Why Do We Feel Bad About Feeling Bad?

Author

Lee Health

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Lee Health

Posted on

Apr 05, 2021

Book/Edition

Florida - Southwest

Share This
The Cruel Truths About Mental Health Stigma
I remember the first time I encountered it.
I was young, maybe 8 or 9, and it happened shortly after my best friends father shot himself in the woods outside of his home. As you can imagine, this was a horrible, terribly confusing experience, especially at a time when these kinds of things werent discussed. I can still remember the look on my friends face when he told me the truth.
It happened again in high school, this time when another friend pushed his love affair with drugs a bridge too far, leading to a psychotic episode that has never fully resolved. My heart still breaks for the person I knew before his life changed forever -- smart, sharply irreverent, endlessly curious about the world and his place in it. We lost a good man on the altar of human suffering.
In both of these sad situations, and in many similar instances in between, I have seen the reality of mental illness cruelly played out in the forum of public opinion:
His father was kind of strange anyway
Wow, hes really crazy now
And, my personal favorite, Shes so nuts; I would never want to be her!
Im sure you have a few of your own to add to this pile. Not pretty.
The Power of Fear
So, all of this begs the questions: Why is this? How did it get this way? Why arent we more enlightened on the issue of mental illness than we are?
I have a few thoughts.
First, we are a deeply social species, and we all want to be part of the tribe. Anything that makes us different, unlovable, less than, or unpopular risks our membership in the group -- and nobody wants to be left out.
This is a kind of mean girls view of this dynamic, although, to be fair, this is not exclusive to women. The effects of shame, alienation, and shunning are everywhere, and we all bear responsibility for doing our share to be inclusive.
Second, we are all, more or less, instinctually fearful of the other, whether he or she is of another race, ethnicity or sexual orientation, or -- in the darker regions of our psyches -- someone we recognize in ourselves.
( Just as an editorial aside, this is what I believe drives the genre of modern horror films that scares and fascinates us. Sigmund Freud, the genius father of psychoanalysis, was among the first to lay this out for what it is: a fear of our dark parts that leads us to self-protectively project shame, ridicule, and ruthless judgment as a defense against feeling afraid and inadequate. His analysis is made for our times as we struggle with the growing pains of becoming an increasingly diverse society.)
Human healing
So whats the solution to all of this? Another brief story, if you dont mind.
Gordon Derner, the maverick dean of my Ph.D. program, made it a point to let all first-year doctoral students know that, in his opinion, there was no distinction between patients and therapists. To him, we are all broken in one way or another, a seemingly grim observation mitigated by his abiding optimism that everyone could be healed through the grace of human relationships.
He was channeling his own mentor, Harry Stack Sullivan, the brilliant and courageous denizen of interpersonal psychoanalysis who made it his lifes mission to treat all people with respect, compassion, and dignity.
The bottom line: Stigma about feeling bad, having issues, or just plain being unhappy is something that defines us all. Its just what it means to be human.
The sooner we can accept, with love and compassion, this reality in ourselves and others, the sooner we can help one another get what we all need. Lets get on with it.

Lee Health Behavioral Health Services:
Discover how important you are
Lee Health Behavioral Health Services an outpatient facility provides friendly and compassionate psychiatric and counseling services along with plenty of other mental health resources. We evaluate your condition, manage your medication, and implement a plan to help you feel better. You will find a trained therapist who is right for you a caring and attentive person who will connect with you and empower you to tackle your problems.For more information or to schedule an appointment please call 239-343-9180.
We treat conditions such as:

Anxiety disorders
Personality disorders
Mood disorders
Phobias
Postpartum depression

Submitted and Written By: Lee Health - click here for more information

Other Articles You May Like

The Power of Hobbies: Finding Joy and Purpose in Senior Life

In the golden years of life, the pursuit of hobbies emerges as a powerful means of discovering joy and purpose. Beyond the notion of leisure, hobbies become a source of fulfillment, offering seniors a tangible way to engage with life's richness. Whether it's rediscovering a lifelong passion or exploring new interests, the world of hobbies provides a canvas for self-expression and personal growth. From gardening and painting to photography and book clubs, the possibilities are diverse and tailored to individual preferences. These activities not only fill the days with meaningful pursuits but also foster a sense of accomplishment and identity, crucial elements in maintaining a positive outlook on life.The transformative power of hobbies in senior life extends beyond the personal realm, influencing social connections and overall well-being. Joining hobby groups or participating in community events centered around shared interests creates avenues for new friendships and a vibrant social life. The joy derived from pursuing hobbies ripples into improved mental health, combating feelings of isolation that can sometimes accompany aging. In essence, the cultivation of hobbies in senior life is a testament to the enduring capacity for discovery, learning, and joy, reaffirming that the later years can be a time of continued growth, purpose, and fulfillment.

Senior Advocacy: Empowering Seniors to Raise Their Voices

In the beautiful tapestry of existence, senior advocacy emerges as a heartfelt ballad, harmonizing the voices of our elders with the ever-evolving cadence of societal metamorphosis. This compassionate initiative is a celebration of the profound wisdom etched into the chapters of our seniors' lives, inviting them to share their narratives and contribute to the evolving story of our shared humanity. Embracing the notion that every line on their faces tells a unique tale, senior advocacy cherishes the pillars of providing access to information, fostering independence, and encouraging social engagement, creating an environment where the elderly can not only participate actively but also weave the threads of their experiences into the rich fabric of our communal tapestry.The symphony of senior advocacy resonates on two enchanting stages. In the corridors of legislation, the voices of seniors become melodic echoes, influencing policies that reflect the intricate needs of an aging society. Simultaneously, at the grassroots level, community initiatives, resembling blooming gardens of connection and understanding, offer platforms for seniors to not only connect with kindred spirits but also sow the seeds of their invaluable experiences. "Serenading Wisdom" is a poetic celebration of the collaborative composition that unfolds when the voices of our elders are not just heard but embraced, creating a melody that resonates with the timeless beauty of shared stories and collective progress.

Coping with Grief: Support for Seniors Dealing with Loss

Dealing with loss in the senior years requires a nuanced and compassionate approach. One essential aspect is connecting seniors with accessible resources that address their specific needs. Local community centers, bereavement support groups, and online platforms can serve as invaluable outlets for sharing experiences and finding solace. Recognizing the unique challenges seniors face, such as the loss of long-time companions or the impact of age-related health issues on their grieving process, is crucial. By fostering an environment that acknowledges these challenges and provides tailored resources, we can empower seniors to navigate grief with resilience and a sense of community.Moreover, offering counseling options geared towards the elderly is essential. Specialized therapists who understand the intricacies of senior grief can provide a safe space for expression and healing. Group therapy sessions, either in person or virtually, can create a supportive community where seniors can share their feelings and learn from others who have faced similar losses. By encouraging seniors to explore counseling options, we not only acknowledge the importance of their emotional well-being but also provide them with the tools to cope with grief in a healthy and constructive manner.

Local Services By This Author

Lee Health

Physicians 4211 Metro Parkway, Fort Myers, Florida, 33916

Lee Health-World-class care for our communityLee Healths dedicated experts work together for your well-being, delivering timely, compassionate care for our patients and their families. We celebrate and appreciate our community. No matter what you need, well be here .As one of the largest not-for-profit public health systems in Florida, it's our mission to build a healthier future for our community. We have a vision for our future one that embraces positive change and innovation. Our community plays a big role in the services we provide, the innovative technology we support, and the facilities, events, and classes we offer. 

Lee Health

Hospitals , Fort Myers, Florida,

Our Hospitals Are SafeIt is safe to come to the hospital or emergency room. Lee Health is well-equipped to provide safe and exceptional care to all patients, and the current staffing and capacity matters are not a reason to delay care. Our Emergency and Urgent Care Locations are Safe and OpenMedical emergencies happen to all of us, usually when we least expect it. Our emergency rooms available at all of our hospital locations - will calm your fears with staff members trained to treat severe and life-threatening conditions. From broken bones to breathing trouble, from chest pain to trauma, Lee Health doctors and nurses assess your needs and quickly spring into action. Comprehensive Health & Wellness ServicesCLICK HERE, to View Our Calendar. We are holding many virtual events. Please check out our event listings and sign up for a class! Lee Health's Healthy Life Centers offer a personal fitness and education experience that will help you reach your goals and make you feel at home. Our facilities include strength and cardio equipment, group fitness, educational seminars, and many other integrated health services. To see which (hospital, urgent care center, outpatient facility, healthy life center, or physician) location is nearest you, CLICK HERE!We have physicians in all specialties:Addiction MedicineAllergy & ImmunologyCardiologyCardiothoracic SurgeryConvenient Care (Urgent Care)Developmental BehaviorEndocrinologyFamily MedicineGastroenterologyGeneral SurgeryGeriatric MedicineInfectious DiseaseInternal MedicineMemory CareNeonatologyNeurologyNeuropsychologyNeurosurgeryObstetrics & GynecologyOccupational MedicineOncology/HematologyOrthopedic SurgeryPain ManagementPalliative MedicinePediatric Adolescent MedicinePediatric Behavioral HealthPediatric CardiologyPediatric Ear, Nose & ThroatPediatric EndocrinologyPediatric GastroenterologyPediatric General SurgeryPediatric Infectious DiseasePediatric NephrologyPediatric NeurologyPediatric Oncology/HematologyPediatric OphthalmologyPediatric PsychologyPediatric Sleep MedicinePediatric Urgent CarePediatric UrologyPediatricsPhysical Medicine & RehabPsychiatryPsychologyPulmonary MedicineRheumatologySleep MedicineUrologyVascular SurgeryWomen's Sexual HealthWound Care & Hyperbaric MedicineCLICK HERE TO VIEW THE DIRECTORY