50% of mental illness begins by age 14 and 3/4 begins by age 24

Everyone has mental health, but not everyone has a mental illness. We must learn to spot mental illnesses to extend grace toward others and ourselves. We should always treat others in the way we believe we deserve to be treated. Whether a retail worker or a CEO, no one should ever feel insignificant due to another human being’s actions. We must care for one another. 

Mental illnesses can be challenging to spot, and because they are “invisible” illnesses, they are often neglected. This is how we lose others around us and ourselves. I am very adamant that nothing else matters. Without good general health, you have nothing, and I am willing to argue this. You really need to care for yourself and do not make the mistake of relying on other’s to constantly make you feel better because anything can happen and death is inevitable. That’s the unfortunate dark truth.

Others can undeniably positively contribute to your mental health, which is why I always advocate surrounding yourself with people who allow you to feel appreciated, seen and heard. However, relying on one person to improve your mental illness is a slippery slope and selfish because they have their own lives, too. What if they aren’t doing well either? Then what? It’s just the blind leading the blind. Might be time to seek therapy.

How to spot a mentally ill person(s)

• Poor hygiene
• Overly nervous
• Suicidal ideation
• Emotional outbursts
• Feeling depressed/ anxious
• Feeling guilty and worthless
• Trouble with concentration/ making decisions
• High risk behaviour – substance abuse, unprotected sex, violence and crime.
• Changes in school or work (Increased absenteeism, worsening performance, difficulties in relationships with peers and co-workers.)

In 2023, I had the best and worst times, but the worst time greatly affected me, and my work manager often mentioned that I wasn’t doing well. I was constantly in a bad mood, hardly smiled, and just seemed not to want to be there, but it was due to my poor mental health; at the time, it felt as though I wouldn’t reach the next day due to suicidal ideation, anxiety and depression. Waking up felt like a chore, the last thing on my mind was meeting targets.

Overtime I got better. I still didn’t meet targets but at least I am happier.

If you are unwell, let it be known. In the same way, if you call off sick because you have a common cold, you should be able to do the same when you feel mentally unwell. It’s okay to ask for help; it’s okay to take a break, even a break from your mind because there is no worse feeling than being unstable and alone. 

You may be good at masking it, but you can only do it for so long before you hit a mental wall. That’s why noticing changes within yourself and those around you is important so proper care can be applied. 

I am sending you virtual hugs this month, the rest of the year and all of eternity. Everything will be okay. – Mul x