Here is a quiz for you. Name one illness as many as 1 in 5 Americans have but never discuss. If you said mental illness, then you are right. Mental health shapes how we see our world and interact with everything and everyone around us.   

The following are some indicators of impaired mental or behavioral well-being.  

Generalized anxiety 

Eating disorders 

Being depressed after childbirth (post-partum depression) 

Suicidal thoughts 

Agoraphobia or feeling unsafe in crowds, or afraid of being out of one's home 

Attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) 

Obsessive-compulsive disorder  

While some actions are more evident than others, the above indicators mean something is wrong with our emotional health, and treatment can help. Most employers offer an employee assistance program (EAP) where staff may have confidential virtual or telephone behavioral health consultations. If you need even more privacy, many counseling and behavioral health options exist online. Also, remember that Osceola Community Health Services is a primary healthcare provider. Osceola Community Health Service is a judgment-free zone offering behavioral health services for all ages.   

 

Whether the signs are emotional, mental, or behavioral, they represent an illness, and like any other illness, help is available. There is no need to be ashamed. Instead, do as the Mayo Clinic advises and: 

Get treatment 

Don't let stigma create self-doubt and shame 

Don't isolate yourself 

Remember, you are not your illness 

Join a support group 

Get help at school 

Speak out against stigma 

You may also call the national mental health hotline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) 

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