Can you see the person behind the condition?

You might have come across news on Kanye West or Kim Kardashian’s response this week. West himself has spoken out in the past about living with Bipolar Disorder. So how do we explain the reaction of the media and the public to his behaviour lately?

We might have become more accepting of the general conversation on mental health, but how much are we able to see the person when they are becoming unwell? As with any condition, the person can move from experiencing good mental health, to declining mental health.

We talk about declining mental health and relapses, but what does it look like?

Think about the last time you fell sick, like the last time you had fever. How easy was it to do everyday, normal tasks? How difficult was it to feel good about yourself, and how much energy did you have to take care of others?

When it comes to mental health, depending on the severity of the condition, you might be seeing the person at their most vulnerable.

Declining mental health is not always glamorous. It can be hopelessness, numbness; other times it’s heart racing, constantly feeling on edge or threatened. Sometimes it’s impulsive behaviour, irrational thoughts or odd ideas.

So what helps someone experiencing a mental health problem?

Kindness, because most likely the person is already being harsh enough with themselves
Patience, because although the person wants to feel better, but is struggling to get him or herself back on track, and will need time to recover
Practical support, because the little things matter; maybe it’s getting the groceries or driving them to an appointment
Guidance to the right professional help, because help does exist.

If you or someone you know are struggling, please get in touch with a professional.

Our 1770 freephone is available 24/7.

Article written by Svetlana Gatt, Communications and Development Coordinator.