I don’t believe that only one in four of us suffers with mental health. I think that we all have to be aware of our fragile minds, in much the same way as we do our physical wellbeing.
It’s rare that an old vase is pristine, and actually few will be crack or chip free, because they have a functional purpose – just like us. Some vases will appear to be in good condition, yet it’s often only when we examine them that we find hairline cracks or faded flowers, stubborn stains.
Perhaps we search for the latest tip on how we can revive our flower holders – bicarbonate of soda could increase the vibrancy of the paintwork. Or if that fails, then do we simply hope that the bough of greenery will disguise the flaws?

In many ways, especially in the Western culture, we’re encouraged to disguise our flaws to such an extent that the majority of us answer that we’re “fine” – when we’re really not. Yet, those of us with depression are particularly good at smiling – we’re consummate actors, we’re in every walk of life.

Thankfully, showing our flaws, or talking about mental health, remains a current topic. Yet, we’re still not talking, or listening, enough.
So look out for each other, see if you can spot those concealed cracks in others. See if you can start a conversation with someone, or listen to what they have to say, or even share a smile – a simple smile spreads like the sun!