Stigma & Mental Illness
Albeit shameful and ignorant that it is almost 2012, and many of us are still confronted with biases. judgements and disparate treatment, I encourage all to hold your head up high. I know what it's like to be looked at differently because of a label, diagnosis or even someones inability to look deeper than the surface.
I often ask myself why some folks behave the way they behave and perhaps I will never find an honest answer. I hypothesize that perhaps there is something in me that may remind someone of themselves or that perhaps that, until recently, I had always functioned so well that those with certain belief systems or stereo-types feel that they are experts on who I am.
I recently posted on ECT and the benefits for me as an individual. Talk therapy is also important because it allows us to process, in a safe and healthy forum, the things that people have said or done to us. I recall when I first requested FMLA at work and a person made the comment "If you cannot report to work maybe you should not work". I was requesting intermittent leave because the stigma and disparate treatment was taking it's toll and this so called healthy individual was so insensitive.
I know we have come a long way but we still have a long way to go. Stigma is one reason some don't admit that something ails them nor seek help. We all have to use our voices, our stories, our expertise (on who were are) and continue to raise awareness about the importance of treating others the way in which one would like to be treated, not selective respect and equality but across the board.
Being good to one another should not be based on pre-conceived notions that certain populations are more worthy than others. We are valuable individuals with strengths, creativity, feelings and we contribute to society wholeheartedly and should always be viewed and treated as such!
Have you been treated differently lately? How did you deal with it?
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Mental Health Support Group.
Hello there. I had an ECT treatment early Monday morning, and I'm afraid that they kind of kick my but. Every time I get up and start moving around, the headache gets worse as does the dizziness. I just ran out of pain medication, but my doctor is very stingy as she doesn't want me to get hooked. I'm so glad your leg is improving. I say a prayer for you each day. I hope that's okay and not too creepy for you. Care and Prayers! Lisa4
Hi Sorry to hear that you have had such a rough time with your ECT hopefully the headaches and dizzinness will subside for you soon. I thank you for your prayers and for your caring. Was wondering if I could add you to my friends list, so I could email you at times. By the way it takes alot to make me feel creepy. Take care God Bless. Piglit.
Hi Power
Thank you for reading my post and identifying. I hope all is well with you.
Rox
Hi
The headaches are horrible but worth it and they do subside. Hang in there as long as you can because the treatment can be amazing.
Sincerely Rox
Sure, I would be honored to be added to you friends list. My doctor refilled my meds finally, so I am doing okay. I'm hanging in there day by day. I do get frustrated by how little I can do, but I'm working through. Care and Prayers-Lisa4
It's good to hear from you! I hope you are well. You're right, the treatments are worth it despite the side effects. I'll keep hanging. Take care! Lisa4
Hi So glad the the dr has organized some medication for you. Remember little fairy steps one at a time work much better than big giant steps. Things will get better just give it some time. Will add you too my list. God bless Piglit
Good for you Lisa. I told you just give it a few sessions and you will feel alive again.
You're in my thoughts ....
Rox
Hi lisa hope all is going well for you and your headaches are starting to subside. I put in a friend request but it hasn't come up as yet. If you could just check as nothing is coming up that I can add you to my list. Take care Piglit
The fear of stigma and discrimination often isolates and keeps people from getting the help they need ....