June is International Men’s Mental Health Month. Usually, you will see posts telling men to man up or stay strong. But honestly? I am tired of that. I am a man who has gone through brain surgery for epilepsy, and I deal with anxiety and depression every single day. I think it is time to talk about what that is really like.
When I was diagnosed with epilepsy, everything changed. Suddenly, I was not just Rahul. I was the guy with the condition. People started treating me differently, sometimes with pity, sometimes with fear, and a lot of times, they just did not know what to say, so they said nothing at all.
Then came the anxiety and the depression. Honestly, that was the hardest part. As a guy, you are taught to just push through the pain. But how do you push through a brain that feels like it is working against you? For a long time, I tried to hide it. I thought if I just worked harder and kept my head down, nobody would notice my weakness.
But here is the truth I have learned: It is not a weakness.
It took me a long time to get here, but I have realized that my journey, the surgeries, the medication, the panic attacks, the bad days, is just a part of who I am. It is what makes me unique. Sure, it makes life harder than it is for most people, but it has also made me tougher than I ever thought possible.
I am sharing this because I know I am not the only one. There are other guys out there sitting in the dark, feeling like they are broken or that they are less than because they need help.
I want to say this clearly:
1. Epilepsy does not make you less of a man. It is just something you deal with.
2. Needing therapy or medication for your mental health is not a failure. It is the smartest thing you can do for yourself.
3. You do not have to carry it all by yourself.
I do not have all the answers. Some days I still struggle. But I am choosing to be open about it. I am not going to hide anymore. If you are reading this and you are struggling, please know that you are not alone. You are just a human being managing a tough situation. Just keep going, one day at a time.
Disclaimer:
This article is based entirely on my personal experiences and opinions. It is not intended to provide medical, psychological, or professional advice. Every person's experience with epilepsy, mental health, and life circumstances is different. Readers should consult qualified healthcare professionals for diagnosis, treatment, or advice related to their own situation.
About the Author:
I am Rahul Karandikar, just a regular guy sharing my personal experiences with epilepsy and mental health. By talking openly about these challenges, I hope to help break the stigma and encourage more honest conversations.
I also believe that it is okay to speak up rather than hold everything inside simply because you are a man. Fear of stigma, fear of judgment, or worrying about what society may think can sometimes stop people from seeking support when they need it most. While every person's journey is different, I hope my experiences remind others that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Sometimes, talking to someone you trust or seeking professional support can be an important step toward better wellbeing and a better quality of life.
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