What is normal anyway? How do you define normal?
To me mental health is a spectrum! The definition of spectrum is a condition that is not limited to a specific set of values but can vary infinitely within a continuum. Now that is more like what describes accurately the human family - unique and infinitely diverse.
People are so quick to label "crazy" anything that's different and doesn't fit in a nice, tidy little box. Just because your perception of reality is different from the next person doesn't give you a right to judge them. Why are people afraid of what is different? Why are human beings obsessed and quick to label?
The past five years I've worked with people from all walks of life affected by mental illness. They're no different from anyone of us. They're somebody's mother, father, brother, sister, friend, and neighbour. They have dreams and goals. They feel pain, joy, sorrow just like you do.
When it comes to mental illness we all experience the range feelings people experience at one point or another. What differs is the degree to which we experience it. Tell me, have you ever felt depressed? afraid? paranoid? elated? Most likely the answer is yes. We all do.
The truth is there is no such thing as "normal". There is what is normal for you, but that is where normal ends. I believe our differences make us interesting. Understanding and accepting our differences is the basis of tolerance.
Comments such as "He is weird!", "She is crazy!"..."They're different!" and words like "crazy," "cuckoo," "psycho," "wacko" and "nutso" are just a few examples of words that perpetuate the stigma of mental illness alive. These words belittle and insult people with mental illness.
I know many of us use these words without intending any harm. However you can tell when you and other people use them to mock someone. We wouldn't mock someone for having a physical illness like cancer or heart disease, it is cruel to make fun of someone with a mental illness.
Ending stigma starts with you. You can decide to learn about mental health and mental illness. You can decide to get to know someone who is suffering from mental illness. Today you do not have to look too far to find someone dealing with mental health issues. There maybe someone in your own circle who is struggling. However many hide it even from those who are close to them because of fear of stigma.
You can use your words wisely. Be sensitive of people who are affected by mental illness. Don't label, stereotype and belittle with your words. Be open and receptive to learning. Please take time now to pass this information forward to anyone who will benefit from it.
If you are someone who is affected by mental illness please share your comments below. What has been your experience with stigma? What do you believe will end stigma? What type of things have been helpful from others in making you feel respected? I'd love to hear your story.
Peace, Love & Gratitude,
Neseret
To me mental health is a spectrum! The definition of spectrum is a condition that is not limited to a specific set of values but can vary infinitely within a continuum. Now that is more like what describes accurately the human family - unique and infinitely diverse.
People are so quick to label "crazy" anything that's different and doesn't fit in a nice, tidy little box. Just because your perception of reality is different from the next person doesn't give you a right to judge them. Why are people afraid of what is different? Why are human beings obsessed and quick to label?
The past five years I've worked with people from all walks of life affected by mental illness. They're no different from anyone of us. They're somebody's mother, father, brother, sister, friend, and neighbour. They have dreams and goals. They feel pain, joy, sorrow just like you do.
When it comes to mental illness we all experience the range feelings people experience at one point or another. What differs is the degree to which we experience it. Tell me, have you ever felt depressed? afraid? paranoid? elated? Most likely the answer is yes. We all do.
The truth is there is no such thing as "normal". There is what is normal for you, but that is where normal ends. I believe our differences make us interesting. Understanding and accepting our differences is the basis of tolerance.
Comments such as "He is weird!", "She is crazy!"..."They're different!" and words like "crazy," "cuckoo," "psycho," "wacko" and "nutso" are just a few examples of words that perpetuate the stigma of mental illness alive. These words belittle and insult people with mental illness.
I know many of us use these words without intending any harm. However you can tell when you and other people use them to mock someone. We wouldn't mock someone for having a physical illness like cancer or heart disease, it is cruel to make fun of someone with a mental illness.
Ending stigma starts with you. You can decide to learn about mental health and mental illness. You can decide to get to know someone who is suffering from mental illness. Today you do not have to look too far to find someone dealing with mental health issues. There maybe someone in your own circle who is struggling. However many hide it even from those who are close to them because of fear of stigma.
You can use your words wisely. Be sensitive of people who are affected by mental illness. Don't label, stereotype and belittle with your words. Be open and receptive to learning. Please take time now to pass this information forward to anyone who will benefit from it.
If you are someone who is affected by mental illness please share your comments below. What has been your experience with stigma? What do you believe will end stigma? What type of things have been helpful from others in making you feel respected? I'd love to hear your story.
Peace, Love & Gratitude,
Neseret
Neseret Bemient is a Personal Health and Wellness coach, speaker, author. She helps women and mothers on their journey to healing, health and wholeness. If you would like to learn more about Neseret and her work follow this link http://www.NeseretBemient.com
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