Talking About Mental Illness

Talking about mental illness should be easy as talking about any other illness. Often times with mental illness people are reluctant to go to a medical professional. This is because mental illness still carries a stigma, and we are all afraid of being stigmatized. I have been there and so I am no stranger to this. 

Breaking Free Of The Stigma!!

The most freeing moment of my life was being able to speak up and and say I need help. 

I am a member of the African American community and especially in our community we struggle with asking for help with mental illness. Also, admitting that we may need help may also be difficult. We some how have to grasp on to the notion that there is power in asking for help. Understand that I am not pointing the finger at anyone. I just want us to get a deeper understanding that there is power in seeking help for mental illness. 

I See Hope!!

In the last 5 years I see that we are making head way with speaking up more about mental health. I have also seen near by towns and college campuses created a stigma free community, to let others know that you are safe from judgment here. This has been a highlight to me, I hope to see more towns, colleges and work places adopted these safe zones for individuals with mental illness. We still have a way to go but I am happy about the progress. I am looking forward to the day when mental health services cost the same as getting a yearly physical exam. Why should mental illness be treated any differently than physical illnesses? I see hope ahead, I wish that everyone can afford the mental health care that they deserve.