Is Everybody, Somewhere, Struggling with a Psychological Issue?
It is true that everyone occasionally experiences moments of discomfort. However, to assume that every individual is in a state of distress at all times would render the term meaningless.
A Perspective From Outer Space
As a long-time advocate of the idea that Earth might be nothing more than an alien's asylum, my stance remains firm. Some individuals appear to be in a more acute state of distress than others. Yet, this does not necessarily imply that everyone is constantly suffering.
The DSM-IV and Mental Disorders
Dr. Allen Frances, the former Chairman of DSM-IV, emphasized that every man, woman, and child potentially suffers from twelve mental disorders. While this statement might seem alarming, it should be interpreted in the context of the spectrum of mental health.
A Tale of Perspectives on Mental Illness
Is it true that everyone, to some degree, is struggling with a psychological issue? Yes, and no. If one is happy, healthy, and leads a fulfilling life, they are not necessarily mentally ill. Their brain disregards the daily atrocities that occur, including the knowledge that they and their loved ones will eventually perish in ways that may be terrible. Everything one loves will eventually cease to exist, including the Earth, sun, and stars, and no one will be remembered, no matter what they do.
Conversely, if one understands this and sees no reason to continue because it feels meaningless, are they mentally ill, or do they simply see the big picture? Some might argue that in a sense, everyone is mentally ill because everyone has experienced pain or has something wrong with them. However, it's important to differentiate who can handle such challenges and move past them and who cannot.
Striking a Balance Between Resilience and Acceptance
Mentally healthy individuals can handle these challenges and move past them. They can accept that in the long run, nothing truly matters but everything matters now. They may never be remembered in the future or commended for their genius by strangers who wonder what it was like to live in their time. However, they will be remembered by those who matter now and share the same struggles.
Striving to feel special often requires distancing oneself from the people one wants to belong to. To be a productive part of a group, one needs to fit in rather than stand out. Find something or someone you love and fill your life with moments of joy. When hardships occur, take a deep breath and embrace them. Understand that bad things happening now are usually preceded by good and will be followed by more good.
Ultimately, remember that when the universe ends, it is uncertain whether what comes next is better. What is important is embracing the present and making the most of it.