One of the most unfortunate struggles for those of us that suffer from depression and other mental illness is the way that the disease is perceived in society. Often, people are ignorant and uneducated about the facts of mental illness. We've probably all at one point heard something along these lines from ignorant, albeit well-meaning, peers:
- "But WHY are you depressed? Your life isn't even bad!"
- "Well why don't you just stop being sad, and start being happy?"
- "You're not depressed, you're just lazy."
- "How come you're getting anxious? There's nothing to be afraid of!"
It's sad that people who suffer from mental illness seem to be condemned for their disease in a way that a cancer patient or mentally handicapped person never would, but it is the reality. Did you know that 1 in 5 Americans suffer from mental illness? Too many of them suffer in silence because they are afraid or ashamed of depression and anxiety. Nobody should feel ashamed for battling depression, we are warriors and we should stand proud.
By being open, honest, and optimistic about our diagnosis and treatment, we are helping to end the stigma. By admitting when we are struggling, reaching out for help when we need it, and accepting that not every day will be an easy one, we are helping to end the stigma. By educating ourselves and our loved ones about mental illness, we will end the stigma.
What are some examples of ignorance that you've been faced with? What are some ways in which you may have contributed to the stigma? What can we do as victims of depression to #ENDTHESTIGMA today?
SMILES,
SJ
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