I was struck, this week, by how personal pressures coupled with work pressures and everyday stresses such as commuting, shopping, cooking and cleaning can push someone over the edge.
However, I was more struck by how there is not so much a stigma of mental illness any more, but that this is a harsh world in which to be kind and considerate is rarely the first option.
Thoughtlessness, ruthlessness, carelessness and selfishness are permeating the society we live in. If you’re struggling with a personal trauma or laden down with grief or stresses from poor relationships at home or at work, life can just become unbearable.
We need to bring back kindness and patience. Yes, we all need to be resilient, but we can be resilient only if we are met by kindness, understanding and patience at least on some days.
Random acts of kindness need to be part of everyone’s day.
See mentalhealthireland.ie; yourmentalhealth.ie; samaritans.ie or tel. 116 123 to contact the Samaritans
