The Don't Ask (How I Am), Don't Tell Policy of Mental Illness
“How are you?”
This is the question people ask but don’t really want to know.
Responses should only be short and upbeat.
“I am good!”
“How are you?”
That question is supposed to be met with a much deeper expression than a surface-level response has to offer.
I’m fed up putting on a fake smile and saying I’m “good” or “OK” or “just fine.”
But at the same time, I don’t want to burden people with how I really feel.
For me this means constantly living in a state of anxiety, fighting waves of stress.
Swimming with a current of lies is exhausting and suffocating.
Alas, I want to be high on a mountain listening to the echoes of truth that tell the world…
I am not good! Help me! I’m drowning! I am dead inside! I am empty of feeling! Show me pain! I am a monster! I’m hopeless!
It is OK to not be OK.
Reach out.
Tell the grueling truth.
Help yourself.
Accept yourself.
Love yourself and all your unique quirks.
If you or someone you know needs help, please visit the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. You can also reach the Crisis Text Line by texting “START” to 741-741. Head here for a list of crisis centers around the world.
The Crisis Text Line is looking for volunteers! If you’re interesting in becoming a Crisis Counselor, you can learn more information here.
I am all about that busy mom life, but I find time to write because it is how I connect back with my own soul and take a pause from the hustle and bustle. Writing is my therapy. I live life with words as a lifestyle. I love the arts and am creative in many ways. I enjoy sharing my feelings and thoughts through writing. I’m living in the moment and not looking back.
lacy-webb