I want to share my story not only to break the silence around mental health but also to encourage other men out there who might be struggling silently. As men, we’re often told to tough it out, not to show vulnerability, but the truth is, it’s okay not to be okay.
My journey with mental health challenges, stemming from years of severe bullying and, ultimately, a diagnosis of PTSD, has shaped my passion for advocacy. Today, I stand before you as a survivor and am committed to fostering a culture of compassion and acceptance.
I was bullied severely throughout my school years, starting from creche through high school. The constant harassment and ridicule took a toll on my self-esteem, leaving lasting scars that I still deal with today.
“Assistance and help only came later in life, at 27, when I was finally courageous enough to share my experiences and how they shaped me.”
Assistance and help only came later in life, at 27, when I was finally courageous enough to share my experiences and how they shaped me. Following various sessions with a professional, I was diagnosed with PTSD and how it has affected my life. Discuss the treatment you’ve received and continue to receive. You might say:
The diagnosis was a turning point for me. Since then, I’ve been on antidepressants and have regularly visited a psychologist for support. While it’s been challenging, these treatments have been essential in helping me manage my condition and regain some sense of normality in my life.
I’ve chosen to share my story because I believe it’s crucial to break the silence and stigma surrounding mental health, especially among men. No one should feel ashamed or afraid to seek help when struggling. By speaking openly about my experiences, I hope to encourage others to do the same and seek their support.
If you’re struggling with your mental health, please know that you’re not alone. Help and support are available, and reaching out for it is okay. Recovery is possible, and while it may not be easy, it’s worth it. You deserve to live a life free from the burdens of mental illness, and you have the strength to overcome whatever challenges you may face.
Thank you for taking the time to listen to my story. Together, we can break mental health stigma and create a more compassionate and supportive world for everyone. Remember, you are not alone, and there is always hope.
Take care of yourself and each other.
Written by Tinus Coetze
