Is it really ok to be not ok?

This has become such a popular thing to say, but what they actually mean is that it is ok to talk about not being ok. But the actions that come with mental illness are still very much not ok. If I have a day where I can't get out of bed because of depression, and a coworker has to come in last minute to cover my shift... again, is that ok? If I promised my wife I'd watch the kids so she could go out with friends, but I that night I was frantic with crippling anxiety so she had to cancel, would that be ok? But a celebrity saying, "I'm depressed and look how successful I am." That's what's ok. Just my thoughts... as you were.

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SW-User

Up to a point. I don't think anyone is referring to severe mental illness. I think people are just implying that it's okay if you're unhappy some days, because while happiness is temporary, sadness is too. And you shouldn't feel bad for allowing yourself to feel bad while you ride it out. If you're dealing with negative emotions that are overwhelm you to the point that they're affecting your everyday life, you should absolutely seek help.

pjeffries85 · 36-40, M

@SW-User Thank you for the thoughtful response. I've found help that has helped, but unfortunately nothing always helps. There's still those days where the mask slips.

SStarfish ·

Its one thing to not be ok.. its another thing to inconvenience and disappoint other people because you want to wallow in misery. Sometimes you have to think of other people and do what you have to do and are expected to do regardless of how you feel. Its called being responsible.. plus then you will make other people happier which will then possibly make you happier in the long run

pjeffries85 · 36-40, M

@SStarfish I agree with you, but that is really the point I was making. It's ok to feel depression or feel anxious, but it's not ok to let it effect your actions. So you do the responsible thing. You roll yourself out of bed and go to work. You put on a brave face and tell your wife that you're really ok. And it's exhausting and unrelenting. Then that one day out of dozens you just don't have the energy, and people look at you with disgust and tell you that you're "wallowing in misery".

SStarfish ·

Do they know about this tho? Look if you need help and support emotionally then you should left them know.. i think thats what it means.. but if you leave them in the dark about it then you cant blame them for not understanding.. @pjeffries85

Pitchblue

An affliction that no one can see but you. Even the doctors just throw pills at it. "Have you ever taken these pills?" So between the doctor and yourself you are the one with the experience but the doctor just says more pills.
It's not OK but no one can really help but you.

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