Most of us know what it's like to suffer a physical injury.
First, there's the shock and pain of the immediate injury. Then, there's the long-term consequences of that injury. If we are hurt badly — such as if we have a broken bone or a bruised internal organ — we might require care from medical professionals. This could mean a trip to the hospital, followed by several months of rehabilitation and recovery.
Over time, our bodies can heal. If we're fortunate, we can recover fully and keep living our lives as if nothing ever happened. Even if we remain weakened in one area, we can compensate by growing stronger in others. That ankle injury might end our track and field career prematurely, but we could take up rowing instead.
Mental health challenges are no different.
The onset of a mental health challenge can be just as abrupt and unexpected as a physical injury. Like a physical injury, it might be mild, moderate, or severe. In some cases, a person might need assistance from professional care providers to get better.
And as with physical injury, someone who experiences a mental health challenge can recover and live a full, happy life — even if their challenge never "goes away" completely.
Everyone can play a role in recovery.
The onset of a mental health challenge can be just as abrupt and unexpected as a physical injury. Like a physical injury, it might be mild, moderate, or severe. In some cases, a person might need assistance from professional care providers to get better.
And as with physical injury, someone who experiences a mental health challenge can recover and live a full, happy life — even if their challenge never "goes away" completely.
