I saw this mental health pain scale and it really made me pause… because if I’m being honest, I haven’t been a “1” in a long time. Some days I’m a 3 just quiet, a little withdrawn, pushing through. Some days I’m a 6—anxious overwhelmed, trying to function like everything is normal when it’s not. And then there are days that creep up into that 8 or 9… where it feels like everything is just too much.
I want to be real with y’all for a second. I’ve been diagnosed with MDD and PTSD and recently I went through a manic episode. And if you’ve never experienced that it’s not just “extra energy” or “being in a good mood.” It’s racing thoughts you can’t slow down, little to no sleep, impulsive decisions, feeling like you have to do everything all at once… and then crashing hard afterward. As a single mom, that’s especially heavy because even when I’m not okay, I still have to show up, still have to be everything for my child.
Some days I feel strong. Some days I feel like I’m barely holding it together. Both can be true. I’m sharing this because I know I’m not the only one silently going through it. We’ve normalized saying “I’m fine” when we’re really struggling somewhere between a 4 and a 9.
So I’m asking you where are you really on this scale today?
You don’t have to pretend here. You don’t have to have it all together. If you’re struggling, say that. If you’re tired, say that. If today is just hard, that’s okay too. My inbox is open. My comments are open. Let’s check on each other for real 💗
4/30 Edited to
... Read moreThe mental health pain scale mentioned in the article offers a useful framework for self-assessment and reflection. From feeling 'absolutely nothing wrong' at level 1 to experiencing a total meltdown and breaking point at level 9 or 10, this scale helps articulate emotional states that many people silently face every day.
Based on my own experience and interactions with others dealing with mental health challenges, acknowledging where you truly stand on this scale is crucial. Many people tend to mask their struggles behind phrases like "I'm fine," even when they're silently battling anxiety, depression, or overwhelming stress. Recognizing and admitting feelings such as exhaustion, withdrawal, or anxiety (levels 3 to 6) can be the first step toward seeking help and fostering self-compassion.
For those managing clinical conditions like Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), as the author shares, daily life includes complex ups and downs. Episodes like mania involve rapid thoughts, sleepless nights, and impulsive actions, which can be frightening and isolating, especially while managing responsibilities like parenting.
Creating safe spaces—whether through online communities, support groups, or trusted friends and family—allows individuals to be authentic without judgment. This encourages open conversations about mental health, reducing stigma and fostering mutual care. Checking in on each other regularly, as the author advocates, can help catch signs of distress before they escalate.
Practical strategies such as mindfulness, setting small achievable goals, maintaining routines, and professional support are also valuable tools. Remember, mental health is not linear; some days will feel stronger than others, and that’s perfectly okay. Sharing your struggles can be empowering and create pathways for connection and healing.
If you resonate with this message, consider reaching out to someone today or joining communities that prioritize mental health support. Together, we can build resilience and compassionate understanding. Your feelings are valid, and you are not alone on this journey.
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