Any mental disorder, by definition, seriously affects the lives of the people who suffer from it, otherwise it would not be considered a disorder.
The negative connotation attached to mental illness creates a stigma where people feel as though they have the authority to unfairly judge an individual and treat them negatively based on their mental health.
We’ve all grown up around prejudices and judgmental thinking, however the stigma can sometimes be worse than the symptoms one may initially feel.
Feeling like you are different from everyone else and constantly under a microscope is physically and mentally draining.
It is difficult and uncomfortable enough for someone to muster up enough courage to talk about such major and personal details. The fear of seeming weak, fragile or judged should not be another worry they have to face.
Therapy can be a solution, however it is an expensive one that also involves scheduling and transportation, which not everyone has the time or money for.
In addition, therapy inevitably carries an unfortunate and very heavy stigma. Although there are efforts towards ending the stigma, there is still great progress that needs to be made in society’s understanding and communication in dealing with mental health issues and awareness.
7 Cups of Tea is an online emotional health and well-being service that creates an environment for individuals to speak freely, instantly, and anonymously.
“Unlike talking to family or friends, a 7 Cups of Tea listener doesn’t judge or try to solve problems and say what to do. Our listeners just listen. They understand. They give you the space you need to help you clear your head,” reads a statement on 7 Cups of Tea.
7 Cups of Tea employs active listeners with trained communication skills that demonstrate all the aspects of your best friend, your dog, and your therapist all rolled into one.
Active listening is unique because of its instantaneous design. Participants do not need to worry about if what they are saying will make sense to someone. There is no pressure, no stress, and no discomfort.
It is a safe place to vent any grievances that may be on your mind or just talk to someone when you’re feeling alone.
The message board resembles an iMessage layout and you are able to talk to an active listener one-on-one or in a group setting.
You are able to track your personal path and you have full access to 32 self-help guides that provide information on a variety of disorders that you may have questions about, as well as suggestions on how to cope or manage your mental health.
Whether you are on the site to get something off your chest or you just want to talk to someone, it is important to note that a listener will not be able to provide any medical or psychological advice during conversations.
Another really amazing feature on the site is the Mood Boosts page, where you are essentially guided in different types of meditation or talks.
7 Cups of Tea is a mood booster in itself, filled with positive messages and a welcoming atmosphere.
It is a safe place and completely anonymous. If you are looking to help end the stigma behind mental health, 7 Cups of Tea is a great place to start.
There is even the option to apply and take the course to become an active listener for someone else. Let the impact you have on someone’s life be a positive one and remember that if you need to talk, there are always someone there to listen.
Jodie Vanderslot, Staff Writer
Featured image courtesy of 7 Cups of Tea
