Silent Stigmas and Power in Vulnerability

The silent suffering that occurs because of the negative stigmas and views of mental health is so much more dangerous than we often realize. It leads to people undervaluing themselves even more than they already may. Instead, we should be lifting them in support and creating a space where they can feel heard and safe. 

More often than not when someone is in a difficult mental space society rushes to judge them. Bring up their shortcomings, or place blame for the reason things may not be stable and stellar for that person. Shaming people who are struggling to find their self worth and manage their mental health is not helpful. As a community and a society, we’ve negated the importance of open communication. Judging people for the space that they are in when they are being vulnerable is not your job or your place. vulnerability is to be celebrated and understood. The power that lies within being vulnerable is unmatched. 

Being vulnerable in life is important for your spiritual growth. 

You do not have to suffer in silence. You do not have to be a victim of your thoughts and fears. There is so much more to life than living in fear. Sometimes we take on more than we can admittedly handle. Then, instead of asking for help, for several reasons, whether it be fear of inadequacy, failure, or judgment, we attempt to manage the struggles and emotions about it on our own. 

How many times have you found yourself feeling as though you are drowning in responsibilities and depressive despair? How many times have you felt like you were being forced into silence about it because of your loved ones and close friends? 

Sometimes people tend to project their fears instead of just be a listening ear. Not every person requires advice when they ask to be heard. They are just asking for an ear to listen. A space to get out of their heads and be met with gentle and encouraging energy. I think what happens for some people is that they believe when their friend or loved one is asking to share what’s on their minds and hearts, that they are then asking for some miraculous advice to pull them out of their depression. The truth and fact of the matter are that it’s the complete opposite. Chances are the person who already knows the advice that you’re going to lend. They probably have milled it over more times than you could even imagine. Depression just

isn’t that simple though. If you want to offer a lending ear, hand, or heart sometimes it’s best to simply ask «What can I do? Is there anything I can do?» and let the person take their time to tell you the ways they best feel you can offer support.