Footnote

Happiness isn’t a choice.

Happiness is the skill to recognize you have the ability to make a choice in responding to your unique circumstances and experiences. Money doesn’t and can’t buy the skill of happiness. “Having everything” has nothing to do with being able to recognize and make decisions that make us happier.

Sometimes we loose the ability to see that choices exist. Or we can’t see a choice where feeling good might even a possibility. Mental health professionals help us find choices we wouldn’t be able to identify on our own. When we literally can’t see clearly, we go to an optometrist. When we figuratively can’t see, we need to ask for the same level of care and support.

Asking for mental health care is easier said than done. If you’re not sure how to find professional help, ask a trusted family member or friend to work with you. Navigating our health care system, especially for mental health care, isn’t a straightforward as it should be. And, if you feel there is no one to call, the National Suicide Hot Line is available 24 hours a day: 1-800-273-8255.

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