It is human nature to fear what we don't understand. As such, mental illness is feared by many people and, unfortunately, still carries a stigma (a stigma is defined as a mark or sign of disgrace). Because of this stigma, many people hesitate to get help for a mental health problem for fear of being looked down upon. It is unfortunate that this happens because effective treatment exists for almost all mental illnesses. Worse, the stigma experienced by people with a mental illness can be more destructive then the illness itself.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Hello and Welcome
Mental illnesses can take many forms, just as physical illnesses do. Mental illnesses are still feared and misunderstood by many people, but the fear will disappear as people learn about them.
It is human nature to fear what we don't understand. As such, mental illness is feared by many people and, unfortunately, still carries a stigma (a stigma is defined as a mark or sign of disgrace). Because of this stigma, many people hesitate to get help for a mental health problem for fear of being looked down upon. It is unfortunate that this happens because effective treatment exists for almost all mental illnesses. Worse, the stigma experienced by people with a mental illness can be more destructive then the illness itself.
It is human nature to fear what we don't understand. As such, mental illness is feared by many people and, unfortunately, still carries a stigma (a stigma is defined as a mark or sign of disgrace). Because of this stigma, many people hesitate to get help for a mental health problem for fear of being looked down upon. It is unfortunate that this happens because effective treatment exists for almost all mental illnesses. Worse, the stigma experienced by people with a mental illness can be more destructive then the illness itself.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
1 comment:
I have been an outpatient with the ROH for quite some time. I have suffered with mental illness my entire life - 52 years. I have been mis-diagnosed and incorrectly treated however I kept breaking through barriers to receive the help I knew I needed even though I didn’t know what I needed. With the assistance of the ROH and a lot of stick-to-it-ness by myself…I can now say…that I feel the best I have ever felt. Dec 23, 2007 was a turning point for me…..the first day I felt “normal”…whatever normal is!!! Normal is a very subjective word you know.
It’s been a very long road for me. Along the journey, I have lost numerous friends due to their ignorance of mental health. It is an invisible disease…and even though I’m well groomed with good manners….I would often act weird and be given a crude look. I don’t look sick!!! Hah….little did they know…..I’m more “normal” then they are I can tell ya!!!! I’ve had to walk the fine line between intelligence and craziness while introducing myself to my inner soul. Wow….am I ever glad I did.
If I had been given a choice between living with mental illness or not, I would still choose the journey I’ve been given. With my journey I have learned compassion, empathy, the meaning of life…the significance of friends, appreciation for each day, the value of my spirit and the ability to develop a good wholesome dose of laughter. I laugh a lot now. I laugh at myself and at the world. My illness doesn’t define who I am…but rather it is a part of who I am. Big difference. I’ve learned to accept and thus live with mental health and I’m a much better person because of it. Pity the people who didn’t stay around in my life as friends. They are missing out on the riches I have to offer to so many.
I’m an artist now…where that talent came from…who knows! The right side of the brain has taken over…and wow…what a ride!
I’m having the time of my life now… living with mental illness! Every day is a new awakening. I doubt my illness will get up and walk away….so I’ve chosen to walk with it!!!!
I encourage you to seek treatment, follow the program made for you and by all means share your mental illness with your loved ones and your friends, …….educate them and never ever be ashamed. I’m not saying your journey will be easy….no way….but it sure is worth it!!!! We, with mental illness are special characters and we have much to give and share with the “crazies” out there. Remember we’re the ones that are “normal“…...’cause we’re the ones with a firm grip on reality.
Post a Comment