In my early twenties, I found myself staring into a friend’s mirror, feeling like I was caught in a surreal loop, watching myself cry and hearing a voice insist I was unwanted. The emotions swirling around me were overwhelming; pain and beauty collided in an unexplainable way. I was experiencing a psychotic break, although at the time, I couldn’t recognize it.
When my former partner took me to the emergency room, a doctor asked if I practiced Wicca as I struggled to articulate my thoughts. I had no idea what Wiccan even meant. Instead of receiving compassionate care for my mental health, I was met with a dismissive assumption about my beliefs. This doctor seemed to think my suffering stemmed from my supposed paganism rather than acknowledging the reality of my PTSD.
After answering questions about drug use and my mental health history, I was eventually released, having promised I wouldn’t harm myself. By then, I had calmed down enough to just want to leave. I felt embarrassed and confused, questioning when I would finally be “fixed” or “normal.”
Over time, I’ve realized I was never broken, and the idea of normalcy is a harmful myth that no one can truly achieve. If you’re grappling with mental health issues, remember that you’re not alone and that love and support are what you need—not stigma.
Before the pandemic, nearly 20% of Americans had experienced a mental illness, and more than half didn’t seek help due to fear of judgment or losing their jobs. Maria, a writer from California, shares how growing up in her culture brought additional stigma to mental health discussions. She recalls a distant relative referred to as “la loca,” reducing her identity to merely “the crazy one.” The norm in her family was to avoid discussing personal struggles, which led her to cope with anxiety and alcohol abuse instead of seeking help.
Many people, including myself, turn to substances to manage feelings that are hard to articulate. This cognitive dissonance can make it difficult to voice our struggles when society pressures us to be strong and not complain.
James, a father from Texas, has faced anxiety since childhood. As an adult, he still battles with finding healthy coping mechanisms. He learned early on that feeling overwhelmed was not acceptable, with societal pressure to be the cheerful, carefree person. After exhausting his therapy options, he felt like he was running out of time.
Our insurance systems often add to this distress. Before undergoing essential gender-affirming surgery, I had to prove my suffering to my insurance provider, which only added to the emotional toll. I even cashed out my life insurance policy to afford the procedures. Unfortunately, the insurance reimbursement process left me feeling devalued, as my mental health history overshadowed my progress.
Jackie, a resident of New York, explained her husband’s reluctance to seek help for his anxiety and rage due to fears of job loss. Unfortunately, it took a significant life change for him to seek the therapy he desperately needed.
Mental illness knows no boundaries; it affects people across all demographics. Yet, despite the millions who suffer, these issues are often minimized or mischaracterized as laziness or weakness, leading to a culture of silence and shame.
I have been engaged in mental health services since I was 18, armed with a supportive team and a solid toolbox of coping strategies. My diagnoses have helped me access the right care, but the most vital part of my journey has been acknowledging my trauma without self-blame.
We must combat the stigma surrounding mental health. By offering grace and understanding, we can create an environment where individuals feel safe seeking help.
Remember, you’re not broken. You are worthy of love and support. For confidential help, reach out to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
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In summary, the journey through mental health struggles can be daunting and isolating. Understanding that you are not broken but rather worthy of compassion and support is crucial. Let’s work together to eliminate stigma and encourage open conversations about mental health.