When I was around ten years old, my aunt, who was more like a big sister to me, had a mental health crisis. That evening is etched in my memory: I stood in my grandmother’s kitchen, watching her scream with her hands over her face. I remember wearing those trendy black and white saddle shoes she had picked out for me; she always had an eye for style. We used to flip through magazines, critiquing outfits long before anyone even thought of reality TV fashion shows.
To me, she was the epitome of cool—a mix between an older sister and a best friend. My aunt loved music (Aretha Franklin was her jam), shared stories about her past relationships, and encouraged me to chase my dreams, even when no one else believed in them.
That night, she was taken to the hospital for observation and ended up staying there for a few months. Even after her return, we tiptoed around her mental health struggles—throughout my teenage years, into adulthood, and even after I got married and had kids. She never opened up about what had led her to that breakdown, nor did she talk about the deep grief of losing her newborn son to crib death, just days after he was born. I didn’t understand clinical depression back then, and neither did my family; unfortunately, she never sought ongoing counseling.
When she passed away at 54, she had been on a cocktail of strong medications for years, and I often found myself helping her take them—bringing her water to wash down those pills. Even in her medicated state, she remained my favorite aunt. I realized she wouldn’t have wanted others to feel the same unraveling that she had experienced. After her passing, I began to share her story with my children and nieces, highlighting how unspoken issues can lead to profound struggles.
And let me clarify: I’m using the term “Crazy” with a capital C out of love and respect for my aunt. She wouldn’t have worried about political correctness; she would have rolled her eyes at any euphemism. If she were here today, she would have probably said, “We need to talk about this. It’s about time, especially for women. If we don’t address it, it will only worsen. So, pay attention to your loved ones—look for the signs of postpartum depression, suicidal thoughts, panic attacks, addictions, eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. We need to act.”
Many of us carry the burden of mental health issues in silence, hiding our struggles as if they’re shameful secrets. It’s uncomfortable to admit that after welcoming a healthy child into the world, you just want to curl up in a ball, or that a divorce has resurfaced buried issues, leaving you contemplating suicide. It’s just as awkward to explain a sudden outburst at the grocery store that had nothing to do with a misplaced coupon.
These complex mental health challenges can’t be brushed aside with time, distractions, or indulgences. No, flimsy fixes won’t heal these wounds—only real treatment can. I remember watching a video featuring a well-known public figure, Mia Thompson, discussing her battle with clinical depression and substance abuse. At just 19, she bravely encouraged others to speak out about mental health. I couldn’t help but think of my aunt. If only she had had the same courage, perhaps she would still be here today, still critiquing the latest fashion trends.
We all likely know someone grappling with mental health challenges, often remaining hidden until the breaking point is reached. This is why it’s crucial to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental illness and foster an environment where individuals can share their feelings without fear of judgment. Mental health is as much a part of our family history as any genetic disorder; it requires diagnosis and treatment like any other illness. We need more discussions about mental health at our dinner tables and schools, more public service announcements, and more resources available at community events.
Our mental well-being must be prioritized, deserving of public funding for initiatives, programs, and treatment centers. By fostering understanding and compassion, we can create safe spaces for those struggling with mental illness. If we teach our children to approach others with empathy, we can redefine what it means to be “crazy cool.”
If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, remember that seeking help is not a sign of weakness. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) provides valuable resources and programs to help combat stigma and support individuals and their families.
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In summary, mental health struggles are pervasive and often misunderstood. We must break the silence surrounding these issues and prioritize open conversations, support, and understanding, not just for ourselves but for future generations.
Keyphrase: family history of mental health
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