'We have to talk about it': Overcoming the mental health stigma

LOGAN — It can affect people of all ages, and Utah's rate of mental illness remains higher than the national average.

"This is like any other medical condition or concern. We have to talk about it," said Regina Dickinson, a licensed clinical social worker at the Intermountain Health Dayspring Clinic.

"Because we have this stigma built around it, people don't talk about it," she said. "We need to feel comfortable talking about it."

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and this year's theme is "Turn Awareness into Action." Dickinson said we "take action" by watching for withdrawal or disengagement in those around us.

"A lot of times people will become quiet," she said. "Maybe you were meeting with your friends once a month for lunch, and all of a sudden you haven't seen somebody in a couple of weeks. That is one of the biggest signs is that isolation."

When talking to a loved one, ask open-ended questions, Dickinson says, such as "What's been going on lately?" and actively listen to their response.

"Just listen, and say, 'I can be here for you.' I know it makes some of us scared because we don't know what to do in that situation. But once again, just listen. That's what somebody needs," she said. "If you can do that component, then you're on the step to guiding them to the help that they may need."

You can offer to help them find resources, but don't push them.

"Sometimes people aren't ready to seek that outside help, but you can be a support," Dickinson said. "Maybe take them to a yoga class or even take them for a walk. We know nature is amazing for reducing stress and reducing anxiety."

Dickinson also noted the importance of setting healthy boundaries.

"Sometimes we give so much of ourselves that we have nothing left for ourselves," she said. "We need to set those healthy boundaries and say, 'OK, I do want to help in these situations, and this is how far I can help and this is what I can do for others.'"

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