Debunking myths about mental strength

Debunking myths about mental strength

Mental strength is the way you think, feel and behave during certain situations. Building mental strength will help you gain self-acceptance while working toward self-improvement. However, there are several misconceptions about what mental strength is and why it’s important. Below, we discuss common myths about developing mental strength.

Myth #1: Mental strength and mental health are the same thing.

Mental strength and mental health, although they may coincide, are not the same thing. Mental health isn’t something we can control – mental strength is. Factors such as genetics and past life experiences can lead to someone developing a mental health challenge, but this doesn’t mean that person isn’t mentally strong. Everyone has the ability to build mental strength, regardless of whether they have depression, anxiety, etc.

Myth #2: You’re either mentally strong or mentally weak.

There is no physical line that separates those who are mentally strong from those who are mentally weak. Everyone has room for improvement when it comes to building their mental strength, and working toward developing that strength does not mean that you’re weak. Just as increased physical strength requires daily work, so does mental strength. Coming to terms with the areas where we can grow …

Depression: Just because it’s not visible, doesn’t mean it’s not real

Depression: Just because it’s not visible, doesn’t mean it’s not real

There are many faces of depression.

For some, depression can be so severe it’s crippling – keeping them from accomplishing day-to-day tasks. For others, getting out of bed and going through life’s motions is possible, but inwardly, they may be absorbed with a challenging set of symptoms invisible to those who know them. These individuals are considered to have high-functioning depression.

Because those suffering from this are able to function normally, the people surrounding them may not realize what they’re feeling inside. It’s important to understand, however, that this diagnosis can carry significant risks if left untreated.

Do you have a loved one who’s seemed ‘off’ lately? It might be time to reach out and talk about his or her mental health. Below, we outline feelings individuals suffering from high-functioning depression may experience – even though they don’t always show them.

Self-doubt

Those suffering from high-functioning depression may experience a constant worry – over their past, present and future. This doubt is inescapable and much more pervasive than the normal worries most of us experience over life’s stressors.

Criticality

High-functioning depression can cause insistent criticality – of oneself and of others. Those suffering from high-functioning depression are often their own …