It’s a Big Deal

Imagine sitting in the Emergency Room with your child waiting for them to have a mental health assessment. They sit on the hospital bed wrapped in a hospital gown and lots of warmed hospital blankets. They hold their head down so low where their chin is touching their chest. Can’t even look at you in the face. Can’t say one word to you. Complete awkward silence.

They meet with the assessor and have a very long conversation. Then my turn meeting with the assessor. After our conversation we discuss the next steps of the process. My child signs voluntarily paperwork for admittance. They gave me a sheet with phone numbers and expectations of my part. My child sat in a wheelchair for transport. Hospital rules… Security escorted us to the psychiatric hall. We reached to the big doors where security said this is as far as I was allowed to go. I asked my child if they wanted a hug. They gave me half a hug. I turned and walked away.

As soon as I stepped outside it hit me I was leaving them there. Alone. Hardest thing I have done as a parent so far. On the long drive home by myself I kept thinking of how there is an epidemic of teens and young adults with mental health issues. This is something that needs more light shined on the topic. This isn’t something we should just keep sweeping under the rug. This is something we need to scream from the rooftop and begin advocating for our children over this topic.

Mental health in teens and young adults is a big social no no discussion. It’s shameful and embarrassing amongst them. How have we let it come to this? Why are we letting our children take advice from each other when it comes to mental health. I fully know when they become teens and young adults they begin listening to others for advice, but we have to do a better job of making sure we keep reminding them of other options out there for mental health. There is no shame in caring for oneself.

Putting oneself first is not selfish. This is a necessity for life. If we don’t take the time for our own mental health first we will lose ourself. Seek out help whether that is through prayer, family, or professionally. If medication is what is best for you, take it. Don’t feel shame or embarrassment. Feel peace and love knowing you are doing what is best for you.