There's more to us than what we present to others, and maybe during Mental Health Week, we can try to unmask.
The Canadian Mental Health Association is observing Mental Health Week from May 5-11 by promoting the theme of 'unmasking mental health.'
'Masking' is hiding aspects of ourselves from others to try to fit in with perceptions of 'normal,' according to the CMHA. It might mean hiding depression and anxiety, characteristics of neurodivergence, gender identity or sexual orientation, or substance use. Masking is done in many ways – it can be as simple as replying to a friend or loved one that we're fine when we're not, and another example might be presenting an idealized image of our lives on our social media channels.
'People-pleasing' is a common masking behaviour, the CMHA notes, and so is projecting toughness. Masking all the time can be mentally exhausting, and can keep us from forming authentic relationships, leading to isolation, disconnection and a loss of self-identity.
"When we're able to be ourselves, to shed our masks, we create deeper connections which strengthen our sense of belonging, improve self-esteem and support good mental health," notes the association. "But unmasking isn't just a switch we can flip, it's a gradual process of unlearning established behaviours and it requires people to feel safe and accepted."
A CMHA toolkit offers resources including a list of masking behaviours that we can recognize in ourselves or observe in others; however, the association also stresses that masking isn't just an individual problem, but a social one. Any of us can work to lessen stigma and create safe spaces where people feel as though they can share more of themselves. Conversations about mental health will help. If someone who may be masking says they're fine, it's often OK to ask them again, with care and with interest.
Individually and as a community, let's challenge notions of 'normal,' take on stigma, talk openly, and try to unmask mental health. Maintaining our mental health can be hard enough without having to do it behind a mask.
To learn about mental health resources available on the mid Island, click here. Or visit the Canadian Mental Health Association website at http://cmha.ca.
