GLADSTONE, Mich. (WLUC) — A man from the Upper Peninsula is sharing his family\’s tale of hope as they navigated through his son\’s battle with mental health issues. His aim is to inspire others to share their experiences too.
On Monday evening, Jeff Olson addressed an audience gathered at Gladstone High School, sharing insights into his son\’s battle with anxiety and depression over many years. Tragically, his son Daniel took his own life at the young age of 19.
Olson mentioned that following his son’s initial attempt and resulting hospital stays, he and his spouse opted to keep their family’s challenges hidden. Nonetheless, after Daniel passed away in 2012, they chose to share their story with others.
He states that when individuals voice their concerns, it may inspire others to seek assistance.
Individuals facing challenges often hesitate to step forward due to societal prejudices,\” Olson stated. \”However, when numerous others share their experiences, these individuals will likely feel more inclined to speak up, seek assistance, receive the support they require, and ultimately live a healthier lifestyle.
Olson mentions his desire to assist individuals in grasping what constitutes mental illness.
There’s significant stigmatization associated with mental illnesses where people might think that individual is insane, lacking strength, unable to cope with normal daily activities, or perhaps merely feigning symptoms or stirring up trouble,\” Olson stated. \”The public doesn’t realize that actual physiological changes occur within the brain… They fail to comprehend that this constitutes a genuine medical condition. Mental illness is essentially a medical ailment affecting the brain.
Olson likewise displayed the \’Do it for Daniel\’
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regarding his child\’s struggle with anxiety and depression.
Should you or anyone you\’re aware of be grappling with suicidal tendencies or behaviors, they can reach out by calling or texting 988 to get connected with a qualified crisis counselor.