Stigma has just become a “fancy” word for believing negative ideas about something and then discriminating against people for being or having a part of that idea. So goes the stigma of mental illness. Many people believe that this illness is untreatable and that it renders those afflicted in a way that makes them unproductive and unvaluable to society. But, for those who have mental illness, live with someone with mental illness, or work in the mental health field, we know how untrue those beliefs are, and we are doing our best to change negative ideas.
Everyday pro-mental health organizations share the message that mental illness is treatable and manageable. Those behind this movement try our best to find the strengths that each and every person has in spite of any illness with which they are labeled. In fact, the strengths a person has can be in direct correlation with the illness — as it has developed in order to compensate for the brain not functioning as needed. And to prove it, think of all of the talented people in our history who are considered the “greats” in the arts or intellectual field. The fact that they also have a diagnosis of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or any other disorder means they embraced their strengths and were appreciated for them despite the illness.
So how do we unite to stop stigma? It starts with YOU. Yes, you, reading this right now! Changing the social idea about mental illness is an individual choice that belongs to everyone. However, when you show your support, and no fear of mental illness, it creates a chain reaction. All it takes is one person telling a story of their struggle with anxiety, or their child’s story of depression, and on, and on. It’s amazing how contagious it can be and I have seen it in action. YOU are the bridge to unite the work being done all over the world. Can I count on you to help?
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