By Stan Popovich

It can be frustrating to struggle with your mental health and to get your family and friends to understand where you are coming from. Although most people may be understanding, there are usually one or two people who will make things more challenging for you.

Hopefully, the following suggestions can help.

  1. Listen to the professionals. Your friends may mean well, but when it comes down to it, health professionals are likely to be more aware of your circumstances and able to discuss them with you. It is important that you listen and follow the advice from a health care provider, rather than following advice from your friends and other people you may know.
  2. Don’t argue with others. It is important that you do not get into arguments with those who are giving you a tough time. It is not your job to worry about how others may view your circumstances. Focus on managing your mental health rather than trying to get everyone’s approval.
  3. Choose your friends wisely. Distance yourself from those who don’t try to understand what you are going through. You need to surround yourself with positive and supportive people. If you have problems or issues with a particular person, then it is best to keep your distance and hang out with people in your life who are more supportive.
  4. Attend a mental health support group. There are many mental health support groups in any given area. Many hospitals, churches, and counselors in your area will be able to provide you with a list of these organizations. These support groups will be familiar with situations like yours, and they are able to provide you with resources and guidance.
  5. You are not alone. There are millions of people around the world who struggle with fears, anxieties, and depression. Many of your relatives and friends have likely struggled with anxiety and stress at some point. Do not feel that you are alone when it comes to your mental health, because there are so many people around you who can relate to what you are experiencing.
  6. Your goal is to get better. Focus on how you can handle the anxieties and stresses in your life rather than arguing with others who are giving you a difficult time. This isn’t a public relations event where you need to get approval from everyone. This is your life, and you need to be more concerned about getting your life back on track rather than pleasing everyone else.

Stan is the author of “A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear” which covers a variety of techniques that can drastically improve your mental health. For more information, please visit Stan’s website at http://www.managingfear.com