We've all had that feeling before. You forget to put a plus or minus in a math problem and get a wrong answer. Once you realise that, you think you should go drown in a bucket of water. Perhaps on a more serious note, you might not be coping with work/school (or maybe you killed a patient) and you go back thinking that you're worthless. For a while, for some reason, you start to genuinely believe killing yourself might be an option.
We've all been there, you're probably not the only one.
Why am I talking about this? Today is World Mental Health Day. If there is one thing you take to heart today, it's this. Our bodies are varied, some of us are short, tall, thin, fat. We have different levels of everything in our body, hormones, enzymes, cells it's the reason why when you go for a test, your doctor will try to find out if your values are within the normal range. Not everyone can run a mile in five minutes and we don't feel inferior because of it.
Similarly, not everyone's minds are the same. We have varying desires, inclinations, dislikes and different things give our lives meaning. It's ok. Not everyone is going to be a top student and there is nothing wrong with that.
Every once in a while, you've probably fallen down and cut yourself. Maybe the cut wouldn't heal on its own and got infected. It's normal to seek treatment. Correspondingly, when the going gets tough and you can't handle it or you don't feel your normal self, there is absolutely nothing wrong with seeking medical attention, nobody can or should ostracise you for it.
Destigmatise Mental Illness. We're in the 21st Century for God's sake, we shouldn't be demonising people like in the middle ages.
The Institute of Mental Health has some great resources on a range of mental health issues such as how to cope with bereavement.
And BTW, if you're reading this blog post because you are in some way contemplating suicide please call the Samaritians (Singapore number) 1800 221 4444. Don't worry, it's confidential or if you are the type who needs to read something check this out.
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