Stand Up to Stigma

When I was growing up we didn't discuss the details of any mental issues in our family; however, I was once told that a neighbor named Nerva (pronounced Nervie) had a nervous breakdown. There was no connection between her name and the diagnosis! I didn't know what a nervous breakdown was, but it sounded ominous and it was implied that she was a weak person.

I believe education and transparency are the best ways to stand up to stigma. In 2016 I decided to start sharing my mental illness story. Some friends and family members tried to dissuade me. They didn't want me to become vulnerable or to embarrass myself (or them). So I'm not using my full name or a revealing photo. I don't feel good about that. I believe I am not "standing up to stigma." But I'm putting my family and friends first out of love and respect.

References

Mental Health & Stigma

Mental health: Overcoming the stigma of mental illness

Addressing the Stigma that Surrounds Addiction

4 Common Stigmas Associated With Mental Illness That Need To End

Criminalization of Mental Illness

Stigma Interferes With Mental Health Treatment for Kids