I have read several articles on mental health. Most of the mental health service providers seem to be agreeing that ‘it is okay not to be okay.’ Just like in the many normalizations that we have had with different social issues, we seem to be drawing an agreement that it is okay to feel a heavy heart. It is rather a cheap way of addressing a situation. The Centennials would associate with the language because it communicates how they wish it was done, by covering the real problem. The approach is taking a toll in many other spheres where society is expected to compromise on the platform of youth mainstreaming.
The
World Health Organization defines mental health as a state of wellbeing in
which the individual realizes his or her abilities, can cope with the normal
stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and can contribute to
his or her community. Due to the pressures of life, many people are unable to
access basic needs like food, shelter, clothing, and healthcare. This is coupled
with the intricate nature of activities that one has to undertake to earn a
living. This blurs the realization of the individual’s abilities. The
individual feels unappreciated because he or she cannot have an achievement
besides surviving. With the pile-up of stress, the individual falls for negative
coping strategies that worsen their mental health status. The effect of this is
an unproductive life and alienation from community contribution.
The
approach of one being okay even if they are not feeling okay gives a false impression,
yet cognitively, the person is disturbed. The expression seeks to create
hallucination in an individual, to assume tranquillity where it lacks.
This article proposes a reframing of the phrase to acknowledge that it is not okay not to feel okay. In addition, that not being okay means that remedial action is necessary. If one does not contribute to the development of the community, there is a problem. If one does not acknowledge their capabilities, then there is a problem. Further, if one fails to cope with the stresses of life, and ends up in hallucinogens, drugs and substance abuse, then there is a red flag. The proverbial garbage truck makes a good start in understanding mental illnesses. The human mind is like a garbage truck. It is full of filth. The filth is the stress that people have to go through in everyday life. If the garbage truck empties at the wrong place, then it will cause a mess. Hence, it should only release at a designated point of collection. Similarly, an easily irritable human being symbolizes emptying of the garbage at undesignated points. On a slight trigger, someone may experience a disproportionate reaction. It is not okay to act in such a manner.
