Have you ever been on the ocean or a really deep lake? The waves can be overwhelming. And you may start to feel as though the shore doesn’t exist. But the worst part is the unknown depths below you. Any light that exists at the surface gets swallowed up only a few feet below the surface.
The engulfing sense of despair that eats your happiness and resolve to do anything isn’t that different from the deep waters. Drowning in despair feels like the only natural outcome.
In moments like these, the instinct to reach for any form of flotation device becomes a critical step towards survival. But in the realm of mental health and well-being, many don’t even know what a lifeline looks like, let alone how to ask for it.
Identifying When You’re Drowning
The first step towards seeking help is recognizing that you’re in over your head. It’s about acknowledging that the waves of sadness, anxiety, or stress are too big to tackle alone. This realization often comes with its own set of challenges, as admitting vulnerability can feel gross or foolish. But even the strongest swimmers need a life jacket in rough seas. Admitting you need help is not the same as being weak. The people who grow stronger are the ones who decide to get help when they begin to feel overwhelmed. But “help” doesn’t have to mean “being rescued.” Sometimes, it means just getting the right tools to make you more capable.
Reaching Out for a Lifeline
- Communication
Effective communication can be a beacon of hope. It starts with opening up to someone you trust, be it a friend, family member, or a support group. The act of sharing your feelings, fears, and thoughts can be profoundly liberating. It’s about making the invisible visible and the unsaid spoken. But how do you start such a conversation? Begin with, “I’ve been feeling overwhelmed and could really use someone to talk to.”
- Information
Seeking out reputable sources of information on mental health can provide clarity and understanding of what you’re experiencing. Websites, books, and online forums dedicated to mental health awareness can offer insights and stories from others who have experienced similar situations. Knowledge empowers you to recognize symptoms, understand your feelings, and take informed steps towards recovery. And if you’re the kind of person who wants to own every aspect of your journey, this is a great tool to increase your capabilities.
- Professional Support
Sometimes, you just need someone to listen without judgment and without making it personal. This is when reaching out to a professional (therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists) becomes crucial. Professional support offers a structured approach to dealing with your mental health challenges without the pressure of speaking to someone like a family member or close friend. And having a professional means you don’t have to worry about whether the advice is worth listening to. In fact, we’re not here to give you advice. We’re here to support you and work with you to figure out what you need and where you need to go in your recovery journey.
Conclusion
Reaching the tipping point when you feel your worst isn’t the end of your journey; it’s a crucial moment of transformation where you can become a better version of yourself. You don’t have to drown in depression. And you don’t even have to hold onto hope. We can hold onto you and your hope, it’s what we’re here for.
If any of this has connected with you, you’re more than welcome to come sit by our fireplace and chat. We’d love to listen and be the support you need to find your way back to shore.
