The list of topics that do need talking about in 2022 and beyond is just huge. Literally. So many topics go undiscussed when they shouldn’t. Topics that go undiscussed because they are seen as taboo or too awkward to talk about. There are topics that have an unwanted stigma attached to them thanks to some ignorant people in society who choose to ridicule the topic. Are people afraid to discuss some subjects because they’re afraid of what other people will think? Quite possibly.
I know that years ago, I would never discuss a topic like mental health or smear tests. I just felt that those sort of things was private and should not be talked about with others. Sometimes people want to keep it private. Nowadays, I’m happy to talk about stigmatised topics. It’s a great way for me to let people know that it’s more than ok to talk about that subject. Only if you feel confident enough to of course.
From previous experience, I have been afraid to talk about my mental health status, in total paralysed fear that I would be laughed at or scoffed at for being so open. Believe me, I no longer fear that ridicule. Because I know full well that there are other people in the same boat as myself.
What I have learnt in recent years as there’s nothing to be ashamed of when talking about things like my mental health. Smear tests are another huge example. When the actual flying f*ck did that become an awkward subject?! It’s a lifesaving test for women. It’s so vital for women to have their smear test when it’s due.
Talking about supposed sensitive or awkward topics can be inspirational for some. It can give them the push to talk about the subject with others. I know it is a little easier to talk about subjects so openly online (for some anyway) but it’s a whole kettle of fish talking about it publicly in person. This is something I am trying to promote. Not just talk online but talk in person too. The more we talk, the more stigmas fade away.
Here are some of the topics that need to be discussed more often (in no particular order):
1) Mental health
Trigger warning Hell yes. This has to be number one for me. From anxiety to eating disorders to depression, some of us will experience some effects of mental health. As I said earlier, I used to struggle to speak about my own mental health status. Some days, I keep it to myself and then I’ll talk when I’m ready. But I don’t mind being open about it, as I know that there’s someone out there experiencing something similar to what I’m feeling. There’s always someone out there who understands and can empathise with how I’m feeling. Please, if you are struggling, please reach out. Whether it’s someone professional or a close family member or friend, reach out. Don’t keep feelings to yourself, you’ll only end up hurting yourself mentally. If you’re struggling, get in touch with a charity such as The Samaritans, whose helplines are open 24/7.
2) Smear tests
Yes ladies, when you get the letter from your GP telling you that you’re due for your smear test, book the appointment. I remember when I went for my first smear test, I was nervous. As much as the first one was awkward, I knew it was well worth it to make sure everything “down there” was ok. Smear tests and women’s intimate health should not be a stigmatised topic. End of.
3) Periods
My first period was at aged 14. I’ve had about 180 periods (I think) since I started. Why is this topic still so sensitive for some? I know that when it’s my ‘time of the month’, I need some me-time as my hormones can go haywire for days. They’re not fun and it’s important to fit in some self-care during your menstrual cycle. Look after yourself and don’t be scared to admit that you need that bit of time for yourself.
4) Health anxiety
I know this should come under mental health, but I felt this needed to be talked about separately. In recent times, as we all know, we’ve been through an unbearable pandemic and life has been so up and down because of that. Sorry to touch on the subject that’s dominated our lives in the last couple of years! However, now with restrictions lifted and almost non-existent now, health anxiety has well and truly kicked in. It’s ok to admit if you’re feeling wary too. Don’t be afraid to admit that. Health anxiety should be talked about more than ever.
5) Financial matters
Oh goodness me, the cost of living has increased, hasn’t it? It’s quite scary and worrying how much everything is costing these days. I know that when I was in school, the topic of money, mortgages, saving money and anything relating to finance didn’t get taught in lessons. Which is quite sad and slightly frustrating. I don’t have a scooby how mortgages work and I’m almost 29. That’s worrying for me. I know I need to learn, which I will do I promise!
6) Body confidence & body hang-ups
Nobody is perfect. It’s important to talk about that, especially for girls that are growing up seeing so many things on social media. If you’re a teenager, here’s a lesson for you – social media is the BIGGEST highlight reel and some photos are photoshopped. We need to talk about how it is wrong for photos to be photoshopped and send out the wrong message to all of us. I have never photoshopped any photos of myself to make myself look better. Lightroom presets are different as it just enhances the brightness, contrast and temperature. But I’ve never used an app like Facetune, there’s just no need for it. Be confident in yourself, you’re beautiful as you are, even if you don’t see that within yourself – others will.
7) Abortion
The long and short of it is that women should be able to decide what they want to do with their bodies. Obviously, there are people out there who are going to disagree, unfortunately. What is it that Rachel says in Friends? – “No uterus, no opinion” It’s horrifically mind-blowing that it is illegal in some US states and other countries to have an abortion, it really sickens me.
8) Racism
A topic which should never go off the table. Racism still exists in 2022, in the twenty-first century and that is incredibly disheartening. People pretending that racism isn’t a thing are a huge part of the problem. Just because it’s not mentioned or discussed enough, it doesn’t mean it’s gone away. There is no room for racism in society – end of. Keep talking about it.
