The image above is currently at the top of my list of Things That Make My Blood Boil.
As you may have heard, a “Big Brother” contestant spewed forth a bunch of vile nonsense about depression recently on Twitter. It’s sad to see stigma promoted through the platform of fame, reinforcing people’s misconceptions. However, a lot of people stood up for mental health awareness in response, which was encouraging!
What is also sad is how many people in our everyday lives still think exactly what he said, people who don’t support our healing and recovery, who don’t understand and aren’t willing to learn. It’s honestly scary to realize how commonplace and accepted and normalized mental health discrimination is. I’ve met people who thought it was okay to harass, invalidate, isolate, and emotionally abuse others if they were mentally ill. This is NOT okay.
To those who don’t understand mental illness:
Don’t be like that guy. You can be part of the solution! When you find something you don’t understand, humility and willingness to listen and learn are a far better response than arrogance and ignorance. Especially when it comes to mental health–there is so much stigma already.
Ashes Dancing 