JCS 026: 5 Reasons Why You Should Talk About Your Disorder

One of the most lonely and isolating things someone can do is to keep their mental health disorder to themselves. The stigma and shame that is often associated with a disorder is often the reason for the silence.

At the same time, longing to "let it out" can be so intense and so powerful that it provokes even more anxiety and fear.

So, many people who suffer from a mental health disorder keep it to themselves. They can be pretty good at it too. They know how to put on a fake smile, act happy and talk about how good life is, all the while dying inside.

As a therapist I know the importance of why you should talk about your disorder. Talking to someone about your disorder can be very freeing and liberating.

No, I'm not suggesting that you open your window and scream at the top of your lungs that you have a disorder to everyone who can hear.  Using good judgment in whom you tell and being discreet about it is a good start.

5 Reasons Why You Should Talk About Your Disorder

1. It can empower you.  You should talk about your disorder because it is a very brave and courageous thing to do.

Many times, admitting your secret can open-up a sense of empowerment from facing your fear.

2. It can be freeing. You should talk about your disorder because it can free you from the bondage of shame, isolation and fear.

Keeping something like a mental health disorder to yourself can literally eat you from the inside.

The pressure of hurting inside and not being able to tell someone can be so strong that makes things ten times worse. Being alone and withdrawing from the world is a terrible way to live.

3. It can lead to growth. You should talk about your disorder because it can lead to growth. When you talk about your disorder it can be a step toward acceptance.

If you can't get rid of your disorder right away, maybe you should try to accept it. Accepting that you have a disorder can go a long way towards your growth.

4. It can prevent you from feeling alone. You should talk about your disorder because it can bring you closer to others and help you feel less alone. Many people who struggle with a mental health disorder do so alone.

Feeling alone while struggling with a disorder can be very burdensome. Why keep living this way? You don't have to be alone any longer if you talk to someone.

5. It can allow others to help you. You should talk about your disorder because it can allow others in your life to surround you and help you when you need them.

Your friends and family will be there for you, but you need to trust them. You have to take that scary step and talk about your disorder. I think you'll be glad that you did.

Common Fears

I'm sure there will be someone who will read this and think "There is no way that I can tell someone" or "I would just die if anyone found out what I'm struggling with."  

A few common fears that might keep you from talking to others about your disorder are:

Fear of being judged

Loosing a friend

Someone might think you're crazy

You might feel more shame than you already do

Fear of people avoiding you

There are some risks for sure, but the rewards are far greater. Think about it.

Wouldn't be great to be liberated from the secret bondage of your disorder? Sure it would!  The next thing to do is find someone to tell.

Finding Someone To Tell

This is a very important step that deserves a lot of thought, especially if you have never told anyone.  Think about the various people in your life and who you can trust with such an important fact about you.

1. Can they keep your confidence?
2. Are they quick to judge others?
3. Can they take such information seriously?
4. The person that you choose to tell must be trustworthy and safe.

If you haven't done so already, please consider talking to someone about your disorder.

Don't suffer alone, you need others in your life to help and encourage you.

You should talk about your disorder this week.  I know that it can be a very scary thing to do, but I believe you'll be glad that you did.

You don't have to suffer alone.

Please comment...

I told you my reasons why you should talk about your disorder, but can you think of other reasons to add to my list? I would love to know.

Also, please tell me if you did tell someone and how it went.

I hope you're having a good day.

Blessings to you my friends,