We have all been struggling, especially in the last two years due to restrictions, compromises and a huge change in society. And as much as it has affected us physically, our mental health was challenged more than ever before. A lot of people live in denial, are too afraid to talk about their struggles or feel ashamed because of them. As hard as it can be, we have to seek help at some point to not lose control over our own minds. If you’re not OK up there, nothing can fall into place, like a puzzle piece can’t fit if its form doesn’t go with the rest of the picture.
Someone I personally admire and have asked for advice is Dr. Vera Ora; an inspiring psychiatrist, strong cancer survivor and a mum of three. Not only did she get herself on the road to recovery, Vera became an important part of the mental health support system. A superhero as her daughter and global superstar Rita Ora would say. A smart woman with a vision that includes breaking the stigma around mental health and bringing awareness to the importance of treating mental health issues like we would treat any physical illness. Besides that, Vera mentions the importance of taking care of the young generation, making sure they are more educated when it comes to not just mental health in general but treating others with kindness; especially nowadays with social media being a huge part of our lives. I got the chance to interview Vera last year and what she had to say was extremely educational as well as inspiring. She is giving mental health her voice and tries her absolute best to show the realness too many aren’t seeing.
A lot of countries limit access to proper care and treatment, which leads to a continuous increase of those in need of it. While it may seem like it is an illness you are stuck with for life, it can be treated with therapy and proper medication. There are so many false assumptions and misconceptions due to a lack of education in that certain field. So what does that mean for us? We have to start speaking up. Let’s get real and make others understand the realness behind mental health issues and how we as a generation can be advocates for a mentally brighter future. With the digital world being on the rise, we have the opportunity to use social media as a platform to bring awareness to a global issue that is affecting everyone.
By learning from women like Vera, we can not only educate ourselves and understand it better, but spread the word within our own generation. Through that, we can work on a better and much safer future, leaving a mindful legacy and real impact. Spreading positivity matters more than ever and connecting with people all around the world has become much more valuable and extremely effective.
Besides advocating for the realness behind mental health issues, Vera Ora is known and loved for her fun fashion statements she documents on her Instagram under the hashtag Visuals with Vera and we are here for it!
“I kind of thought I’m gonna do something that is going to be me. I feel very young at heart and I’m trying to keep up with this Instagram stuff, it’s hard work! It’s like a double job, I don’t know how you guys do it!” Vera said.
And if she could switch closets with any fashion icon for a day, who would that be? For a classic style Vera picked former First Lady of the United States, Jackie Onassis. She described it as very classy with a lot of pearls and straight cuts. But when it comes to embracing her inner party queen, she chose her daughter Rita Ora, who always loves going crazy with her fashion. Vera admitted sneaking in her closet before to try on and borrow some clothes or as Rita would say “shopping in my cupboard”. As you can see, their dynamic is fashionably fun.
Getting to know Vera and learning a lot about mental health and how to be a better advocate for our generation, I have not only witnessed a strong woman being so passionate about her job. I have seen a great survivor paying it forward to assure a much safer tomorrow for all of us. Not only is Vera extremely good at her job and advocacy, she is the most humble and kindest woman when you meet her in person. She has taught me a lot and helped me see how important it is to be aware of the struggles you might have and to not lose contact with friends and family when times are tough on you. And with the rise of social media, you have to find a balance between being online and being present in your real life. Let’s prepare ourselves for real change this year, because it is important to be mentally well to be able to continue your life to finally reach the full happiness we have been seeking.
ROARA Magazine 