Ending the stigma on mental illness
May is mental health awareness month. It is a time to raise awareness for those living with mental or behavioral health issues and help reduce the stigma many experience.
There are many reasons why people develop mental health problems and regardless of the problems, these are health problems just like any other illnesses.
Fear and misunderstanding may lead to prejudice against people with mental health conditions. The discrimination may lead to feelings of hopelessness making it hard to get treatment.
What can we do to reduce the stigma?
Educate yourself about mental health
Be aware of your attitude and behaviour on mental health issues
Educate others and challenge myths and stereotypes
Support mentally ill people and treat them with dignity.
Let it be known that the absence of mental illness doesn't necessarily mean one is mentally healthy. Being mentally healthy means being able to understand one self, comunicate one's needs and listen to others in an empathetic manner.
It also includes how you cope with life's challenges and how one builds a resilient spirit.
There truly is no health without mental health
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