The Stigma of Mental Illness

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Mental Illness affects millions of people around the world. Despite the fact that it does affect so many people, those with mental illness are still stigmatized. They are known as "psychos," "monsters," etc. Those that do not have mental illness walk on egg shells around the mentally ill, so the mentally ill person doesn't "lash out" or "hurt" them. These stigmas hurt me at a personal level, because I have family members who suffer from mental illness. I also had a very tough upbringing, spending my teen years severely depressed, and I even contemplated suicide. I spent many years in counseling.
When I was younger, I was the odd child in my school. Because of that, I never fit in, and usually kept to myself. I was called many names in school. "Psycho," "Stupid," and a few others that I cannot write on here because the words are highly inappropriate, but, I'm sure you all get the picture.
Now that I'm older, and have sought help, I am a happier person. Those who suffer mental illness cannot just break out of it. They will always have the illness, but, will find ways to still live a relatively normal life. Taking things day by day usually keeps people from becoming overwhelmed.
People with mental illness, and are not on medication, have zero control over their thoughts and behaviors. The disease/illness takes over like a parasite, and like a leech, sucks the life out of you. The person is helpless. So, any thoughts or attempts of suicide, the person has no control over. Once someone is on medication and in therapy, the mental illness does not have as much of a hold on you anymore. The person is able to live, and enjoy a happier life.
This is why it is not good to judge someone with a mental illness. You have to put yourself in their shoes, and understand that they have no control over their actions or thoughts. In order to reach someone with a mental illness, you need to get down to their level, and connect with them. All they need is someone to connect with and tell them that everything is going to be alright.
Also, if you suspect that you might be dealing with mental illness, please talk to someone. You may not believe it right now, but, there ARE people out there that do care, have been there, and will be there for you. Hope is not lost. When the disease takes over, you become irrational and impulsive. You don't want to get to the point where you are a danger to yourself and to others.

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(photo courtesy of: www.healthyplace.com/blogs/recoveringfrommentalillness/files/2012/10/Mental-Disorders.jpg)

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