I grew up in a family that included persons with mental illnesses. Of course my opinion was a little warped as a child because in those days the only treatment for Manic Depression was Shock Therapy. I haven't researched the treatment thoroughly but I do know it didn't help.
It was drilled into our heads that this was something to keep to ourselves. It was spoken about in hushed tones...don't let the neighbors find out. If they did, we would be shunned. Isn't it a shame that the things most needed by those suffering (love, acceptance and support) were the things denied? Anyone with mental illness was made to feel as if they were second class at best...unreliable, untrustworthy and tainted at the worst.
I would love to say that today, because of research, treatments and enlightenment, things have changed...but have they? How do you view mental illness? Does it make you uncomfortable? Why? It's not like it's contagious...and even though you cannot see the symptoms (as you would with a broken leg or after a surgery), they are very real.
Please view the videos below...Comic Relief in the UK is working to provide funds to help those in need...and they do a good job of speaking out...It is time to change!
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