May is Mental Health Awareness Month. I think over the past few years, it has become more normalized for people to publicly acknowledge that they may be seeking treatment for their mental health or struggling in some way. Sometimes, I think one of the most difficult things for people to do is to accept the fact that they are struggling and need help, but ultimately, I think if they are able to do this, they will be better off and more at peace with themselves than if they were to keep resisting.
Asking for help has been a part of my life since I was little. Almost every day I’m asking for help with something. I think that’s part of living life with a disability, you sometimes must get comfortable asking people to help you do things, maybe, more than the average person. This can be a little daunting at first, especially going through different direct care providers every few years. It usually takes some time to develop a relationship with them and to slowly learn to open up and be vulnerable with them. I do still wrestle with having to let people into my life so much especially right before someone new is about to start, but then slowly, after a few times, we get into a rhythm and we begin to do life in all its mess and chaos and late meetings and free Starbucks and fun stuff like that. Sometimes the harder way ends up not just being the better way, but ultimately one of the best things you could have done.
Note: The views expressed in this column are those of the author and are intended for informational purposes only. They do not necessarily reflect the official stance of IRCA and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical, educational, or therapeutic advice.