“Please don’t call me crazy”
I am not a mentally deranged person; my brain just needs a little extra help.
Being a woman with depression…
…does not define me, it shapes me. My DSM-5 codes are not a source of shame. My diagnostic codes are a wellspring of understanding, hope, and direction. Having a mental health diagnosis helps me to better understand the needs of my brain and assists me in making informed decisions about how to care for my brain.
So, please don’t call me crazy.
“Please, remind me I am enough just for being me.”
Over the years I have been told to pray harder, exercise more, be more grateful, try herbal remedies or oils: just to name a few. Sure these suggestions came from well-meaning people, but would you tell a person with cancer or diabetes just to pray harder, take a few herbs, and smile more, rather than seek medical attention?
I could pray more or exercise 24/7. These activities might be helpful, but in the end, my brain is chemically unbalanced. My brain wasn’t functioning properly and needed the attention of a trained professional.
Everyone’s brain is unique. Learning to care for your brain is a component of a well-rounded personal hygiene plan. How I tend to my brain’s needs isn’t going to be exactly the same as the next person.
I think because mental health is unseen, people are unsure how to respond.
Here’s what I needed during my healing process:
1. A safe space to talk and cry without judgment or advice
2. A note of encouragement
3. Hot coffee and a donut
4. To love me for who I am
5. Remind me I am enough just for being me
Mental health is not reserved for those with a diagnosis. Mental health and hygiene includes all people. We all have emotions to manage, stressful situations to navigate, relationships to nurture and develop…forgiveness, gratitude, emotional regulation, life coping skills are intimately connected to everyone’s brain health.
We all have moments in our life when we could use a little extra help. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. It is a sign of great strength. My diagnostic codes have made me stronger.
If it is comfortable for you, feel free to share your diagnostic code in the comment section.
allison jean loftus LPC
