Today is World Mental Health Day. As someone who has the privilege of meeting and capturing the lives of so many people, I get to see people in a wide variety of situations. To tell their stories. See them everyday in their homes, on the biggest days of their lives, in the moments between the shutter clicks. People tend to get nervous about having their photos taken because they want to look good. These photos are the proof of their lives. They will be displayed with honor on their walls to represent this moment in their family’s history. They want their outfits to show them at their best. They want to have the perfect smile so that they look happy. And I can completely understand that desire. But I feel like today, more than any other day, it is important I put out there a reminder.
You do not have to be perfect.
You do NOT have to have it all together.
You do not have to pretend you do for the sake of anyone else.
You do not have to hide your struggles in shame and fear of what the world will think.
You are a beautiful, strong human being who deserves to be loved for who you are. And when I say you are beautiful, I mean you, the real you, not the mask. The you that is trying to hide that anxiety attack because you are in public and people won’t understand. You, who are trying to hide the fact that you feel hopeless even though you are so thankful for your life and know you shouldn’t be and that only makes you feel worse. You, who has a problem that most people couldn’t even comprehend so you have to hide it from the world and hope your medications keep it at bay. All of you, regardless of your issue, doing your very best to keep your life on track and all the while make the world a better place. Please remember YOU make this world a better place, just by being you.
When you are having your good days, love them, soak them in, appreciate them. But when you are having your worst days, please, please, please remember, you are not alone. You do not have to sit in silence and the silence will only make the problems louder. There may be many people in this world who don’t understand but they aren’t who matter. You matter. And there are plenty of people out there who do understand and loads of people who love you and want to help you. So do me a favor today. If you have found yourself struggling with something, whether it be new or a demon you have been battling on your own for some time, tell one person about it. Right now. Today. Tomorrow if you need to build the courage but as soon as you can. Whether it be a friend, family, your doctor, an anonymous hotline, just pick someone you trust. Because then when things get hard you can remind yourself that TRULY you are not alone.
One day this world will be more understanding. I truly believe that. But until then I am here, standing with you, telling you that you may be anxious, depressed, scared, and feel flawed. But you are also strong, you are brave, and you can do this. And when the burden feels too heavy remind yourself, you are not alone.
<3 Kait
If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, the Lifeline network is available 24/7 across the United States. 1-800-273-8255