Empowering Mental Health: The Importance of Supporting Others

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Supporting others with Mental Health Issues – Learn the significance of providing support to individuals with mental health challenges, the importance of reducing stigma, and practical ways to help, along with available community resources and the benefits of meditation for mental well-being.

mens mental health support

Understanding the Significance of Supporting Others with Mental Health Issues

Supporting individuals with mental health challenges is paramount for their overall well-being and recovery journey. By offering a listening ear, practical assistance, and emotional support, friends and family members can significantly impact the lives of those struggling with mental health issues. For example, simply being present and showing empathy towards someone sharing their mental health struggles can create a safe and supportive environment for them to open up and seek help.

Moreover, understanding the importance of supporting others with mental health challenges goes beyond just offering assistance; it involves actively engaging in their journey towards mental well-being. Research has shown that individuals who receive consistent support during their struggles with mental health are more inclined to participate in treatment and are more likely to experience positive outcomes. By fostering a sense of community, providing a non-judgmental space for individuals to express themselves, and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, the support system plays a pivotal role in the recovery process.

Importance of Supporting Others with Mental Health Issues

Supporting someone with mental health issues goes beyond offering a helping hand; it is about creating a safe and nurturing environment for them. When individuals feel supported, they are less likely to experience feelings of isolation and are more inclined to share their struggles openly. For example, by actively listening to a friend dealing with anxiety, you can help them feel heard and understood, which can alleviate their sense of loneliness and promote emotional well-being.

Moreover, research has shown that individuals who have a strong support system in place are more likely to engage in treatment and have better treatment outcomes. For instance, a study by SAMHSA revealed that individuals with mental health challenges who receive support from loved ones are more motivated to seek professional help and follow through with treatment plans, leading to improved mental health outcomes. This highlights the vital role that friends, family, and communities play in the recovery journey of individuals struggling with mental health issues.

Furthermore, providing support to those facing mental health challenges contributes to the broader goal of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. By offering empathy, understanding, and practical assistance, we create a culture of compassion and acceptance, where individuals feel comfortable seeking help without fear of judgment. This supportive environment not only benefits the individual directly but also fosters a sense of community and togetherness in addressing mental health issues collectively.

Ways to Provide Support and Help

When supporting someone with mental health issues, active listening is a powerful tool that involves not just hearing but fully engaging with what the individual is expressing. It entails giving your undivided attention, showing empathy by acknowledging their feelings, and refraining from passing judgment on their experiences or emotions. For example, when a friend shares their struggles with anxiety, active listening would involve responding with statements like, “I hear you, and your feelings are valid. How can I best support you right now?” This approach creates a safe and supportive space for open communication, allowing the individual to feel heard and understood.

In addition to active listening, providing practical help can significantly impact someone’s mental well-being. Simple acts like assisting with household chores, running errands, or preparing meals can alleviate the daily stressors that individuals dealing with mental health issues may find overwhelming. For instance, offering to do grocery shopping for a friend experiencing depression can ease the burden of everyday tasks and provide much-needed relief. By offering tangible support, you not only show that you care but also help lessen the practical challenges that can exacerbate mental health struggles.

Moreover, encouraging individuals to prioritize self-care practices is essential for their overall well-being. Suggesting activities like regular exercise, mindfulness meditation, or maintaining a balanced diet can positively impact their mental health. For example, recommending a daily walk in nature to a loved one coping with stress can promote relaxation and emotional balance. By emphasizing the importance of self-care, you empower individuals to engage in activities that nurture their mental, emotional, and physical health, contributing to a holistic approach to well-being.

mens mental health support

Community Resources Available for Mental Health Support

Accessing community resources is essential for individuals facing mental health challenges. In addition to organizations like Mental Health America and SAMHSA’s National Helpline, there are various local resources that can provide support tailored to specific needs. For instance, many communities have mental health clinics or non-profit organizations that offer counseling services, support groups, and educational workshops. These resources can be valuable in providing individuals with a network of professionals and peers who understand their struggles and can offer guidance.

Furthermore, digital platforms have become increasingly popular for mental health support. Websites and apps like Talkspace, BetterHelp, and 7 Cups provide online therapy sessions, peer support forums, and self-help tools accessible from the comfort of one’s home. These virtual resources can be particularly beneficial for individuals who may have difficulty accessing traditional in-person services or prefer the anonymity and convenience of online support networks. For example, someone experiencing social anxiety may find it easier to engage in therapy through a virtual platform, breaking down barriers to seeking help.

It’s important to recognize that community resources extend beyond clinical support. Local community centers, religious organizations, and recreational groups often host events and activities that promote mental well-being. These social outlets can reduce feelings of isolation, boost self-esteem, and create a sense of belonging. Participating in community-based initiatives not only supports mental health but also fosters social connections and a sense of purpose, which are crucial elements in overall well-being.

Benefits of Mental Health Meditation

Engaging in mental health meditation practices offers a myriad of benefits that can positively impact individuals struggling with their mental well-being. For instance, mindfulness meditation, a common technique, encourages individuals to focus on the present moment without judgment. By incorporating mindfulness into their daily routine, individuals can cultivate a greater awareness of their thoughts and emotions, leading to reduced stress and anxiety levels.

Moreover, deep breathing exercises, often integrated into meditation practices, have been shown to have a profound impact on mental health. By practicing deep breathing techniques during meditation sessions, individuals can activate their body’s relaxation response, which in turn helps lower heart rate, reduce blood pressure, and alleviate symptoms of depression. This simple yet powerful technique can be a valuable tool for individuals navigating mental health challenges, offering a sense of calm and tranquility amidst life’s stressors.

Additionally, the regular practice of meditation can contribute to enhanced emotional resilience, allowing individuals to better cope with adversities and uncertainties in life. By dedicating time to meditation, individuals can strengthen their ability to bounce back from setbacks, manage difficult emotions, and maintain a positive outlook. This increased emotional resilience not only benefits mental well-being but also fosters a sense of empowerment and self-efficacy in facing life’s challenges.

Understanding Men’s Mental Health Challenges

Men face unique mental health challenges due to societal norms that associate masculinity with strength and emotional suppression. These expectations often create barriers for men in seeking help for their mental well-being, as they may fear being perceived as weak or vulnerable. For instance, traditional gender roles dictate that men should remain stoic and resilient in the face of adversity, making it difficult for them to express their emotions openly or seek professional support when needed. This stigma surrounding men’s mental health can lead to feelings of isolation and exacerbate existing mental health conditions.

Moreover, the impact of these societal pressures is evident in the alarming statistics related to male suicide rates. Men are significantly more likely to die by suicide than women, highlighting the urgent need to address the specific mental health needs of men. For example, factors such as limited emotional outlets, reluctance to seek help, and the normalization of toxic masculinity contribute to the higher prevalence of suicide among men. By understanding and challenging these harmful stereotypes, we can create a more supportive environment that encourages men to prioritize their mental well-being and seek assistance without judgment.

By embracing sensitivity and vulnerability as strengths rather than weaknesses, men can cultivate healthier attitudes towards mental health. Encouraging open conversations about emotions, promoting self-care practices, and fostering empathetic relationships can empower men to navigate their mental health challenges effectively. When men feel safe to express their feelings and vulnerabilities, they are more likely to engage in self-care routines, seek professional help, and build resilience in the face of adversity. Embracing sensitivity not only benefits individual men but also contributes to breaking down the stigma surrounding men’s mental health, ultimately creating a more inclusive and supportive society.

Addressing Mental Health Stigma and Advocacy

Advocacy plays a crucial role in addressing mental health stigma by raising awareness about the complexities of mental health issues and the importance of seeking help without judgment. For instance, campaigns like “Movember” have successfully shed light on men’s mental health challenges, encouraging open discussions and promoting access to mental health resources for men. By actively advocating for mental health awareness, individuals can help normalize conversations about emotional well-being, fostering a supportive environment for those struggling with mental health issues.

Moreover, engaging in advocacy initiatives, such as lobbying for improved mental health services and resources, can lead to tangible changes in policy and funding allocation. For example, organizations like Mental Health America actively advocate for legislation that supports mental health parity, ensuring that mental health services receive the same level of importance and coverage as physical health services. These advocacy efforts not only benefit individuals in need of mental health support but also contribute to the broader goal of creating a society that values and prioritizes mental well-being for all its members. By participating in advocacy campaigns and initiatives, individuals can play a significant role in shaping a more empathetic and supportive environment for those dealing with mental health challenges.

mens mental health support

Promoting a Supportive and Empathetic Environment for Mental Health Well-being

Creating a supportive and empathetic environment is essential for promoting mental health well-being among individuals facing mental health challenges. By offering a listening ear and non-judgmental support, friends and family members can significantly impact the recovery journey of their loved ones. For instance, simply being present and showing understanding can help individuals feel less isolated and more encouraged to seek professional help.

Moreover, community resources such as mental health hotlines and online support groups play a vital role in providing immediate assistance and a sense of belonging to those in need. These resources not only offer a platform for individuals to share their experiences but also provide valuable guidance and coping strategies for managing mental health conditions[6]. For example, organizations like Mental Health America and SAMHSA offer a wide range of services, from crisis intervention to treatment support, contributing to a holistic approach to mental health care.

In conclusion, fostering a supportive and empathetic environment is not only beneficial for individuals with mental health challenges but also helps break the stigma surrounding mental health in society. By advocating for mental health awareness and promoting access to resources, we can create a more inclusive and understanding community that prioritizes emotional well-being and supports those in need. Ultimately, it is through collective efforts and compassion that we can make a positive impact on individuals’ mental health journeys and contribute to a healthier and more empathetic society.

Embracing Sensitivity in Men’s Mental Health Journey

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In today’s fast-paced world, men’s mental health often goes under-discussed, leaving many to navigate their emotions in silence. The stigma surrounding sensitivity in men can lead to a host of mental health challenges. However, embracing sensitivity can be a powerful tool for personal growth and mental well-being. Our latest video, “Embracing Sensitivity: A Man’s Guide to Mental Health & Personal Growth,” dives deep into this topic, offering insights and strategies for men to reclaim their lives through the power of sensitivity.


Key Highlights from the Video:

  • Understanding Sensitivity: Sensitivity is not a weakness; it’s a strength that allows for deep connections and self-awareness. We explore how sensitivity impacts men’s mental health and why it’s crucial for personal development.
  • Challenges for Highly Sensitive Persons: Many men face unique challenges due to their sensitivity, including acute empathy, overstimulation, and emotional overwhelm. Our video offers practical advice on navigating these challenges and turning sensitivity into an advantage.
  • Advantages of Being Highly Sensitive: Sensitivity allows for a greater capacity for empathy, deeper relationships, and an enriched sense of the world around us. We highlight the benefits of sensitivity and how to leverage them in daily life.
  • Essential Mental Health Routines: Establishing mental health routines is critical for anyone looking to improve their well-being. We provide viewers with a guide to creating routines that prioritize self-care, including:
    • Meditation and mindfulness practices
    • The importance of positive self-talk
    • Techniques for building emotional resilience
    • Strategies for developing an awareness of emotions and feelings
  • Finding Meaning Through Kindness: The act of showing kindness and compassion not only benefits others but can also enhance one’s sense of purpose and self-worth. We discuss how these practices contribute to mental health and personal growth.

Why This Video Matters:

Men’s mental health is a critical issue that deserves attention and understanding. By breaking down the stigma and encouraging men to embrace their sensitivity, we open the door to a more empathetic and mentally healthy society. Our video aims to provide men with the tools they need to navigate their mental health journey with confidence and positivity.

Conclusion:

“Embracing Sensitivity: A Man’s Guide to Mental Health & Personal Growth” is more than just a video; it’s a call to action for men to recognize their sensitivity as a gift, not a burden. By addressing the challenges and highlighting the benefits of sensitivity, we hope to inspire men to embark on a journey of self-discovery and mental well-being. Remember, embracing your sensitivity can lead to a richer, more fulfilling life.

Empowering Men To Overcome The Stigma Of Mental Health

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Imagine walking through life with a heavy backpack that no one else can see. That’s the day-to-day reality for many men grappling with mental health issues—a journey often walked in silence due to an invisible yet burdensome stigma. The repercussions of this are profound, not just for the individuals but also for families and society at large. As we unpack the complexities of men’s mental health, we aim to foster an environment where the conversation is as open as the sky is wide. In doing so, we hope to chip away at the walls of stigma, brick by brick.

Through personal reflections and shared experiences, this article will navigate the landscape of mental health as it pertains to men. We’ll explore issues such as depression, anxiety, and the societal pressures that often silence those in need. By promoting understanding and empathy, we encourage a more inclusive dialogue. It’s time to extend a hand, to let men know they’re not alone, and to offer a beacon of hope in the often turbulent sea of mental well-being.

Understanding Men’s Mental Health

As I navigated the stormy seas of depression and anxiety, I often felt like an island, isolated by waves of societal expectations. Like many men, I was trapped in a cultural undertow that frowned upon emotional vulnerability. Society’s blueprint of masculinity—with its pillars of stoicism and self-reliance—can make reaching out for help feel like erecting a signal flare of weakness. 40% of men won’t talk about their mental health, often cloaked in the fear of being a burden or facing embarrassment.

The impact? It’s more than just personal turmoil; it echoes in our well-being. Men, who are far less likely than women to seek help, might wear a mask of aggression or numbness, unaware that these are cries for help from their mental health. It’s a sobering reality that men are over 3.5 times more likely to die by suicide than women, a stark indicator of the silent battle many face.

But there’s hope. Breaking these chains requires courage—a different kind of strength. It’s about redefining bravery, not as silence, but as the audacity to speak out and seek support. It’s a journey we can navigate together, with empathy as our compass and understanding as our map.

The Importance of Seeking Help

As someone who has navigated the stormy seas of depression and anxiety, I know firsthand the life raft that professional help can be. It’s a beacon in the fog, guiding us back to calmer waters. Seeking help for mental health issues is not just about finding relief; it’s about reclaiming the helm of your life. Yet, the waves of stigma can make it hard to reach out.

Imagine, one in five adults grappling with mental illness annually, with a staggering number being our brothers, fathers, and friends. Men are often the silent sufferers, less likely to seek help, with untreated mental illness leading to dire outcomes such as substance misuse or suicide. It’s time to shatter the chains of stigma and recognize that vulnerability is not a weakness but a courageous step towards wellness.

Let’s change the narrative together. Whether it’s for ourselves or the men in our lives, reaching out for professional help is a sign of strength. It’s an act of self-care that every person deserves, and it could be the most important step you ever take.

Understanding the Signs and Symptoms

Navigating the rough waters of mental health can be particularly challenging for men. Often, symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse lurk beneath the surface, masquerading as irritability or a relentless work ethic. Unlike women, who may openly express sadness or hopelessness, men might hide their distress behind a facade of excessive drinking or a sudden obsession with fitness. Recognizing these signs is crucial, as they can manifest differently than in women.

For men, the traditional strong-and-silent typecast can obscure the need for help. Yet, early detection is the lighthouse guiding one back to safer shores. Symptoms such as changes in sleep patterns, unexplained physical pain, or a short fuse can signal an underlying mental health issue. It’s a sign to seek professional help, and doing so is a testament to strength, not weakness. With treatment, the fog of mental health challenges can lift, revealing a clearer path ahead. If you or someone you know is showing these signs, it’s time to reach out—because every man deserves to live a life anchored in well-being, not weighed down by stigma.

Overcoming Stigma and Cultural Barriers

Imagine carrying a boulder up a hill, only to be told that boulders are for trucks, not people. That’s how stigma feels when it weighs on men’s mental health. The cultural barriers and stigma attached to mental health can be as crippling as the disorders themselves, often preventing men from seeking the help they need. These barriers are rooted in social misperceptions and reinforced by masculine norms that equate emotional vulnerability with weakness.

However, just like a boulder, stigma can be chipped away. Here are some practical tips for men to overcome these barriers:

  • Treat mental health as you would a physical injury—seek professional help without shame.
  • Find strength in vulnerability by sharing your experiences with trusted friends or family members.
  • Utilize online support forums to connect with others anonymously, sharing struggles and solutions.
  • Remember, seeking help is a sign of courage, not weakness—it’s the first step towards lifting the weight off your shoulders.

Access to treatment can begin with resources like the Addiction Center for dual diagnosis or local community centers that offer a range of services to men in crisis, without the fear of stigma. Let’s reframe the narrative around mental health together, one step at a time.

Promoting Mental Health and Well-being

Embarking on the journey to mental well-being can feel like scaling a mountain, but remember, every step towards self-care and self-acceptance is a step upwards. For us men, acknowledging that it’s okay to not be okay can be like lifting a weight off our shoulders. We often wrap ourselves in a cloak of stoicism, but it’s time to trade that for a shield of resilience, woven with the threads of support and professional guidance.

As someone who’s danced with depression and tangoed with anxiety, I’ve learned that the path to mental fitness is not a solo act. It’s a group performance that involves reaching out, whether that’s to friends, family, or mental health professionals. The notion that seeking help is a sign of weakness is as outdated as floppy disks. It’s a strength, a courageous step in taking control.

  • Start by setting aside time for activities that recharge your batteries—be it a sport, hobby, or simply a walk in the park.
  • Regularly check in with yourself; how are you really feeling? It’s like performing regular maintenance on your car—it’s essential for a smooth ride.
  • And if the road gets bumpy, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Like a GPS, a therapist can help navigate the complex highways of your mind.

Remember, your mental health is just as crucial as your physical health. So, let’s normalize self-care and support each other in this shared human experience.

Breaking Gender Stereotypes and Promoting Open Conversation

As a society, we often paint mental health with a broad brush, but the canvas of the male psyche is textured with nuances that gender stereotypes tend to ignore. The societal expectation of stoicism in men can turn into a straitjacket, constricting the flow of honest emotions and leaving a trail of unspoken anxieties. It’s time to cut the ties that bind men to outdated norms and foster a culture of openness where conversations about mental health are as natural as talking about the weather. Through my own journey grappling with the shadows of depression and the unease of anxiety, I’ve learned that vulnerability is not a weakness but a courageous first step towards healing. Let’s champion mental health awareness and education for men, and encourage them to share their stories and seek support. Remember, the weight of silent battles is heavy; it’s only in sharing our load that we can truly move forward.

Resources for Men’s Mental Health

As a man who has navigated the choppy waters of depression and anxiety, I know firsthand the importance of reaching out for support. The journey to mental well-being is a personal odyssey, one that may require the guidance of a seasoned professional or the camaraderie of a support group. Men’s mental health resources are a beacon of hope, readily available for those ready to start their healing voyage.

  • Immediate assistance is just a text away with the Crisis Text Line; send “HOME” to 741-741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
  • For a variety of treatment options, the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-622-4357 offers referrals to treatment centers and support groups.
  • Empower yourself with knowledge by downloading the “Navigating a Mental Health Crisis” guide from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

Don’t let stigma anchor you down. Clinical trials and innovative treatments are within reach, as are skilled therapists who specialize in men’s mental health. Whether it’s through HeadsUpGuys or Therapy for Black Men, help is out there. Remember, taking the helm of your mental health is not just brave; it’s a testament to your strength.

Reflection

As we’ve journeyed through the labyrinth of men’s mental health, it’s become clear that breaking the stigma is akin to lifting a weight off the shoulders of countless men. It’s imperative to continue this dialogue, to transform whispers into conversations and shadows into light. I’ve grappled with the twin specters of depression and anxiety myself, and I know that seeking help was like finding a life raft in a stormy sea. It’s not just about surviving; it’s about thriving.

To all the men out there, your mental well-being is a priority, not a luxury. It’s okay to not be okay, and it’s more than okay to reach out. The path to mental wellness is as unique as your fingerprint, and whether it’s through self-care, peer networks, or professional support, every step forward is a victory.

Let’s promise to be architects of hope, building bridges over the chasms of doubt and despair. Together, we can construct a world where every man has the support he needs to face his battles, and the strength to win them. Remember, your courage to face the darkness lights the way for others. You are not alone.

Finding Joy In Stressful Times

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Life is tough. It’s an endless battle of curve balls, highs, lows, experiences, and so much more. There’s so many expectations that we put on ourselves to be the best version of ourselves in the eyes of others. We struggle with stress and the inability to get out of our own heads. Are we good enough? Do we provide enough? Can we ever find some JOY when the world seems to be building up around us. Thats mental. It’s a trait that I hate to admit I “suffer” from. It’s personal and yet external at the same time. Finding the JOY in simple tasks might seem unachievable. So where is your JOY?

When times are tough we look for something to fill the gap, to bring some laughter and life lessons we can say we gave it our all. Recently, I became the coach of my son’s baseball team. I found a purpose that can be so impactful to the young minds that will shape our future. I find JOY even though it adds another item to my already stressful plate. Understanding that others depend on you is a path to self reflection and understanding that YOU are worth it. You can impact others. Others appreciate you. The smiles and thank you’s mean so much. Baseball was such a monumental piece of my life growing up. My dad and mom made sure I was able to be in team sports, they put their time on hold for me. As a result, I got to play in Cooperstown. I still have the ball from the game (homerun and grandslam) that helped us make it to the big show. I’ll never forget that day. I was 13. So, as I navigate each week I have the mindset that I can make dreams come true, establish kindness and collaboration, we can all experience that JOY.

I stress 3 rules that, after a couple of weeks, are impacting my son’s life:

  1. Be kind
  2. Be safe
  3. We are a TEAM, we WIN together

Those three rules are what I instill every time we meet.  Every practice that can be stressful to ensure it’s fulfilling, teaching the right things, how can this bring JOY, what do we all get out of a simple hour. Thats a win in my book. I see happiness, the new experiences, bringing community together for others. Stress comes in many forms and can consume/overwhelm/persist how we think about ourselves, but there is JOY in leaving our personal mental issues aside and provide life lessons to those that depend on us.

Understanding that stress can be overcome to provide JOY for others AND yourself is key to battling the inner voice telling you that you are not doing enough. It’s your super power that can be shared, it’s not yours alone. Bring joy to others and you’ll find that JOY will come back to you. Be a team player for your mind, be safe when you think of others, you can win too!

 

 

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You Got This – Self Motivation

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In most cases it is easy to feel defeated, overwhelmed, unworthy, not doing the right thing, being a poor example to others, the list goes on and on. That’s the problem with self reflection and the impact we have on our self-esteem. We’re tough, we’re mean, we’re respectable, we’re unable to accept that WE do a lot. We are so great in the eyes of many, but not in our own view. YOU ARE WORTHY!

As I go down this journey of self motivation it’s key to really digest WHY you are important, you are. Alot of times I find myself questioning my own self-worth throughout life. It could be easy to give up. It could be selfish to think of myself. It could be simple to look at others and compare. YOU ARE WORTHY!

So, this is a short post about self motivation and the keys to success about our internal demons and how they can control every day perspectives, BUT you can control it. You have to! YOU ARE WORTHY!

Why should i self reflect?

  • I’m a great person filled with compassion and expressive thought
  • I’m a son that was provided with amazing experiences thanks to my parents
  • I’m a Dad that always wants the best for the development of my children
  • I’m a husband that cares and respects my partner’s feelings
  • I’m a person, I have feelings, I can own my mistakes, I can always improve
  • I AM WORTHY of a happy life outside of anxiety and depression
  • I AM who I am, I have so much to give

The route to happiness is rooted in self motivation and as I repeat myself, YOU ARE WORTHY! Be YOU, be respectful of your own feelings, be a motivator of those around you.

 

 

Acceptance: choosing to live versus fight

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When I think back on all of the things that have molded me into who I am today: the pain, life lessons, happiness and joy, struggles, and the list goes on; I tend to hone in on the bad. Why did I do that? What made that outcome any better for others rather than me? Why me? Why now? Why can’t I choose happiness more? Why…….

The reality is that I still don’t know the answer to any of those questions regardless of the outcomes. My mind plays tricks ensuring that I remember all of the pain and dark moments. It convinces me that to bypass everything amazing in my life to focus on the what-ifs. It’s a terrible way to live. It’s a constant circle of wanting to be optimistic, wanting to be more, wanting to be the person everyone else sees me as. I want to accept myself.

So there’s the choice: Accept that you can be happy and that bad times truly do make you stronger. Accept that you have the courage and tools to get back on track. Accept the ability in yourself to find happiness even in the bad. Accept the choice to change….or this mental hell will eventually take its toll.

“Understanding is the first step to acceptance, and only with acceptance can there be recovery.”

So today I have to understand that my mental journey is mot one I have to do alone. It is filled with support as long as I can accept it as part of my process. I have to ask for help. I can do this! Understanding that the voices in my head cannot define me is the biggest struggle I have. I believe, to some extent, that I am not good enough for my family, my job, my future, even though everything around me tells me differently. The people that love me, the random praise for working hard, being someone that others can confide in. Now why can’t I be that confidant for myself? Should be easy, right? Doubtful, but all I can do is try.

This is just another step in my process to acceptance. Writing these words and defining how I see myself today can only help add context in to where I need to go. I have too much to lose in this life to give up now.

10 ways to practice self-acceptance

A good place to start is to think of the things that make you special. Ask yourself how these differences may benefit you in the future and how they add value to your life.

It’s important not to focus on the things you can’t change. You may find it helpful to write a letter to yourself about letting go of what you can’t change and welcoming the things you love about yourself.

Write down the things you’re good at and/or love to do (e.g. sports, music, art, etc.). Practicing these activities regularly can help you feel more confident in your abilities.

Set a few realistic goals for yourself and create a plan to meet them (this may also help with your self-esteem). Don’t forget to reward yourself when you meet a goal!

Make a list of everything you’ve accomplished so far and add to it regularly. Post your list someplace where you can see it often. Be proud of yourself!

If you can, try to avoid the people and/or things that challenge your self-acceptance. Memorize a few go-to thoughts you can say to yourself if you begin to doubt or question your worth (some people call these thoughts affirmations).

Remember to speak kindly to yourself and turn any self-critical, negative thoughts into positive thoughts. Don’t be too hard on yourself or compare yourself to others.

Consider a few things you can do to treat yourself and spend quality time on your own (e.g. taking a warm bath, going for a walk in nature, etc.). It’s also important to take care of yourself by eating right, sleeping enough and exercising regularly.

Volunteer, get a part-time job or try a new extracurricular activity to learn more about yourself, what you enjoy and what you’re good at.

You can always share your feelings with people you trust such as family and friends. (You could even try asking them to name two or three things they like about you.)

Everyone’s journey to self-acceptance is different, but you can learn to be comfortable in your own skin.

 

THE Mental MOUNTAIN: Getting Over the Hump

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No matter how you describe your internal battle, it always seems to come down to facing a theoretical mountain of SHAADE ahead of you. Tackling your fears and lack of confidence starts with understanding your “mountain”. The foundation starts with the flat base of easy wins, the obstacles you face all the time but you have dealt with and won….or maybe lost and felt ok acceptance. These can be composed of happy or sad, but they are the foundations to your happiness.

The middle layer makes up the confusing and more difficult aspirations. It’s rocky (instability, anxiousness), filled with multiple paths (rights/wrongs, relationships, physicality), dangers that lurk around unknown turns (pain, rejection, loss), and it seems to never end (disappointment, doubt, repetition). The last challenge is taking on the top, the most difficult part of your journey. These are life events that require complete commitment, might never be achievable, but can change your life and those around you.

As I try and find my way over the mountain, I find that most of my constant mental battle lives in the middle layer. My middle layer seems bigger than it should be. It’s filled with obstacles that I know I can overcome, but the path seems to get more and more “rocky” due to voices and perception I put on myself. The path gets unclear, my mind can’t choose the right turn, I feel that I go around in circles, when will I reach a peaceful valley…..

“I’ve come to believe that all my past failure and frustrations were actually laying the foundation for the understandings that have created the new level of living I now enjoy.”

 

The best way that I have been able to compartmentalize my inner struggle is to break down the sections in to sizable chunks. If I can turn the middle layer and all of its challenges in to mini layers, then my mind can let go of seeing these as ONE BIG mental headache, but more of mini tasks with more WINs along the way. For my first mini mountain, I have chosen to work on my lack of confidence in where my life is at today. The past month has been confusing. The uncertainty in the workplace, the slow pace that occurs at the start of the year, viewing others’ successes as personal failures, not thinking you make a difference to those around you, etc. I know most of it isn’t even relevant, but my mind has other thoughts. It is trying its hardest to bring in depression and anxiety. This is my mental problem and I know I can beat it.

The success of overcoming this mini mountain will come to light over the next couple of weeks, but for now I have to believe:

I CAN be confident. I CAN change my way of thinking. I KNOW I can get through this hump.

The TOLL

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The TOLL….or better explained as my definition of “The Time Of Losing Life”. It’s a barrier we all struggle with. Its a gatekeeper of happiness, pain, sadness, and so much more. The TOLL is something I personally think about when it comes to next steps. I’m losing in comparison to others, losing in time spent, losing in happiness, losing in status, losing in being happy, losing in understanding of what is right, losing in confidence, losing in everything i want to be. That’s depression and the misunderstanding of emotions. You’re losing life by caring too much…..but what is too much without thinking about what YOU need.

#more to come

 

 

 

 

It’s been awhile…..

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So I have been distant, been pulled back, been out of the story game for a minute. Not by choice, but by responsibility (life has been amazing overall). I love my little man and have devoted more time to him and my beautiful wife than messages. My message still remains clear: I love my family, I want to be better, I want to deliver a message that makes sense, I love everyone around me that makes me better, I want life to be an example that everyone can be proud of! We have a single purpose, so we all have to live it.

So a question or challenge comes to mind: “What do you feel as the biggest challenge in your life?”. Do you feel that you can accomplish what you want in the near future? Do you have the needed support system? Do you have the drive internally to make it happen? What is holding you back? Do you love yourself?

Life if ever changing…

So what, who cares? Are you happy? Do you feel “full”? This is what I live by every day of my life. It’s a constant that I can live by and bring to the to the table. Something that makes everything worth living. The pain, the fun, the hardships that make you as a person to overcome. That is what makes you human. That’s what makes you “whole”. Overcome and conquer your life as you only have one chance.

Embrace the fun, the bad, the pain, the love from family, the struggles that make you appreciate everything around you. Embrace the experience. You have 100 years (if you’re lucky, more realistically 80+) to do something, what do you want to accomplish versus being remembered by? Take control. Make a difference. Donate, volunteer, think of those that have it worse than you. You are not the 1%. There are people that need it more than you! You have breathe and you have drive. Make something of that!

America…Remembered

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17 years ago, life was great. Walking through high school things were as normal and expected. In our calm community in Utah everything was great. We were in a bubble. We had simple tasks or homework to think about. My friends and others did what we normally did, we went to class late, we talked about the weekend or after school activities, we did what we did every other day (learn…. I guess without goofing off). Then life changed. America was HIT! Our solemn and powerful nation was jumbled by the poor choices by those that wanted to send a message and those that thought making a difference was by killing people, particularly America (a melting pot of every nation and proactive protector of human life). WTF?! Kill as many as possible and that was a success! WTF again?!

I remember sitting in my classroom and our teacher said we need to watch the news and think about what was going on. Multiple planes, thousands of deaths, major security issues, indescribable acts against what we feel as “safe”. I’m hesitant, I’m questioning my safety, thinking of my family, thinking of what can be next. What do we do? I’m pissed and shocked at the same time. I sat in a room for 12 hours looking at what happened to New York. I’m sick. I’m sad. I’m disappointed in humanity. 17 years later I’m still lost. Why why why?

It’s a tragedy that we will never forget, but will continue to repeat itself in this world unless we all remember what the gift of life is about.

Making sense of things, the hero’s, the hate and those that lost

I watched the recap last night of the terrible things that happened 17 years ago. I cried. I got angry. I felt like it was yesterday. I was proud on top of that. The men and women that sacrificed their lives to help those that were caught in an act of terrorism. The world and us, as a nation, don’t deserve the pain that was given. I understand that this violence happens in other countries every day. How and why? What is the end motive? How does that violence bring an end goal? It doesn’t. It only spurs more hate and suffering.

So we, as a nation, think of all the good lives lost. Either from acts such as 9/11 or in our every day lives. Good people. Great human beings that brought love and inspiration to our lives. Lives that were cut short due to illness or selfless acts. They will never be forgotten. We can do better. We can be better. We can carry on their mission to a better world for our family and friends.

So, to all those that have given their lives or devotion to make my life and others better, I commend you. I appreciate you. I want to be like you. We have a gift as human beings to be strong, be respectful, be honest and kind. We are the human element, we can make a difference. So I only ask one thing, what can you do today that will transform tomorrow?