There’s a major cover-up going on – in homes, workplaces and communities. In many cases the standard of living is going up but, for many, the quality of life is going down. On the treadmill of life, it is often easier and quicker to look for short-term fixes to find relief and numb the pain and cover up the truth. Finding the solutions to a better quality of life begins when we STOP the cover-up and start treating the cause.
The World Health Organization reports that depression is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide and is a major contributor to the overall global burden of disease. Globally, more than 264 million people of all ages suffer from depression. Considering the challenges we have faced over the last 12 months, it is no surprise that mental health has become the focus for many.
Among the frustration, stress and strain, many look for relief to cover-up underlying issues. Relief can come in many forms like painkillers, drugs, cigarettes, alcohol or sleeping tablets. We can use avoidance techniques like denial, delusion, procrastination, oversleeping, overeating, over socializing and overworking. Although the cover-up offers temporary relief and often pleasure it simply acts as a band-aid. These major issues beg for more permanent relief.
The solution does come with some discomfort as often “the truth hurts”. It requires us to find the cause of the pain and work out what needs fixing. What is it that keeps you awake at night? What causes your pain? When we STOP the cover up and find our truth the journey towards fulfilment begins. Now is the perfect time of year to reflect on 2020, to celebrate the wins and to learn from the setbacks. It all begins when we are prepared to STOP the cover-up; reveal the truth and START to live a better quality of life!
If you’re feeling a little lost, not sure how to plan ahead in this current continued uncertainty, and ready to turn the page in 2021 and start fresh – then I’m here for you ????