For people struggling with a mental health concern, it becomes an additional challenge to deconstruct or resist the detrimental labeling that society and individuals in society associate with their struggles. That is to say, not only do people have their personal and often times interpersonal struggle related to mental health (or illness), but they also have to process the oppression that comes with mental health stigmas. However a person responds to this stigma varies individually, but the challenge of being seen as "mentally ill" or "abnormal" can be more damaging to one's mental wellness than their actual mental health concern.
So, how do we address the stigma? Speaking out has been along time approach, that I continue to advocate (of course picking and choosing one's battles and being intentional about taking care of oneself in this process). Then, there's the idea of deconstructing the myth or normality. This addresses the root causes in society which contribute to mental health stigmatization. A quotation by Joe Ancis that I often think of is, "the only normal people are the ones you don't know very well." I have found this to be true time and time again. So many people struggle privately, believing that their emotional distress is unique to them and that something is truly wrong with them. As a society, we do not know what to do with "negative" emotions and so when one experiences them, one feels ashamed rather than acknowledging the reality of the human condition and our incredible ability to feel.
Addressing mental health stigmas is an ongoing conversation, and I don't have simple answers. I hope this helps create dialogue and I welcome feedback. I can be reached at info @ lindahsieh.com if you want to contact me privately. Otherwise feel free to respond on this blog.
Be well,
Linda
