In Bangladesh, talking about mental health is often seen as shameful, weak, or unnecessary — not because people don’t struggle, but because cultural norms have taught us to stay silent. Mental health is still misunderstood by many as something “imaginary,” a personal failure, or something that should be solved with willpower or prayer alone. This silence is rooted in stigma, lack of education, and fear of judgment from relatives, neighbours, or even employers.

As a result, people hide their emotions, avoid seeking help, or label real conditions like depression, anxiety, or ADHD as “drama” or “bad character.” In families, young people often grow up being told not to “overthink” or “make a scene,” while parents may feel guilty or helpless for not understanding what their child is going through.

Breaking this silence starts with education, compassion, and safe spaces to talk — especially in a way that makes sense within our language and culture. Mental health is real, and it’s time we treat it with the same respect and care we give to physical health.

Cultural Myths & Common Misconceptions.

In many South Asian communities, including Bangladesh, mental health is surrounded by harmful myths and misunderstandings. One common myth is that mental illness only happens to “weak” or “spoiled” people, or that it’s a punishment from God or a result of not being “grateful enough.” Others believe that conditions like depression or anxiety are just “phases,” and that a strong person can simply “get over it” with enough willpower or prayer.

There’s also the idea that talking about emotions means seeking attention, or that children can’t have mental health issues — only adults under stress do. ADHD is often dismissed as a lack of discipline, and therapy is seen as something for “crazy” or “unstable” people, rather than a healthy form of support.

These myths create silence, shame, and deep misunderstandings within families and communities. Challenging them doesn’t mean rejecting culture or religion — it means updating our understanding to include compassion, science, and real stories from people we know and love. Mental health is not a myth. Ignoring it is.

Breaking the Cycle of Silence.

Breaking the cycle of silence around mental health starts with small, brave conversations. In many families and communities, we’re taught to keep emotions inside, avoid shame, and never speak about things like anxiety, depression, or trauma. But silence only makes things worse — it keeps people suffering alone, feeling broken or “wrong” for what they’re going through.

To break the cycle, we have to create spaces where it’s okay to not be okay. That might mean checking in with a friend, listening without judgment, sharing your own experiences, or challenging a harmful comment gently and respectfully. It also means unlearning old beliefs and being open to education, especially for parents, teachers, and leaders.

We don’t have to start with perfect words — we just have to start. Each time we talk openly about mental health, we make it safer for someone else to do the same. That’s how change begins: one honest voice at a time.

Finding your voice. 

Finding your voice means learning to express what you’re feeling — even when it feels messy, confusing, or uncomfortable. In cultures where emotions are often silenced or dismissed, speaking up about your mental health can feel scary or even wrong. But your feelings are valid, and your experiences deserve to be heard.

Your voice doesn’t have to be loud or perfect. It could be writing in a journal, confiding in a trusted friend, speaking up in therapy, or simply saying, “I’m not okay today.” It’s about recognising that your mental health matters — and that you have the right to name what’s happening inside you.

When you find your voice, you give yourself permission to take up space. And you might also help someone else realise they’re not alone. Healing begins when we stop hiding — and start speaking with honesty, courage, and compassion for ourselves.

Creating Safe Spaces for Dialogue. 

Creating safe spaces for dialogue means making room for honest conversations about mental health — without fear, shame, or judgment. In a safe space, people can express their emotions, share personal struggles, ask questions, or simply feel heard. It’s not about having all the answers — it’s about listening with empathy and letting people be real.

To create a safe space, you need to lead with respect, patience, and openness. That means avoiding gossip, dismissive comments, or forced advice. It also means respecting boundaries and confidentiality. Whether it’s at home, in school, or online, a safe space is built when people feel emotionally accepted just as they are.

These spaces don’t have to be formal — they can be one-on-one conversations, group discussions, or even digital platforms like 2MoreThings. When people feel safe to speak, healing begins. And the more we make space for these conversations, the more we break the silence around mental health in our communities.

Tips for Starting Difficult Conversations. 

Starting a conversation about mental health — especially in families or communities where it’s often avoided — can feel intimidating. But with care and intention, you can open up space for meaningful dialogue.

Here are some tips:

1. Start small and gentle – Begin with a simple check-in like, “Can I talk to you about something I’ve been feeling?” or “I’ve been thinking a lot about mental health lately.”

2. Pick the right moment – Choose a calm, private time when the other person is more likely to listen without distractions or stress.

3. Use “I” statements – Say things like “I’ve been feeling low lately” or “I find it hard to focus” rather than making it sound like blame or confrontation.

4. Be honest, not dramatic – Speak clearly and truthfully, but without overwhelming the listener with too many details at once.

5. Be ready for resistance – Some people may react with discomfort, denial, or dismissal — don’t take it personally. Let them process.

6. Suggest next steps, not pressure – You can say, “Would you be open to learning more about this together?” or “Would you be willing to read something I found helpful?”

7. End with care – Reassure them by saying, “I just wanted to share this because I trust you” or “Thank you for listening.”

Difficult conversations take courage — but they’re often the first step toward understanding, support, and healing.