Power of the Mind

Depression & suicidal ideations make people struggle in silent. It is not because it is their own doing. Many people feel like they have nowhere to go, nowhere to turn to, nobody to talk to for help, & it gets even especially more important for those who work in a professional capacity (i.e., law enforcement, medical profession, etc.). 

An article published by Kirk Brower discussed the dilemma of persons working in the medical field & the delay in them seeking adequate help for mental health, whilst suicide rates are significantly & disproportionately higher with those in the healthcare profession when compared with the general population. And yet, just like in the general population, there is a reluctance to seek help. How come? 

There are many reasons for not seeking help, whether the person is a healthcare professional or not. Many thoughts go through one’s mind, & these thoughts might be appearing weak, being judged negatively by others, fear of impending doom on one’s career, or fear of damaging relationships with important others. Another reason is because they think they can handle it on their own. Per the American Psychological Association, other reasons might include costs, forced to take unwanted medication, breaching of one’s confidentiality, being forced into a psychiatric unit, & several other reasons not mentioned here. 

The mind is a powerful tool. It will make you believe many things, even if it is not true. John Green once said, “There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn’t.” When I think of what John said, I often think of another quote by an unknown author – “The goal isn’t to be sober. The goal is to love yourself so much that you don’t need to drink.”

My challenge for you: Jamie Tworkowski said, “This life. This night. Your story. Your hope. It matters. All of it matters.” Go and love yourself today. 

Peace & love to all 

~ KO

P.S.A.: If you or a loved one needs immediate assistance, please seek said services in your