I have had the privilege of working as a Board Certified Psychiatrist and Addiction Medicine physician in Memphis for more than fifteen years. As I reflect on May being Mental Health Awareness month, I consider that the single most important idea to convey in this article is the importance of practicing loving compassion towards oneself. Self-compassion is the cornerstone of mental wellness and thriving.
In a post-pandemic world with ongoing geo-political strife, community violence, and our own interpersonal psychosocial stressors, we often struggle in silence with symptoms such as depression, anxiety, panic, sleep disturbance, inattentiveness, over-consumption of alcohol, food, or other signs suggesting a lack of neurobiological health. The last five years have been full of challenges and psycho-spiritually traumatizing times. In my clinical work, I see individuals with these symptoms now more than ever.
Unfortunately, mental illness is also often misperceived and stigmatized. There is an ‘other-ness’ when we think of mental illness, as though this is a disease that occurs to individuals ‘out there.’ The reality is that per the NIMH, one in five Americans struggle with mental illness annually. Psychiatric diagnosis and symptoms are something to contend with right here, in our backyards, at work, in our schools, in our religious communities, in our circle of dear friends, and in our families. Despite social media posts, which often are laden with positivity, the reality is that many individuals find themselves or a loved one in dark moments wondering, “Why am I feeling this way…?” or “What is wrong with me?”
Suffering is a universal human experience, and when faced with those inevitable dark moments, I urge us all to consider momentarily pausing our inner critics. Suppose we can simply suspend judgment for a few seconds, making space for grace towards oneself. In that case, we can begin to do the important work of examining our pain, seeking out professional help, and eventually healing into a more empowered self. A self that has suffered, endured, and grown not simply in spite of the struggle but often because of the struggle.
Memphians are resilient. We are a city characterized by grit and grind. As we continue to grind through our individual trials and tribulations, I urge us to consider the importance of awareness surrounding our own mental health. Let us remember to extend ourselves kindness by slowing down to watch the sunset over the Mississippi or relish the taste of barbecue on a hot summer night. Let us remember when we feel most vulnerable to have the courage to ask for assistance. Let us remember when we feel utterly alone to extend a hand for help. Though it is far from perfect, all we have is each other, and that may be all we need. A city that is known for the Blues knows how to alchemize it into the soul.
Shubi Shakti, MD, Board Certified in Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine, and a certified Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapist by UC Berkeley, is the Medical Director and founder of Blues & Soul Psychiatry, a multidisciplinary mental health treatment clinic with physicians, nurse practitioners, Licensed Social Workers, Licensed Counselors, a program for veterans and a ketamine/esketamine program. For more information or to make an appointment, visit Bluesandsoulpsychiatry.com or call 901.315.9699.
By Shubi Shakti, MD
