Have you ever felt guilty for having a mental illness? Have you ever felt that it was a weakness that made you less than? I have. And I worked hard to keep it a secret for as long as I could. Sadly, guilt and shame are two paralyzing feelings that are still widespread, and I can only imagine all the people who continue to suffer privately because they are too ashamed to ask for help.
For me, fighting the stigma was a battle of its own. It’s one of the reasons I became an advocate for people with mental health issues, so I could provide support from a perspective of someone who has experienced the pain and isolation firsthand.
The tragic irony about this problem is that it keeps people “in the closet” about their pain. It perpetuates the isolation that goes along with the disease. It’s seen as a blemish on our (albeit false) sense of perfection by which we have defined ourselves. I have news for you: you’re not perfect. Neither am I. In fact, I’m about as damaged and flawed as they come, but I’ve learned to be ok with my imperfect self and have worked very hard to learn how to navigate the turbulent waters that still rock my emotional boat.
The prejudices and attitudes focus around the idea that an act of will can improve mental health if one tries hard enough. When I first fell into deep depression many years ago, going to therapy was something you kept to yourself. It was something to be embarrassed about, a sign of weakness (at least that was the message I got growing up), and what shocks me is that this false belief still exists today, despite information about the realities of mental illness being widely known.
While many accept the realities of living with a mental disorder, these stigmas remain and prevent too many people from finding the right treatment plans. This is why this social stigma is extremely dangerous, because it absolutely affects those who need help more than anything else, and may even prevent them from seeking the resources that are readily available to begin their own healing journeys in the first place.
Those with mental illness already have an uphill battle and as we progress as a society, we should make a note to help those who are seeking it. Here are some quick tips if you’re wondering how you can be a resource to someone who is struggling:
The uneasiness felt by those who don’t fully understand mental illness, or the pain expressed by someone they know, is slowly improving as more people are being educated about what goes on in the mind of one who is suffering. However, it is important now more than ever to encourage others to understand that they are not alone and that resources are available. If you are seeking resources for yourself or for a friend, please know they are accessible here (see my blog from May 2nd, “The Sinuous Journey of Healing”). There are many groups, organizations and clubs that promote mental health awareness and community involvement. If you are suffering, don’t hesitate to reach out, seek help and be proud that you want to improve your emotional health. It’s been said before, but mental illness is not something to be ashamed of. Together, we can eliminate the stigma and improve the lives of many who want their suffering and pain to end but may not know where to turn to get help.
Image by Grae Dickason from Pixabay