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Are there any disadvantages to mental health advocacy?

Donie Lavigne

Well, well, well, let's talk about the elephant in the room, shall we? Is there anything wrong with advocating for mental health? As much as I would like to answer with an emphatic "no", alas, there are some disadvantages to mental health advocacy.

First and foremost, mental health advocacy can be a bit overwhelming. Whether you are the proclaimed mental health advocate among your friends or family, or you run an entire campaign, the weight on your shoulders can be daunting. There are times when you may feel like you are carrying the entire world on your shoulders, juggling your own mental health, and the well-being of others. So, be prepared to deal with a bit of stress if you choose to advocate for mental health.

Secondly, you will inevitably face some criticism. Believe it or not, not everyone is on-board with discussing mental health openly and honestly. Some folks may even express their dissent or disbelief quite vocally. Their words and actions could weigh heavily on your mental health as well, so it is important to learn how to draw boundary lines properly.

Thirdly, there is a risk of backlash. Even if you are not making any missteps, simply talking about mental health can be perceived as dangerous or taboo in some parts of the world. People may go so far as to blacklist you, harass you online, or threaten you in person. It's a devastating blow, to say the least.

Lastly, mental health advocacy can be costly, both in terms of money and time. Joining a mental health campaign could cost you a hefty amount of cash, and you may spend hours a week campaigning, spreading awareness, or simply giving a listening ear. It's important to calculate the costs before jumping in headfirst.

In conclusion, as much as we would like to pretend advocating for mental health is a walk in the park, the truth is, it can be quite challenging. But that shouldn't discourage you from taking up the mantle. If you're passionate and willing to put in the work, then go for it. The world needs more people like you.