In this complex global world, our collective journey towards destigmatizing mental health, despite our efforts, often feels like we’re stuck in a cycle of two steps forward, one step back. As we navigate this difficult path, we encounter numerous challenges that threaten to obstruct our noble efforts.

We find ourselves at a crossroads. On one hand, there’s toxic positivity that constantly denies the existence of certain mental conditions and promotes smiles as the solution to our problems. Although its advocates may push for motivational messages of resilience and optimism, the basic principle is that we should “think positively” and our problems will magically disappear. On the other hand, there’s the alarming trend of self-diagnosis, where individuals search the internet for symptoms that match their experiences and then proudly claim to have this or that disorder. It’s like playing mental illness bingo, ticking off boxes as if collecting badges of honor. In reality, they trivialize the experiences of those truly struggling, reducing the pain and suffering of many to nothing more than a fleeting trend.

Did you know that suicide rates are rising in Macedonia, with more people taking their lives each year? This is a truly alarming statistic, yet we continue to sweep this problem under the rug, indirectly suggesting that mental health is no one’s priority. We live in a society that values appearance over authenticity, where we’d rather put on a brave face and pretend everything is fine than admit we are suffering. We live in a society where mental illness is seen as a sign of weakness, rather than a medical condition.

Caught in a cycle of comparison, constantly looking over our shoulders at what our neighboring countries have, we are left feeling inadequate and foster a sense of dissatisfaction in the community, especially when combined with economic issues like poverty and unemployment. It’s no wonder that some feel the need to leave in search of better opportunities elsewhere.

With this absence of a cohesive community, how can we navigate through this crisis? I suggest a shift in focus – a change in our approach to mental health that emphasizes positive coping strategies and resilience-building techniques, stress management techniques, and cultivating healthy habits for a healthy lifestyle that encourage individuals to take control of their well-being.

Each of us needs to amplify our voice in unity, and we must also amplify the voices of those who have triumphed over adversity, sharing their stories as hope and inspiration for others. But storytelling alone is not enough – we need to provide access to accurate statistics, resources, and support networks to guide individuals in the right direction.

Collaborate with schools, workplaces, and community organizations to implement programs and resources related to mental health education, write letters to elected officials, and participate in forums to advocate for increased funding for mental health services and programs. Support legislation and policies that prioritize mental health education, prevention, and treatment at local, national, and international levels.

By advocating for mental health, we strike at the root of all societal evils, laying the foundation for a fairer and more compassionate future.

Perhaps the most shocking of all is that we have the power to change this. It’s about rolling up our sleeves and starting to work on solutions that will actually make a difference in people’s lives. We have the power to demand better from our leaders, demand better from our healthcare system, and demand better from ourselves.

Dorotea Grkovikj

Dorothea represented Volunteers Centre Skopje at the “Keep Dreaming” youth exchange that took place from May 7th to 12th in Giardini Naxos, Sicily.