It’s Okay Not to Be Okay: Redefining Strength in Mental Health

In a world that celebrates productivity, resilience, and constant positivity, struggling can feel like failure. We’re often told to “stay strong,” “push through,” or “look on the bright side.” While these phrases are usually well-intended, they can unintentionally silence a very human truth: sometimes, we are not okay—and that’s okay.

There is a myth in western culture that we have a need for constant strength. Strength is often misunderstood as the ability to endure without breaking. But real strength isn’t about never struggling; it’s about recognizing when you are and choosing to care for yourself anyway. Mental health challenges don’t discriminate—they affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and levels of success. Experiencing anxiety, depression, burnout, or grief does not make you weak. It makes you human.

Many of us were never taught how to identify or express our emotions. We may label everything as “stress” or “tired,” when underneath there’s sadness, fear, or overwhelm. Naming what you’re feeling is a powerful first step toward healing. When you can say, “I’m anxious,” or “I’m exhausted emotionally,” you give yourself permission to respond with compassion instead of judgment.

Another common myth is that rest is a reward. When in fact, one of the most radical acts of self-care is rest. Not the kind you earn after finishing everything on your to-do list, but rest as a basic human need. Mental rest might look like taking a break from social media, saying no without explaining yourself, or allowing a quiet moment without guilt. You don’t need to justify rest—your mind deserves it.

Reaching out can be one of the hardest steps, especially if you’re used to being “the strong one.” But asking for help is not a burden; it’s an act of trust. Whether it’s a friend, family member, therapist, or support group, connection can ease the weight you’ve been carrying alone. There can be so much power in asking for help. Healing doesn’t have to happen in isolation.

Mental health journeys aren’t linear. Some days, getting out of bed is a victory. Other days, you might feel motivated and hopeful. Both are valid. Progress isn’t measured by perfection—it’s measured by persistence, even when that persistence looks small. No matter the size of the step it still counts.

A gentle reminder. You are not broken. You are not behind. And you don’t need to have everything figured out to be worthy of care, understanding, and support. If today feels heavy, let that be enough for now. Take one breath, one step, one moment at a time.

You’re allowed to be a work in progress.