“There’s not really a stigma around mental illness.”

These are some of the many things I’ve heard people say when I explain that I’m really passionate about being a mental illness advocate. People say that, while the stigma may have existed in the past, there’s really no need for advocacy in today’s society. However, I would argue that there are still many people who are ignorant about mental illness and contribute to the (still existing) stigma around mental illness.

This article was born when I saw ignorant comments show up on my Facebook newsfeed. I did a little bit of digging on Facebook, Yahoo and Buzzfeed, and saw even more comments that, as an individual with a mental illness, made me feel horrible and sad, but I felt like I needed to expose how some people still think about mental illness.

(Note: all names and photos have been blocked out.)

Strong language has been blocked out, and trigger warning for slurs about mental illness.

1.

These two comments were left on a Yahoo article about the lady who posted a selfie after a panic attack. The top comment needs no explanation. The second is just wrong because of the fact that they claim that only "week" minded people have panic attacks. 6 million people in America alone have panic disorder, and even more than that will have a panic attack at least once in their life.

2.

From the same article. It may have been a joke, but not in good humor.

3.

This one is just an overview of the stigma in general. Mental Illness may not show the same physical symptoms as physical illness, but that doesn't mean it doesn't exist or that it's made up, and barriers such as these can prevent people who need help from getting it.

4.

First off, depression is a mental illness. And no, not everyone has dealt with it at some point. It seems this person is mistaking depression for sadness. Having felt both depression and sadness, I can tell you that depression is more of an emptiness. There are more suicidal thoughts involved. And many times with depression, you can't even cry. Depression is also defined by sadness that disrupts your life for a period of 6+ months.

5.

I think I understand what the person was going through here, but saying that the 'vast majority' of people with mental illness do not want to help themselves seems a bit stigmatizing.

6.

Self-harm isn't really a good topic for joking, and implying that a whole group of people relate to it implies something negative about self-harm. This comment just rubbed me the wrong way.

7.

I don't think it's ridiculous to ask (not demand) that people be educated about mental illnesses, especially since one in four people will develop one at some point over their lifespan and for me, personally, I've found that speaking out about it can really help.

8.

The main thing wrong with this comment is the "ranking" of mental illnesses. Dementia (which is not even a mental illness, more of a neurological disorder), schizophrenia and bipolar are all devastating diseases, but that doesn't mean that they're more "important" than depression. Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide and, considering the high suicide rates, something that deserves more attention.

9.

No explanation necessary.

10.

The fact that this person assumes that most people with mental illnesses are dangers to society is hurtful.

11.

This person goes so far as to say that they don't have "sympathy" for people with panic attacks. This would be disgusting if said about any other illness, but somehow it's okay when talking about mental illness.

12.

On another article about the same woman who posted the panic attack photos, someone left this comment, calling the woman "weak."

13.

On the same article, this person suggested a "frontal lobotomy", a procedure that left many - including Rosemary Kennedy - disabled for life.

14.

This was posted on an article about a celebrity with depression.

15.

Right, just like you can make the flu better, not through prescription pills, but through yourself. Also, that encouragement to kill yourself near the end hurts my heart. Please, please seek help if you feel that way.

16.

17.

Actually, everyone I've met with a mental illness is pretty tough.

18.

For me, personally, writing about it helps me to deal with it myself, and also to spread awareness. But maybe others would share about it for support. And I don't see why it's such a bad thing to 'look for attention' anyway. People with depression need social support.

19.

As someone in the comments said, "Broken ankle? Try walking."

20.

I understand that exposure therapy is a useful therapeutic method, but it doesn't always work. I've had social anxiety disorder for years now. I still go out and talk to people. My anxiety is still there. Weird.

21.

Exercise can help mental illness, but it's not a "cure."

22

Where do these facts come from?

23.

Really? No reason at all?

24.

It usually makes mine worse, actually, but thanks...

And then there's my favorite, the GOAT:

25.

As many people said:

"Don't be deaf! Put on your headphones. Listen to some music."

If only it was that easy.

I hope this article has made you think a little bit. The stigma is definitely not dead, and we still have a long way to go. Please, if you know someone who's struggling, send them a quick message of encouragement. These are examples of the wrong way to talk about mental illness, but giving love, support and encouragement are definitely the right ways.