DARK SECRETS: How mental funny relatable memes | Vintage Vibes

While there's still a long way to go in taking care of our mental health, experts are already noticing progress in us being more aware of some issues and talking more openly about them.

"A lot of the work that I do centers around assessing current practices of self-care and how to gain a new, healthier perspective on the productivity and benefit of prioritizing wellness," told us psychotherapist and founder of Cope & Calm Counseling, Amber Young.

"Our culture is very much "on the go." There is an expectation that we not only work hard but that we do not rest until we are exhausted. I have noted a greater awareness of this issue within my clients, which is a great improvement. However, prioritizing needs that do not have a tangible reward or outcome is still a struggle."

Something else she noticed improving is people more commonly using certain diagnoses and symptoms in their everyday speech.

"It appears that the concept of neurodivergence is much more accepted and less stigmatizing now that we have a catch-all umbrella term for these disorders and their subclinical presentations," she says.

"Similarly, I think the concept of trauma is becoming more accepted as a natural bi-product of life, but there still isn't the space in our society to easily address the issues that come along with traumatic responses. However, there are still specific diagnoses that people really fear receiving and/or are less likely to share with those in their support system."

"There's been significant progress in recent years when it comes to mental health care. More people are open about mental health struggles, and there are more resources available for help," agreed licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Holly Ann Schiff.

"I think public conversations about mental health are becoming more common and the stigma surrounding mental health struggles is slowly diminishing. Not only are people more open to seeking help, but there is an increasing availability of resources. The pandemic brought mental health issues into sharper focus, which has prompted more support systems and workplace initiatives aimed at mental well-being."

Mental health therapist Lynn Zakeri also noticed a similar progress in how we talk about mental health. "Whether it is in the schools or the workplace or online or even in families, we are talking about it a whole lot more," she said.

"Self-care has become a pretty familiar word nowadays. Figuring out how we ourselves take care of ourselves though can be quite personal. Some enjoy a massage, others a walk, and others a nap. There are several different ways we can recharge and reset and do the best we can. Sometimes self-compassion can go a lot farther than self-care. Often times I see clients get clarity in therapy about what they are going through and that in itself can feel very healing," she shared.

Even though experts see progress in the mental health department, they believe it's important to continue spreading awareness and having that mental well-being talk.

"When we openly discuss mental health, we normalize it, which makes it easier for those struggling to seek help. It fosters empathy and support. The more that we talk about it, the more we are working to build a culture that prioritizes emotional well-being," said Dr. Schiff.

"I think it is important to normalize mental health because, as human beings, we all have a variety of emotions and feelings that we negotiate each day," added Zakeri.

"Some days we are feeling better than others. We are never going to be completely consistent. Sometimes we are going to struggle with things that surprise us, like grief, and others might struggle on a day-to-day with something like OCD or depression. What is most important is that we are reflective on our own needs—self-care and self-compassion. Being aware that everybody is doing the best they can is something we can all do better with."

Dr. Schiff believes that it's important to continue doing so through education, open conversation, and sharing personal experiences and stories.

"Storytelling can be incredibly powerful because sharing personal stories from those who have struggled with mental health shows people that they're not alone. Education campaigns can help spread factual and accessible information through schools, workplaces, and social media. Partnering with well-known public figures who openly discuss mental health issues can also help reach wider audiences."

For those who might be downplaying their mental health struggles, experts have some golden pieces of advice.

"Just because you are handling it, it does not mean that it is not hard," said Young. "Navigating your wellness is taking energy and time from you, even if you don't believe that it "should." So rather than debating if you "should" be struggling, allow yourself to own your reality and get the help you deserve."

Zakeri recommends self-reflecting and choosing how much and to whom we want to confide about what we're going through. "Ideally, we all have one or two people we can trust and depend on as a support system, and sharing vulnerable feelings with those people can feel very relieving and even therapeutic."

Lastly, Dr. Schiff suggested, "To those who downplay their struggles, I would say: It's okay to not be okay. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. I would also encourage them to recognize that their feelings and struggles are valid. Mental health is just as important as physical health and taking care of yourself should be a priority," she stressed.

"Mental health care is a lifelong journey. Mental health doesn't have a "quick fix", but every step toward healing and understanding is worthwhile. Continue to seek balance, understanding, and support as you navigate life's challenges. Prioritize your mental health and treat it with the care it deserves."