Why is Mental Health Important?

Mental health advocacy plays an important role in breaking down the stigma against mental health and creating a more supportive, understanding world. When people from different backgrounds speak up about mental health, they are not only raising awareness but also helping others feel less alone.Opening up about mental health experiences and sharing personal stories encourages people to feel seen, acknowledged, and connected. Advocacy reminds everyone that mental health is equally as important as physical health and works to help bring change in communities, businesses, and schools.

We are connected by these stories. Especially when told by those in leadership, they encourage their followers to take a stance in understanding and empathy. Leaders give a sense of strength and passion when they talk about their experiences with mental health. It makes conversations more welcoming and encourages people to ask for help or stand by individuals they come across or have relationships with.
Storytelling also has a therapeutic effect. A person can process emotions, feel more resilient, and gain strength by sharing challenges and progress with others. Sharing good experiences can even improve mental health and promote connections within the community.

In the end, storytelling and mental health advocacy provide opportunities for understanding, education, and change. Sharing one's story can be a powerful way to connect with people, improve confidence, and contribute to healing.

 

References 

Harvard Health Publishing. (2021, July 21). Stories connect us. Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/stories-connect-us-202107212550

 

Suttie, J. (2020, July 8). Five reasons to share your mental health struggles. Greater Good Science Center. https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/five_reasons_to_share_your_mental_health_struggles

 

Arewasikporn, A., Sturgeon, J. A., & Zautra, A. J. (2019). Sharing positive experiences boosts resilient thinking: Everyday benefits of social connection and positive emotion in a community sample. American Journal of Community Psychology, 63(1–2), 110–121. https://doi.org/10.1002/ajcp.12279