Why We Need to Wake Up, Not Man Up
I have many years of direct personal experience of clinical depression and anxiety. My family and close friends are extremely aware of this. It’s a great thing because together we have collectively built a strong support network. Without it, I’d probably not be alive today. I am especially grateful for my altruistic sister Natalie B for all her support. She is an angel. Also, the mother of my son, Nicole B who is one of the strongest humans I know.
The problem is too many people are dying from suicide, caused by depression and anxiety, or whatever you want to label this human experience. (*Tunnel of Passion) *Pierre Elias
Did you know every 40 seconds someone in the world takes their own life? That’s 1 million beautiful humans, with limitless potential, dying. Their deaths could have been prevented.
Global suicide rates have increased 60% in the past 45 years. Why?
Think about it.
How are we living?
80% of people dislike their jobs and work environment. We have become disconnected from meaningful work, and a meaningful life, whatever that may represent to each unique individual.
We need to be aware of the mental health of our neighbours, colleagues, family, friends and strangers. They may appear ok. Simply ‘keeping up appearances’ and surviving day-to-day. Perhaps even managing a smile to hide their sadness and disconnectedness, or sense of hopelessness. Our environment and who we choose to surround ourselves with has a massive impact on our daily lives.
There is hope.
I have battled with this phenomenon labeled depression. It almost killed me. I fought it with everything I had for many years. I am still fighting it.
How can we collectively fight this battle and win?
I propose two ways:
Firstly, by being vulnerable and asking for help. Gentlemen, be vulnerable. I know you may think it’s a sign of weakness. It definitely is not. In fact, it’s a sign of incredible strength. Be vulnerable. Men have historically been conditioned by society to ‘man up’. Be a man. Don’t cry. Don’t ask for help. F**k that! Ask for help! #wakeup
Secondly, by building a collective mental health support network. Your mental health is as important as your physical health. By having easy connectedness to online or offline support will be empowering for many people. It’ll be like having a network of gym buddies for your mind. Your ‘mind gym’. As well as going to the gym. You could show up at the mind gym in your community.
Ask for help and offer help. It could save your life. More importantly it will empower people to help and support others to wake up and live their best life.
“Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who matter don’t mind, and those who mind don’t matter.” — Dr Seuss.
Let’s all wake up and help others to do the same.
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others. -Ghandi
To be mindful of others. Ask “Are you ok?” then, really listen and connect. You could change their life.
Peace,
Adam Bowcutt ❤️
Please join us: https://www.facebook.com/VictoryAgainstSuicide
PS. If you are quietly suffering please feel free to reach out anytime and I will do my best to help you.
PPS: if you want to join me on my life mission to help reduce global suicide rates from every 40 seconds to 60 seconds. (500,000 lives saved) Please contact me to contribute your time and support.
#WAKEUP #MentalHealth #SuicidePrevention #depressionSupport #anxiety #Wellbeing
