Talking About Mental Illness

Talking about mental illness should be easy as talking about any other illness. Often times with mental illness people are reluctant to go to a medical professional. This is because mental illness still carries a stigma, and we are all afraid of being stigmatized. I have been there and so I am no stranger to this. 

Breaking Free Of The Stigma!!

The most freeing moment of my life was being able to speak up and and say I need help. 

I am a member of the African American community and especially in our community we struggle with asking for help with mental illness. Also, admitting that we may need help may also be difficult. We some how have to grasp on to the notion that there is power in asking for help. Understand that I am not pointing the finger at anyone. I just want us to get a deeper understanding that there is power in seeking help for mental illness. 

I See Hope!!

In the last 5 years I see that we are making head way with speaking up more about mental health. I have also seen near by towns and college campuses created a stigma free community, to let others know that you are safe from judgment here. This has been a highlight to me, I hope to see more towns, colleges and work places adopted these safe zones for individuals with mental illness. We still have a way to go but I am happy about the progress. I am looking forward to the day when mental health services cost the same as getting a yearly physical exam. Why should mental illness be treated any differently than physical illnesses? I see hope ahead, I wish that everyone can afford the mental health care that they deserve. 

Walk With Me, This Is What I Did

Taking Time To Smell The Roses

I needed time away from the news and away from the house. I needed to decompress and see something else besides the house and my backyard. my family and I visit a local park and walk the trail. It was nice to be outside and be around other people with social distancing of course. The fresh air was amazing, even though we had to wear a mask. I only wore a mask when I was close to others and I simply remove the mask when I was away from others.

exercise has a calming effect on me and a walk was just what the doctor ordered. My children also enjoyed the walk and they asked to go again. At this point we can all use some fresh air and I plan on getting out of the house at least 3 times a week. Some fresh air and exercise puts everyone in a good mood. Here is a picture of me on my walk on the trail.

I Am Going Stir-Crazy In Quarantine!!!!

Yes, I was going stir-crazy staying home everyday in the summer.
We have a pool and other entertainment, but just staying home and nothing else is starting to take a hold on me. I had to get out of the house more often, staying in the house is starting to affect my mental health.

Don't get me wrong! I enjoy relaxing at home, but sometimes I need to get out!

To get over my stir-craziness, my family and I decided to go to mall, we took our children to get some Ice cream. We took all the precautions to keep ourselves safe. We wore masks and sanitize our hands often. I have been trying to keep my family safe from this virus by staying home, however, I have to also remember to take care of my mental health.

It was great to get out and see other people and have a change of scenery. After, my children had Ice cream we did some shopping. Getting out and having a change in scenery is just what I needed. I have to plan more activities l include leaving the house. The world is scary, but I can't stay in a bubble forever. My mental health is just as important as my physical health. As long as I take precautions to keep my family safe that is the most important thing. Looking forward to what adventures the summer holds.

Fighting The Fears Of The Pandemic

Fears Of The Pandemic Is Real!

For the first time in the pandemic I had to visit the local hospital.
Going to the Emergency room, is hard enough and having to go in a pandemic is especially difficult.
I was in otter fear of going to the hospital for any reason because of the pandemic.
like many people, I was in fear of coming in contact with anyone that have the Corona virus.
I have a family member that was in need of medical care, so staying home was not an option.

I was terrified of going to the hospital that is a hot bed for diseases. Having no other options at the moment, I had my mask on and I carried hand sanitizer with me to clean my hands. I was constantly cleaning my hands, my identification cards and my cell phones. Every time I touched something or someone else touched my belongings I made sure I sanitize it. The hospital and doctor's office are two places where I have been dreading. However, I am learning how to take precautions to keep myself and my family safe.

I am proud of myself because I am fighting my fears in order to conduct my business. I won't allow fear to keep me from living.