Most people do not know that they are dysfunctional. The reality is we are all uniquely and wonderfully made with our own quirks and defense mechanisms. The very thinking styles, behavioral and instinctual responses that are used for safety all too often keep us stuck in patterns that impact our quality of life. We all face issues related to mental health and emotional wellness. In the U.S., anxiety is the most common mental illness experienced by adults. Eighteen percent of the population is diagnosed with an anxiety disorder each year and only 36.9 percent of those diagnosed receive treatment. It takes a high level of courage to reach out for help in a world that is quick to cast judgment on those who need support. Everyone could benefit from therapy and life coaching. It is completely normal to struggle with maintaining a healthy balance with all the roles and responsibilities in our lives. It’s normal to get into ruts in our marriages. We all have blind spots that get in the way of intimacy and connection. We all fear losing connection with others or fear being seen as we are. All are a part of the human experience. Unfortunately, these struggles and accompanying parts of ourselves calling out for attention tend to get shoved into the shadows of our consciousness. We don’t address them or try to understand them until they start creating disruption to the point they can no longer be ignored. It’s easier to blame or point at others’ struggles than it is to “take the log out of our own eye” and see our own dysfunctional selves. Conflict, grief, stress, addiction, depression, anxiety, and trauma all provide opportunities to learn about ourselves and change patterns that are no longer serving us. Successful struggle requires growth. Just like one’s physical health depends upon knowing about our body, developing healthy habits and, at times, seeking professional intervention; mental health also requires knowledge of ourselves, developing necessary healthy habits, and professional intervention at times. Maintenance and practice of healthy choices in both areas can decrease the risk of major illness.