Leslie Wilson
Executive Vice President, Global Workplace Initiatives
Disability:IN
On this World Mental Health Day, I want the citizens of the world to know that mental health conditions are diagnosable, treatable health conditions. And no matter who we are or what we know, we are at risk, just as we are at risk of developing physical health conditions.
Recently, I was preparing to moderate a World Mental Health Day panel with three corporate executives. The first panelist spoke about a series of life crises that occurred in rapid succession and how she coped by seeking help.
Over this past summer, I lost two family members, my husband had a heart condition that caused a stroke, and we were just returning from evacuating Hurricane Ian. The panelist’s story shook me, and tears came to my eyes. I had reached the tipping point. It was time to stop saying, “I am okay. I can handle this.”
As the panelist said, “You have to take care of yourself before you take care of others.” I am taking her advice.
Mental health conditions have recovery rates equal to and greater than many physical medical conditions. If you are struggling with a mental health condition no matter what the cause, find the courage to heal, and seek the help you need. It is the first step to recovery.
Check out this resource on ways you can be a Mental Health champion and ally.
