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I Believe People Misunderstand Mental Illness

It's something people can't see from the outside, so it's not so important in their eyes. If you have a broken leg or something that's clearly visible and people will be sympathetic with you. But with a mental disability, a lot of people say to just suck it up or that you're just lazy or something like that. And in some cases they think you're just plain crazy, dangerous or an idiot. It's sad that people don't just get to know someone or take the time to read about it before making assumptions.

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SAandME

So well said, it is an illness that can not be seen so hence you are just making it up.

Crazycoral84 · 36-40, M

Yeah, that's the easiest way for some to respond, don't think about how hard certain things are for that person because their mind is processing it different but just tell them that they are lazy or that they have to man up and just do it.

SAandME

"Man up" - those were the words my GP used when I first visited him in the early 80's. Things have moved on a little now they just throw Anti - d tablets and CBT therapy at you. CBT was a waste of time for me and I do not want to live my life permanently taking tablets for depression.

Crazycoral84 · 36-40, M

Yeah, mental health did become a little better, but there are still more than enough people who just don't understand how hard it is to get out of it or that it's pretty much impossible to get out of. I've done EMDR, something about reprogramming the brain at certain memories. I've been doing some CBT, but it's really hard if you know damn well what the problem is, but you just can't seem to get out of it. I have a social anxiety and for me i have the feeling i just walk into a invisible wall and just can't get past it. The most important thing is to have people around you that support you, especially in the dark periods.

SAandME

Yes I suffer with SA to, unfortunately I don't have any support am divorced with no real friends so am now basically agoraphobic. The last few years have just been a downwards spiral :)

Crazycoral84 · 36-40, M

That really does suck. Well at least i can say that i know how it is. And most importantly, try and think about the positive stuff. Never give up on trying to work on yourself and your condition!

notmindfulenough

Do you mind if I ask how EMDR was? Do you think it truly helps "reprogram" the negative associations with memories?