What Can Be Done?

           In order to address generalized anxiety disorder to the fullest extent, our understanding of health and mental health must be uprooted. Currently, health is understood as something that exists in a vacuum and is mostly affected by germs and microbes in our environment. We can stay healthy by washing our hands, eating well, and exercising. We are also encouraged to go to the doctor regularly to ensure that we are in good health. However, in many ways mental health cannot be understood in this way. Mental health disorders are not “caught” through germs; they manifest and are triggered with age. As long as there are stigmas attached to mental health disorders, individuals will feel uncomfortable going into therapy and receiving treatment. On the flipside of this, as long as any emotions and worries outside of society’s defined norm are considered disorders, then individuals’ problems will continue to be medicalized regardless if it is warranted.

            A solution I’ve seen enacted right here on campus is within the Tang Center’s “Do you!” campaign around things such as dating, drinking, and sex. This campaign encourages individuals to decisions for themselves according to their own needs. I’ve also seen it manifest in safe spaces at events as a means to encourage individuals to do whatever makes them feel comfortable in that space. This year at a panel for ASUC elections hosted by GenEq, the introduction encouraged everyone present that it was okay to leave the room if you felt uncomfortable and that it was important that you did what was necessary for you to feel safe and healthy in that space. A move towards inclusive spaces like this would be highly beneficial to those with varying degrees of mental health. As society removes the stigmas attached to panic attacks and other reactions associated with anxiety, hopefully those grappling with these conditions can feel more included and able to venture into unknown spaces.

            There are still issues with symptoms of anxiety being seen as illegitimate or irrational. If more people were educated and understanding of the sensitivity some individuals exhibit to certain experiences, individuals with anxiety would feel comfortable expressing these fears. One of the best tools we can use for this is education. As I’ve learned throughout the semester in my disability studies class, simply engaging with differently abled individuals can be a crucial learning experience. I can only hope that as time goes on our society will become more inclusive and understanding of those with mental conditions.