Sometimes I feel like I have nothing new to contribute to the subject of mental illness. In this era of highly publicized shootings, it seems to pop up quite a bit of the time, but what do people really know about mental health?
I could throw in facts and figures, but in general, mental health issues affect all of us in some way. A lot of mental health problems can be found in our prisons and in those with substance abuse disorders. A lot of homeless people struggle as well. Unfortunately, the stigma of mental illness is still alive and well today even though there seems to be more conversation around it.
I feel like I have to add to the discussion on mental health for a couple of reasons. First, the more we talk about it the more people (hopefully) learn, and that can help to ease the stigma. I personally feel that a lot of the stigma comes from a fear of not knowing. My additional hope is that people begin to think of mental illness like a physical illness, treating it like something similar to cancer or another chronic physical condition. Mental illness is not “all in your head”, it is a real disease with potentially life or death consequences.
I also can add personal stories. I have lost two cousins and my dad to suicide. Depression and/or substance abuse contributed to these losses. I share this not because I want sympathy. I share it because I want people to know that it can happen to you or someone you love or care about. The story that I share unfortunately happens every day, and we need to work together to stop its spread and progression.
So, how about you? How are you affected by mental illness? Can you learn more about it? Can you share your knowledge and story with others? I hope you will join me in the conversation to end the stigma of mental illness and work towards better treatment and prevention for all.