Bring Change To Mind

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Over the last week or so, we've had these discussions regarding mental illnesses... and I think there are more than a few people around here that would benefit from some education. I saw a commercial for this website earlier tonight, and thought that it had some very valid points and some things that a lot of people may or may not know about some of the more prevalent mental illnesses. If you want to disagree, that's fine. If you want to flame me, that's fine too. But at the very least, go educate yourselves. I don't say this to be provocative, but I say it because there are a lot of us that deal with these stigmas on a daily basis, and it'd be nice if there could be a change in how people view those of us that, through no fault of our own, are stuck having to deal with these illnesses.

http://www.bringchange2mind.org/index.php

I strongly suggest starting with the section of the site labeled "Learn the facts", in fact... I'll post some of it.

One of the best ways you can help someone with mental illness is by understanding what it is – and what it isn’t. After all, myths about mental illnesses contribute to stigma, which often prevents those who are living with it from seeking help.

The fact is, a mental illness is a disorder of the brain – your body’s most important organ – And 1 in 6 adults suffers from brain-related illness including depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD and schizophrenia.

Like most diseases of the body, it has many causes – from genetics to other biological, environmental and social/cultural factors. And just as with most diseases, mental illnesses are no one’s fault. The unusual behaviors associated with some illnesses are symptoms of the disease – not the cause.

But most importantly, mental illnesses are treatable through medication and psychosocial therapies – allowing those who suffer from them the opportunity to lead full and productive lives.

I'm certain that this site won't change everyone's opinions on the subject, but if only one person realizes that we're not attention seekers, or trying to be "cool" by being different, then this site has been a success. Or maybe you're suffering from some of these symptoms and either don't realize it, or don't want to deal with it for fear of the stigmas involved. Whatever the case may be, I hope that at the very least this is informative.

Thanks everyone.

 

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[youtube]WUaXFlANojQ[/youtube]

 

[dkwrtw]

My brother is severely mentally ill, I love him but it's impossible to be comfortable in the house with him, any minor thing might set him off.

 

[HK]

I'd just like to make it clear that although I did start a discussion about people who act like a mental illness is cool and desirable, even when they don't really have one, I didn't mean to imply that all sufferers are attention seekers and a waste of time.

Obviously there are people who are genuinely unwell and need help. Mental illness is serious and just as life-threatening as a physical problem - but that doesn't mean there aren't people out there who play on the ambiguous nature of these illnesses to get attention for themselves. That's the sort of person I dislike. People who are genuinely ill - I sympathise with them.

 

[AstriaPorta]

There is some people need help and medicine is best..... also people that close to them need to know a little about their problem to help.. but there is many people that have some small problems that can be deal without medicine..

 

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There is some people need help and medicine is best..... also people that close to them need to know a little about their problem to help.. but there is many people that have some small problems that can be deal without medicine..

But whose place is it to tell someone that they don't need meds and they can just "get happy" on their own?

 

[Panacea]

The problem therapy/psychology always contends with is the fact everyone seems to have their own personal PhD in mental health. Since we all pretty much have the ability for meta cognition, we might get overconfident about behaviors and their causes.

I'm half through a MA in counseling and I don't even know all there is to know. People love to judge and assume why someone does what they do, so it's hard to ever really get mental health out there as legitimate.

Too much folk psychology, pop psychology, and anecdotal judgment.
"Oh Dr. Phil says"..."I knew a guy who faked it"... "Oh my grandma always said"

 

[retro]

My mom tells me on a regular basis that it's my own choice whether I'm going to be happy or not. Sure thing mom, I'll just up and decide that I'm not going to feel the way that I do anymore... that's all that it takes. I know a number of people in my personal life, as well as online, that seem to feel the same way.

I wish everyone could realize that things aren't quite as easy as they might seem for those that see themselves as "normal". It'd be nice if people could follow these precepts in regards to mental illnesses.

The BringChange2Mind Principles for Everyone

• It is likely that someone I know is living with a mental illness and that fear of stigma may be preventing them from accepting their illness and seeking help.
• I can make a difference by learning about mental health issues and the devastating effects of stigma.
• If someone I know exhibits sudden changes in behavior, I will pay attention and reach out to them.
• If someone I know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, I will take it seriously and make every effort to ensure they get help.
• I will not perpetuate or tolerate stigma of any kind and will commit myself to changing the way society views people living with mental illness.

People don't have to become an activist about the issue... but for the love of God, it'd be nice if they could at least educate themselves and learn the facts.

 

[Panacea]

I think people like to be ignorant about things that are scary or ugly, honestly. To admit some people have genuine struggles is to admit everything is life isn't always good, and that can be hard for someone who's coping mechanism is "just buck up, and throw on a smile!". What makes me sad is people who do stick to that stigma, and call people weak and worthless.

Hell, if everyone on earth had to take a class about personality disorders alone, I think we might achieve global peace :surrender :eek

 

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I think you probably have a point. It's easier to be ignorant and judgmental than to take the effort to actually understand what other people go through.