A love letter to those working in the mental health space
Dear beautiful human,
You are a hero. You’re my hero. You’re a superhero in my eyes. Before many people across the world became more aware of mental health, you consistently sounded the alarms. You fiercely shouted, yelled, and raised your hands to warn people. You passionately spoke up about mental health when it wasn’t a trend. When it was stigmatized and never talked about, you put your values in front of being accepted and liked. Before it was cool or hot, you took a leap of faith — a leap of conviction to do work that is not easy. Work that requires dedication, commitment, humility, and a deep passion and care.
You wake up every day and dedicate your life to the alleviation, treatment of human suffering. And sometimes, you do it at the cost of your wellbeing. You empathetically educated others when they spoke unknowingly about the topic. You held difficult conversations with the people you love to get them on the same page. You played the role of “therapist” for your family and community — even if it wasn’t in a clinical setting…and even if you weren’t an actual therapist.
You have felt like giving up so many times — whether it was because of an unreasonable amount of work, or because you’re not sure if you are really making a difference, or because of your own mental health challenges. But, you kept going, regardless. You’ve made ALL the difference. You are pushing forward in carrying out some of the most important work needed on earth.
Because of you, we are closer to where we need to be. A world where mental health is no longer stigmatized and everyone has a just and fair opportunity to reach their best health. A world where mental health is prioritized and services are accessible globally. We have a long way to go ahead — and we need you — but I want you to know that we couldn’t get here without you.
I see you. I recognize you. I honor you, I celebrate you, I respect you, and I love you.
Thank you for your service to humanity.
May you always find the same love, healing, and care you give to the world to yourself.
With love,
Mahmoud Khedr
