Mental Illnesses are much more than just "illnesses." And society today needs to understand that. Let me start with this, happiness should not be a shield or mask to hide behind, it should be a genuine feeling that everyone deserves to experience. For those who don't know much about it or believe in the stigma that comes with mental illness, this article will share a little bit with you. The odd's that someone around you is suffering from some form of mental illness are pretty high and has experienced some form of stigma in their lifetime. Stigma is a mark of disgrace that sets a person apart. When a person is labeled by their illness they are seen as part of a stereotyped group. Negative attitudes create prejudice which leads to negative actions and discrimination. I am one of those people who has suffered from severe stigma after being open about my mental illness. News flash, just because depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or any other mental illness isn't necessarily visible to the outsider's eye simply does not make it unreal.
I've suffered from depression pretty much my whole life but once you get the chance to know me, I'm extremely down to earth, funny and super loving. If you look at me you most likely won't be able to tell that I suffer from depression because I come off as a happy person who's just loving life. I live with it every single day and have ever since I can remember. The number of times I have been called "crazy, psycho, or insane" because I have depression are countless and I am so ashamed to say I have personally been victimized by mental health stigma. Depression is something a large amount of this population suffers from and many function with it every single day. It's safe to say that many people suffering from mental illnesses are capable of embracing their illness and are proud to say it's a part of who they are; however, some people are not able to do that and that is where the stigma found in today's society needs to change. We need to help those around us who are not as capable of dealing with it.
Anyone fighting another illness is considered "a fighter, or strong" for overcoming their illness so why is it that society degrades those who overcome mental illness? Anyone living with a mental illness is strong because they have to be. When I think about it I've been told by maybe a few people that I am strong for fighting through my depression. Someone suffering from it first hand can tell you it's one heck of a fight overcoming it, even getting out of bed some days is a challenge. Just because you can't see one's depression doesn't mean it isn't there or existent.
Saying mental illness isn't a real "illness" is simply unfair and untrue. We as a society have the power to overcome this stigma. Having a mental illness does not make one "crazy, psycho or insane" but strong for fighting through it just like every other illness. We need to create an environment for those suffering from any form of mental illness where they can feel safe to open up about it and feel confident in noticing their illness. Next time you come across someone who is open about their mental illness or even shy about it, let them know that they are strong and that they are a fighter for living and coping with it every day. Telling them that will make a difference in the way they view themselves and encourage them to continue their fight. I, myself have been a bit terrified to say I suffer from depression because of the reactions I may get; but, having depression does not in any way make me lesser of a person. I am still my fun, loving, happy self and I occasionally hit a bump in the road just like everyone else.
As a society, we have the power to include everyone around us and rid the stigma that follows anyone having a mental illness. I am proud of who I am, but I want to help those who feel they can't be. Becuase no matter what illness you have, it doesn't define you, rather it contributes to the unique, wonderful person you were made out to be.
