This week, I watched our Prime Minister offer a speech on reforming welfare. Whilst I am a therapist, not a politician, in essence, the two are inextricably linked. Political decision and influence shapes culture; the mainstream narrative that dictates how we go about our lives. Macro (the culture) affects the micro (you as an individual).
Over recent years, I have been delighted to observe more focus on ‘mental health’ from those with the power to make decisions that affect a nation. Although this term has never felt adequate to me, suggesting a top down, head only, individual ‘issue’ (omitting a plethora of other impacts, situations and environments), I understand the intention of coining such a phrase.
During the speech, I heard sentences such as:
“In the period since the pandemic, something has gone wrong.”
“People are not sicker than they were a decade ago.”
“People say they have depression and anxiety.”
I was (still am) astounded at the dialogue utilised during the speech and the way in which it was delivered.
To all those reading this who have been affected by ‘mental health’ (before or after the pandemic), I want you to know that I see you. As a therapist, I know how real and serious ‘mental health’ can be. None of it is ‘easy’. Getting through each hour can feel immeasurably difficult. Accessing any kind of support in order to do this (under our current system) can often feel impossible.
Please know that there are people, like me, that exist in the world who see you. People like me who know that your struggles are real. People like me who believe in your experiencing and know that this is not something that you chose for an ‘easy life’.
Perhaps most importantly, whilst personal responsibility and agency are vital, there are people, like me, who know that what happened to you is not your fault. You didn’t ask for this and you deserve support, compassion and humanity whilst attempting to navigate through it.
Sending love and support to all impacted by the Prime Ministers speech.
You’re not on your own.
Promise.
J X
I am unsure if my comment posted as I cannot see it grrrr!!! but just to thank you so much for your support here which brought a tear of love and even a smile today when Sunak's speech has done nothing but fuel even more hatred for myself and anyone with unseen disabilities.? I am so worried about the future whoever wins the nest election because I fear such hatred has been fuelled which may be irreversible? Thank you Julie x