Study: Speaking about mental health issues can reduce anxiety
Experts say when these issues are featured on tv, movies or on stage, it can start a conversation on mental health.
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Mental health studies show by discussing stressful and shameful issues, people can reduce their anxiety or depression and prevent suicide.
Experts say when these issues are featured on tv, movies or on stage, it can start a conversation on mental health.
This weekend, the Fairfield Center Stage will perform the musical "Fun Home" at the Trevi Lounge. The show highlights topics such as LGBTQ acceptance, family secrets and suicide.
Noelle Nevins, a therapist with Family Centers, told News 12 although times are changing when it comes de stigmatizing mental health struggles, many people still struggle on a daily basis. That was the case for Erin Harlow-Parker, whose husband died by suicide last year.
"That shame and stigma is what gets in the way and prevents people from accessing help," said Harlow-Parker. "When you're struggling and, clearly, I'd imagine that was going on for my husband since it was not something we were aware of that he struggled with."
Nevins added if people believe someone is suicidal, it needs to be addressed immediately.
"It's really important to be very direct and say you know I noticed that you seem down, you seem to self-isolate, you're not really yourself anymore and I'm concerned," she said. "And I love you, and I'm here, and nothing you say is going to change that."
