As a society we can be too quick to assert that someone has “lack of insight” or agnosia. We jump to conclusions for others to point out this and other issues we might notice. We don’t want an explanation, it is all to easy to assume the worst. Why is it not acceptable to celebrate regaining insight into one’s own life?
All too many times I have been told, you should do this or that. I don’t ask for the advice, but it had come with the territory allowing people to interject. Now that I am recovering….are those same people in my life still offering opinions? Yes, but do I allow them in? Maybe, maybe not. Others have warned me against sharing my thoughts and feelings. I care somewhere in the back of my head. But the other side of me maybe my emotional brain, says, who cares? This is the pervading effects of stigma surrounding living with a mental health condition. Literally no one has said, Sarah, I am proud of you. Maybe two people. Is it too difficult to positively assert yourself? Does society assume that *you* will not recover? Yes. In my opinion this is almost always the case. I see the pervasiveness of this stigma all around me.
She’s crazy, she’s fragile, she can’t handle it, she’s irresponsible, she is too open about her illness, she should be more careful. I have felt all of these things lately, whether that is my perspective or not…these are not good feelings to have as you struggle to get better. I’m tired. Ladies and Gents…I am so exhausted by even this perceived stigma. If it is a reality, then please don’t allow the door to kick you on the way out. I don’t welcome this in any way.
As a society and culture of freedoms, we should congratulate those who work hard to stay well, rather than brow beating their assertiveness or ability to be proactive. Anyway. I hope that the next time you come across anyone struggling in life…to take the time to listen and be kind. Offer them positivity instead of pushing them down. Be a light in their life. Offer support if you can in times of trouble. Refrain from jumping to conclusions. Be a good human, and others will offer the same to you. Take the time to sit with someone who is struggling. Give them resources or whatever you are comfortable with. Let’s normalize celebrating those with mental illness who can’t have a voice of their own. Let’s be proud of those who are doing the hard work. Let’s work harder to come together and support each other instead of breaking others down.
The Seascapechronicles 