Log Kya Kahenge (What will people say?) by Eshaa
Oftentimes we worry about being perceived. How will people see me, especially if I appear weak? Struggling with one's emotions is often perceived as a sign of weakness in a lot of societies and cultures. When in reality, it really is a strength. To overcome life's battles and challenge yourself to become stronger is no easy task. It is, by no means, a sign of weakness. Forget what people will say; think about what you will say as you push forward. Mental health issues are not limited to the Western world. Mental health issues occur in the Eastern world too; there is just a lack of research and language for it. This can be due to the self-preservation trait many of us have, especially when it comes to appearing strong in front of others. It can be hard to know when to seek help and who you can trust and talk to about what you're going through.
Struggling with difficult situations life threw my way, I fell into depression at a young age. I didn't have many resources to know what this was, nor did my family and friends know how to help. They tried their best, but ultimately the depression worsened. A friend recommended therapy, and so my first experience was at a community college counseling center. And that's where it dawned on me. My Muslim experience, my Desi experience is something I am going to have to keep explaining to my therapist rather than talking about my feelings. Many people don't understand how common Islamophobia, racism, and misogyny are, and their lack of knowledge led to another barrier to treatment. This is where I realized there needs to be more people in our community to become therapists and help others in our community. I hope that in our future, therapy will become destigmatized and both the older generation and younger generation will walk into therapy when they know they need help.
About The Author
Eshaa Ahmed, LCMHCA (Ee-sha Em-med) is a Mental Health Therapist who works with clients all over North Carolina. A Desi Muslim woman who works at SolTerra Counseling in Kernersville, NC. She specializes in trauma, depression, and anxiety. She also has experience working with clients who experience racism and xenophobia. She accepts self-pay, United Healthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Aetna. She also has openings for new clients. If you are interested in treatment, check out her profile on Psychology Today to learn more.
