Stop the Stigma of Mental Illness
Robert is a Biology Major, a junior, an ultimate Frisbee player and a son. He works hard, and he is a happy, productive member of society. He also happens to be recovering from depression.
Like many other Americans recovering from mental health problems, Robert has fought a tough battle against stigma.
Studies show that people with mental health problems do get better, and millions recover completely, leading full and active lives. But stigma prohibits too many from seeking the diagnosis and treatment necessary for improved mental health.
Reducing the stigma and discrimination associated with mental health problems is critical in helping more people recover from them. We've joined a new Federal initiative whose goal is to create a more accepting environment for people with mental health problems.
The campaign - What a Difference a Friend Makes (at http://www.whatadifference.org/) - is designed to decrease the negative attitudes that surround mental illness and encourage young adults to support their friends who are living with mental health problems.
By signing this petition, I agree to support my friend or family member who has a mental health problem. I will listen, encourage and support them. I will refrain from judgement and will not shame or blame them. Rather, I will support their recovery, their strength and their hope.
Robert is a Biology Major, a junior, an ultimate Frisbee player and a son. He works hard, and he is a happy, productive member of society. He also happens to be recovering from depression.
Like many other Americans recovering from mental health problems, Robert has fought a tough battle against stigma.
Studies show that people with mental health problems do get better, and millions recover completely, leading full and active lives. But stigma prohibits too many from seeking the diagnosis and treatment necessary for improved mental health.
Reducing the stigma and discrimination associated with mental health problems is critical in helping more people recover from them. We've joined a new Federal initiative whose goal is to create a more accepting environment for people with mental health problems.
The campaign - What a Difference a Friend Makes (at http://www.whatadifference.org/) - is designed to decrease the negative attitudes that surround mental illness and encourage young adults to support their friends who are living with mental health problems.
By signing this petition, I agree to support my friend or family member who has a mental health problem. I will listen, encourage and support them. I will refrain from judgement and will not shame or blame them. Rather, I will support their recovery, their strength and their hope.
My anxiety and depression keep me from being able to work. I was able to obtain disability benefits. However, the process of convincing others I have these problems made me feel even more of an outsider. No one should have to feel this way.
See http://wrongfuldeathoflarryneal.com
Mental Illness is a disease and it can happen to anyone. Please,help!
I suffer bi polar disorder and I can't tell you how many jobs I have lost or so called friends who tell me to "choose to be happy" or "snap out of it". Even shows on tv show mentally ill people in straight jackets bouncing off the walls. That is so unreal. I am just as smart as any non depressed person and I do have feelings. If you mention "depression" people think you are crazy or being punished for your sins. This is an important issue and it needs to be understood by the public.
I am one of those and I know others who seem to have it as well. Its not easy, I wish there was more awareness about it. Support them as much as you can, you don't know how much it'll truly mean to them. They will appreciate it and thank you for it once they overcome it :)
I am also in the same situation as Robert although I had to give up university due to lack of understanding support from my uni, mental health should not be a taboo subject and people that suffer it need people not to judge
My sister has mental illness. She's getting lost in the cracks. I love her dearly. She's not getting the help she needs. Something must be done.
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6:29 pm PST, Feb 18,
Gale Weaner, Texas
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I have a survivor of mental illness though it is still a constant battle for me everyday. I wish people would realize the truth about mental illness and acept me for who i am!
As Albert Ellis once said, ".....there is nothing good or wrong, but the thinking makes it so"..Give a chance to those recovering from mental ailments and help them in this endeavour
