Not all heroes wear capes.

There has been some great progress in how we talk about mental health. Many high-profile celebrities and sports people have come out and spoken about their struggles with mental health. They get words of praise, enthusiastic respect and often invitations to speak to captive audiences about their experience. Only good things can come from this as we realise that life is a great leveler. I also believe the more we talk about mental health the more likely people are to seek help if they are struggling. Overall, I can’t see a down side to this.

However, it got me thinking, what about the average person who battles everyday with depression, anxiety or suicidal thoughts. Or what about those average people who face some of life’s greatest challenges and battle on with no fanfare or recognition of what they have achieved. In Arthur Millers, Death of a Salesman there is the famous quote “A small man can be just as exhausted as a great man”. Let me clear, I don’t think any life or person is more important than another. I just wanted to make the distinction between those who are able to share their experiences because of their social or celebrity status and those who for the most part suffer and recover in silence.

I speak to and hear about so many people who have battled for years and not only dealt with their mental health issues but also many who have overcome them. Everyday people who overcame their own challenges and many who start programs and charities to help others who are struggling. You know who you are and what you have accomplished. So, I would like to congratulate you on your achievements, away from the fanfare and admiration of peers and the public. You are the true heroes.

Wishing you all the best in your journey

Phil Miranda

Source: Death of a Salesman: Certain Private Conversations in Two Acts and a Requiem (Penguin Modern Classics)