You see it everywhere. Media, celebrities, TV shows, movies, models, etc. glamorizing mental illness. I can't go on Tumblr without seeing black and white photos of a person self-harming themselves that are made to look artistic and appealing. You see the quizzes and articles on Facebook and other social media sites that help determine which mental illness might fit you the best. This trend is dangerous. I'm sure it started out as a way to raise awareness and educate people about these illnesses that are affecting millions of people, but somewhere we got confused. Yes, it's de-stigmatizing mental illness, but it's doing so in a way that It's making it seem cool, hip, and even desirable.

It's something that is happening. It's something that needs to be talked about.

I have struggled with anxiety and depression since I was a freshman in high school. I used to be ashamed of myself. I didn't like talking to anyone about what I was struggling with because I was embarrassed and felt like it made be different from everyone else - and not in a good way. It took some time but I came to terms with the fact that my mental disorders did not define me or own me. But that was a long, intense, and difficult journey that I am still struggling to control to this day. That is why I, along with many others, find frustration in this trend toward making our mental illnesses seem casual and cute.

There is nothing cute or mysterious or poetic or beautiful or charming about mental illnesses.

Mental illness is becoming a lighter topic to discuss when it shouldn't be treated as such. People are bothered when someone makes comments like "Yeah, I have to have my pens and pencils organized and straight, I'm totally OCD like that." or "I'm just a little depressed/bipolar feeling today."

I do not wish the pain and suffering of my disorder on anyone. Because it's not beautiful and it shouldn't be treated like it's beautiful. Mental illness should be treated as it is - an awful, painful, intense disease that consumes every fiber of your being.

So let's educate ourselves and others about the dangers of mental illnesses and continue to de-stigmatize them without glorifying them.

“Anyone who has actually been that sad can tell you that there’s nothing beautiful or literary or mysterious about depression”— Author Jasmine Warga