I'm sorry to hear that you're facing such a challenging situation. It can be difficult when your family's beliefs and attitudes about mental illness don't align with your experiences. It's essential to remember that your mental illness is valid, and seeking understanding and support from your loved ones is entirely reasonable.
Here are some steps you can consider taking to communicate with your family and ask for their patience and support:
Choose the Right Time and Setting: Find a quiet and comfortable space where you can have an uninterrupted conversation with your family members. Avoid discussing the topic during tense or emotional moments.
Express Your Feelings: Share openly and honestly about how their comments and lack of understanding are affecting you emotionally. Be vulnerable and communicate how their criticism triggers your panic attacks.
Educate Them about Mental Illness: Many people lack awareness and knowledge about mental health conditions. Offer them educational resources or articles that explain the nature of your mental illness and how it affects you. This can help dispel misconceptions and foster empathy.
Share Your Journey: Let your family know about the steps you're taking to manage your mental health, such as therapy, coping strategies, or any other support you've sought. Explain that you're doing your best to improve and heal, but it may take time and patience.
Set Boundaries: Be clear about your needs for support and understanding. Let your family know what kind of comments or behaviors are triggering and ask them to refrain from making such remarks.
Be Empathetic: Try to understand their perspective and concerns while also explaining your own. Empathize with any fears or misconceptions they may have, and address them calmly and respectfully.
Seek Support from a Mediator: If you believe it would be helpful, consider involving a mental health professional or a counselor to facilitate the conversation and help your family understand the impact of their attitudes.
Focus on Mutual Respect: Remind your family that support and understanding are crucial to your well-being. Emphasize that you are not asking them to change their beliefs entirely, but rather to respect your experiences and feelings.
Offer Small Steps for Involvement: If your family is open to it, you can suggest small ways they can support you, such as attending a therapy session together or participating in educational workshops on mental health.
Be Patient: Changing long-held beliefs and attitudes can take time, so be patient with your family as they process this information. Keep the lines of communication open and be willing to address their concerns.
Remember that changing attitudes about mental health can be a gradual process, but advocating for yourself and seeking support from understanding friends, support groups, or mental health professionals can also be valuable during this time. Your mental health is essential, and it's okay to prioritize it and advocate for your well-being.