February 4, 2022: Why the news about Cheslie hit so close to home
This tragedy hit close to home
Hearts broke this week after hearing the news that the 2019 Miss USA, Cheslie Kryst, died by suicide on Sunday. Part of the tragedy was how many people who knew her were shocked to learn that she was battling depression because of her “light,” “beauty,” and “strength.” Cheslie’s mother revealed later in the week that the pageant queen had “high-functioning depression.”
Is that a diagnosis?
“High-functioning depression” is not a clinical term, but it’s one that is commonly used to describe people who have been diagnosed with depression but maintain normal/happy-looking lives that leave friends and family to believe nothing is wrong.
If that feels relatable, you're not alone.
The FemCatholic team wrestled this week with the realization that many of us aren’t as okay as we say we are. So many women are “go, go, go” #bossbabes that being vulnerable and seeking help becomes a challenging task.
Especially in a pandemic.
Check on your friends.
We are taking this as a wake-up call reminder to spend some time this weekend checking on the people we care about. Especially the ones we know have diagnosed mental health issues or the ones who hesitate to let their guard down. Even a simple text like, “This week was hard for me! How are you doing? Do you want to catch up?” can make a difference.
We’re in this together and need women supporting women, and it’s worth the extra effort to help try to avoid tragedies with the Cheslie’s in our own lives.
Here are a few other top picks for the week...
READ: 4 Steps to Start Prioritizing Your Mental Health
People often underestimate the value of mental health because it goes unseen. The more you develop these mental health care skills, the easier it will be to care for yourself.
WATCH: Moving Through the Dark Emotions: Anger, Fear, and Hopelessness
This talk explores the difficult, painful feelings we tend to numb or repress, and teaches you how to have the courage to enter into the broken spaces in our lives.
LEARN: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
A number you should know by heart: 800-273-8255. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress — plus prevention and crisis resources.