Mental health In Photos
Hi, I’ve struggled with mental health since I was 13 but everytime I come out about it either I scare people so I stop saying anything, I realize I don’t have money to cover getting help, or I feel as though nobody believes me.
Everyday I wake up and feel the same way, pointless and I know if I go to someone and tell them about internal thoughts about life I’ve been having they’ll just freak out. I don’t know how to explain this feeling but I know I feel it ALL THE TIME. I don’t know if it’s just hormones, or an actual illness but pretend it’s not there. It’s easier to hide then come forward and now as I’m preparing to start college I realize I wish I would have gotten help. It gets worse over the years but I feel as though I burden all those around me, during wellness checks at Dr’s I put no on everything that way they don’t try to make me go to a mental hospital.
This is your sign please speak up if you have feelings or thoughts that are harming you. I wish I was brave enough to. Also check on your loved ones because I do have people check on me and it’s nice from time to time. You never know what someone is facing internally so lastly be kind!!!!!
It's incredibly brave to share your journey, and I deeply relate to how you feel. That constant battle of what's going on 'internally every day' versus 'how others see me' is something many of us face. Sometimes, it feels like we're living two different lives – the one we project and the one '24/7 in our head.' Your powerful "Mental Health in Photos" approach really resonated with me. I've found that sometimes, words just aren't enough to explain the depth of what you're going through, especially when you feel 'how I feel constantly.' That's where visual expression, like a personal mental health awareness photoshoot or even just a photo diary, can be incredibly therapeutic. It's not about being a professional photographer; it's about using images to capture those unspoken emotions. Why A Visual Journal Can Help: Externalizing Feelings: Just like you've shown, sometimes seeing your feelings depicted visually can make them feel more real, and less like something only 'in your head.' It can be a step towards acknowledging them. Bridging the Gap: For those who struggle to articulate their pain, photos can communicate volumes. It helps others understand the difference between 'how I feel constantly' and 'how my family and friends see me.' Tracking Progress: Over time, a visual diary can show you subtle shifts in your mood or perspective, even on days when you feel stuck. Tips for Creating Your Own Photo Diary: Be Authentic: Don't aim for perfection. Capture moments as they are. A tired reflection in a mirror, a cluttered space, a blank stare – these can all be powerful. Focus on Emotion, Not Just Faces: You don't always need to be in the photo. A picture of a stormy sky, a wilting plant, or even just your hands can convey sadness, loneliness, or hope. Use Metaphors: Think about objects or scenes that symbolize your feelings. A closed door for isolation, a tangled thread for confusion, or a ray of sunlight for hope. Add Captions (Optional but Powerful): Like your original post, a short caption explaining the feeling behind the image can add another layer of understanding, for yourself and for anyone you choose to share it with. Remember your call to 'speak up'? This visual approach can be a first step, or even a parallel path, to finding your voice. It allows you to process emotions without immediate pressure to explain everything verbally. And for those around us, your plea to 'check on your loved ones' is crucial. We often see people smiling, just like you showed, and assume everything is fine. But behind that smile, there could be a whole world of struggle, '24/7 in their head.' A subtle change in their appearance, a hesitant glance, or a prolonged silence might be their silent 'photo' of how they truly feel. Reaching out for help, whether it's through therapy, support groups, or trusted friends, is a sign of immense strength, not weakness. It's okay if you don't have all the answers or the resources right away. Just acknowledging what you feel 'internally every day' is a monumental first step. Your honesty can truly inspire others who are also pushing through their own battles.
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