By Ese Oribhabor – Egbes, Intern at IVI PR
There was a time when conversations about mental health were whispered like taboos—avoided, dismissed, or labeled a “topic for weaklings.” They were silenced by older generations who feared the stigma, often saying, “God forbid my child has any mental problems.” However, mental health is about more than extreme cases or clinical diagnoses; it is a fundamental part of human biology that affects how we think, feel, rest, work, and interact with the people we love.
Behind perfectly curated Instagram posts, professional achievements, and busy schedules, many students and young professionals suffer from depression, anxiety, burnout, and loneliness. They face a relentless barrage of academic pressure, financial stress, and the social demand to “have it all together.” Despite these challenges, stigma still prevents many from speaking up. It convinces people that their struggle is a source of shame, forcing them to suffer in silence—and sometimes die quietly—when help is right outside the door.
The older generation often asks, “What do you kids know? You have it easy.” This is often a form of projection. They survived their own childhood traumas without therapy, so they wonder why we cannot do the same. But while this generation is more connected online, many feel deeply unseen offline. This “easier” generation faces increased competition, unrealistic appearance standards, and the pressure to perform better than the “21-year-old who just retired his parents.” We are dealing with the same old problems, just on a much larger scale.
Mental health advocacy is not a trend or a cry for attention; it is a necessary, daily conversation. Humans cannot exist in isolation, and we must treat the wellness of others with significance. Creating safe spaces for these conversations helps people realize they are not alone or “broken.”
We may not always know the weight of the pain someone carries, which is why empathy matters. The child who got a “B” may have stayed up all night to achieve it. The boy wearing the same shirt for the fourth time is likely well-aware of his poverty and is trying to work his way out. The “fat girl” does not need a reminder of her weight; she needs kindness so she doesn’t turn to self-harm.
If a child tells you they are tired, do not ignore them—they are asking for help. If a daughter says she is depressed after a loss, do not call her dramatic. Be kinder, more patient, and more understanding. Be the good you would like to see in the world. Mental health conversations matter because the more people speak, the more others will find the courage to speak up, too.
