down helped me process what I was going through without the pressure of having to articulate it perfectly to someone else. It also served as a way to track my progress and recognise patterns in my mental health.
Prioritise Self-Care
I realised that taking care of my mental health required me to prioritise self-care in a way I hadn’t before. This meant setting boundaries, saying no when I needed to, and engaging in activities that brought me peace. Whether it was reading a book, practicing mindfulness, or spending time in nature, these self-care practices became essential in my journey towards healing.
Seek Professional Help When Ready
When I felt a bit more stable, I did eventually seek professional help. This step was crucial for my long-term well-being. Therapy provided me with tools and strategies to manage my mental health more effectively. If this step feels overwhelming, remember that there are various types of therapy and therapists; finding the right fit can take time, but it’s worth it.
Be Kind to Yourself
Most importantly, I learned to be kind to myself. Mental health struggles are not a sign of weakness, and it’s okay to have bad days. Progress is not always linear, and setbacks are part of the journey. Acknowledging this and giving myself grace was vital in my healing process.
If your mental health takes a turn, know that you are not alone. Start with simple, manageable steps and reach out to those you trust. Utilise available resources and take care of yourself, both physically and mentally. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and it’s okay to take things one day at a time. Your mental health matters, and there is support out there for you.
The Rising Tide: Understanding the Increase in Mental Health Issues Among Kids
The mental health of our children is a growing concern, with increasing numbers of young people facing challenges like anxiety, depression, and stress. Studies indicate that mental health issues among kids are on the rise globally. This article delves into the factors contributing to this trend, backed by research, and explores what can be done to address it.
The Scope of the Issue
Recent statistics paint a worrying picture of the state of mental health among children and adolescents:
Rising Diagnoses: According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), up to 20% of children and adolescents worldwide experience mental health disorders.
Increased Anxiety and Depression: A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that the prevalence of anxiety and depression in children has significantly increased over the past decade.
Suicide Rates: The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10-24 in the United States.
Factors Contributing to the Rise
Several factors contribute to the rising mental health issues among children:
Academic Pressure: The intense focus on academic performance and standardized testing can create high levels of stress and anxiety in students. A study by the National Education Association (NEA) found that academic pressure is a significant source of stress for children.
Social Media and Technology: The pervasive use of social media and technology has been linked to increased anxiety, depression, and poor self-esteem among children. A study published in Clinical Psychological Science found a correlation between increased screen time and higher levels of mental health issues in adolescents.
Bullying and Cyberbullying: Traditional bullying and cyberbullying are significant contributors to mental health problems in children. Research by the National Bullying Prevention Center indicates that children who are bullied are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
Family Dynamics and Socioeconomic Factors: Family stressors, including parental mental health issues, divorce, and financial instability, can impact a child's mental well-being. The American Psychological Association (APA) highlights that children in low-income families are more likely to face mental health challenges.
Lack of Access to Mental Health Services: Despite the increasing need, access to mental health services for children remains inadequate. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, many children do not receive the mental health care they need due to barriers such as cost, lack of providers, and stigma.
Addressing the Crisis: What Can Be Done?
To combat the rising mental health issues among children, a multifaceted approach is necessary:
Early Education and Intervention: Schools and communities should prioritize early education on mental health. Programs that teach emotional regulation, resilience, and coping strategies can equip children with the tools they need to manage their mental health.
Parental Involvement: Parents play a crucial role in their child's mental well-being. Encouraging open communication, providing emotional support, and seeking professional help when needed can make a significant difference.
Mental Health Resources in Schools: Schools should have readily available mental health resources, including counselors and support groups. Integrating mental health education into the curriculum can help normalize discussions around mental health and reduce stigma.
Reducing Academic Pressure: Schools and educators should work towards creating a balanced academic environment that emphasizes overall well-being over high-stakes testing and competition.
Safe Online Spaces: Educating children on the responsible use of technology and social media, and creating safe online environments can mitigate the negative impact of digital interactions.
Accessible Mental Health Care: Ensuring that mental health services are accessible to all children, regardless of socioeconomic status, is essential. This includes increasing funding for mental health programs and reducing barriers to care.
The increase in mental health issues among children is a complex and multifaceted problem that requires a comprehensive and compassionate approach. By understanding the contributing factors and implementing effective strategies, we can create a supportive environment that fosters the mental well-being of our children. The Imperfectly Perfect Campaign is making significant strides in this area, offering valuable resources and insights through its school talks and children's books, and inspiring a generation to embrace their imperfections and thrive.
Contact the team today to find out about our school programs at generalenquiries@imperfectlyperfectcampaign.org
The Impact of the Imperfectly Perfect Campaign: Fostering Global Conversations on Mental Health
The Imperfectly Perfect Campaign has made a significant impact on the global conversation around mental health by teaming up with some of the world's biggest names across entertainment, sports, the corporate world, and leadership. Since its inception, the campaign has touched the lives of over 12 million people worldwide, raising awareness and breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health.
A Powerful Collaboration
One of the key factors behind the campaign's success is its collaboration with influential figures from various fields. By collaborating with celebrities, athletes, corporate leaders, and mental health professionals, the Imperfectly Perfect Campaign has been able to reach a diverse and extensive audience. These collaborations have not only amplified the campaign's message but have also provided a platform for open and honest discussions about mental health.
Breaking the Silence
The involvement of high-profile individuals has been instrumental in breaking the silence around mental health issues. When well-known personalities share their personal struggles and experiences, it sends a powerful message that mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of their status or success. This has helped to normalize conversations about mental health and encourage more people to seek help and support.
Raising Awareness
The campaign's reach has been extraordinary, touching the lives of over 12 million people globally. This widespread awareness has been achieved through various mediums, including social media, podcasts, live events, and the campaign's best-selling children's book, The Magic of Imperfections plus anthology. By leveraging these platforms, the campaign has been able to disseminate its message to a vast and varied audience.
Educational Impact
Education is a core component of the Imperfectly Perfect Campaign. Through its school talks and workshops, the campaign has directly impacted thousands of students, providing them with the tools and knowledge to understand and manage their mental health. The campaign's educational initiatives have emphasized the importance of self-acceptance, emotional well-being, and resilience.
Celebrity Endorsements
Endorsements from celebrities and public figures have significantly enhanced the campaign's credibility and reach. For instance, actors, sports stars, and corporate leaders have shared their stories through the campaign's platforms, offering their unique perspectives on mental health. These endorsements have not only attracted media attention but have also inspired countless individuals to open up about their own mental health journeys.
Fostering a Supportive Community
One of the campaign's most significant achievements has been the creation of a supportive and inclusive community. By fostering an environment where people feel safe to share their stories and experiences, the Imperfectly Perfect Campaign has helped to build a global network of individuals who support and uplift each other. This sense of community has been vital in reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues and encouraging open dialogue.
Data and Statistics
The impact of the Imperfectly Perfect Campaign can be seen in various statistics:
12 Million Lives Touched: The campaign's message has reached over 12 million people worldwide, raising awareness and promoting mental health education.
15,000 Students Impacted: Through its school talks and workshops, the campaign has directly impacted the lives of over 15,000 students, providing them with valuable mental health resources.
Global Reach: The campaign has a presence in countries such as Australia, New Zealand, the USA, and the UK, making it a truly global initiative.
Celebrity Engagement: High-profile endorsements from celebrities have garnered significant media attention, further amplifying the campaign's message.
The Imperfectly Perfect Campaign has made a profound impact on the global conversation around mental health. By collaborating with influential figures from various fields, the campaign has been able to reach a vast audience, raise awareness, and break down the stigma associated with mental health issues. Through its educational initiatives, community-building efforts, and high-profile endorsements, the campaign continues to inspire and empower individuals to embrace their imperfections and prioritize their mental well-being. As the campaign grows and evolves, its message of self-acceptance, resilience, and support will undoubtedly continue to touch the lives of millions more.
