Would you say you have a solid grip on your mental health and well-being? Do you practice regular self-care and maintain strong, supportive relationships? Have you ever seen a therapist? Even though we live in a society that is working to undo the negative stigmas surrounding mental wellness and enact legislation that ensures every American can adequately access treatment, the sad truth is that for most people the answer to all of those questions is “no”. However, leaving your mental health unchecked has serious consequences and shouldn’t be an ignored part of your life.
A worsening issue
Naturally, the primary concern of a neglected mental health disorder is the strong possibility that, if left continually untreated, the illness will get worse. Not only can symptoms increase—a fact which is especially problematic with more severe disorders—but coping mechanisms begin to break down as well. That means that life struggles can transform from cumbersome to debilitating. It’s important to maintain stability in your daily life, and neglecting your mental health has quite the opposite effect.
The ways that mental illnesses interferes with your daily life typically stem from their common impacts on you and your life. For example, worsening depression makes it increasingly difficult to get out of bed each day and also can cause lethargy. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety can both impact communication, making even minor interpersonal exchanges frightening ordeals. These two examples are tied together by how their symptoms make people unable to interact with others, lead to more and more withdrawal, and struggle to perform adequately at work. If you’re unable to address your mental health needs, your job security might be at risk. Unfortunately, there aren’t many legal protections available for job dismissals stemming from behavior caused by mental illness.
Taking a physical toll
While the primary concern of most mental illness is mental, unchecked and untreated mental health concerns can affect your physical well-being too. Chronic mental illness has been tied to increases in aches, pains, and physical ailments. It has also been tied to poorer health outcomes when it comes to heart disease and successfully treating cancer.
The vast majority of mental health disorders are commonly tied to heightened stress. Many mental illnesses result in elevated distress, which in turn aggravates mental and physical health, leading to even more stress. Stress is a overlooked killer that is frequently linked to increased risk of strokes, heart attacks, cardiovascular irregularities, and even obesity. Stress reduction is much easier said than done and often requires behavioral therapy and mental health treatment for maximum effect. There aren’t any laws that take into account the importance of counteracting workplace stress and qualifying for a stress leave is incredibly difficult.
Grave consequences
Merely discussing suicidal thoughts and feelings is incredibly difficult and requires a lot of bravery. Many mental health concerns come with increased thoughts and feelings related to suicide,and it only worsens if it is left unaddressed. In fact, over 90% of suicides are commonly attributed to untreated mental health disorders and struggles. Asking for help is hard and often comes with a sense of shame. It’s also important to remember that there are many therapists who will openly and professionally help you to explore, understand and work on your suicidal feelings.
There are many resources available to help you in your darkest moments. If you’re coping with suicidal feelings, reach out to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline. This free, confidential service is an amazing service, and the expert responders who take calls are compassionate and are able to find local resources to help you on your path to wellness. The Suicide Prevention Resource Center is another great life-saving service that is committed to education and to supporting local programs to make sure your needs are properly addressed.
Take control of your mental health
The first step towards having more control over your mental health is always one of the hardest. Luckily, there are plenty of therapists in DC that are ready to be your partner on the journey towards better mental wellness. Don’t leave your mental health unchecked because the negative impacts are serious and even life-threatening. It’s time to take care of yourself and put your mental health at the top of the list.
