Let’s look at the top taboos of mental illness, and what you can do:

1. “You Don’t Look Like It”

One reason why talking about your mental health is taboo is because of the idea that you have to look a certain way to be mentally ill. People imagine that a depressed person has to be crying all of the time, or a person with bipolar disorder is literally happy one second and sad the next.

Mental illness is a lot more complicated than that. If someone says that to you, it’s important you educate them and point out that just because someone looks fine on the outside it doesn’t mean they’re completely fine.

2. “You’re Doing it for Attention”

Another reason why many people feel like it’s taboo to talk about mental health is that some believe that those who are mentally ill are just doing it for attention. This is especially the case in the Internet age, where you can find plenty of stories about attention seekers. However, almost everyone who claims to have a mental illness does. Point out that you gain nothing with having a mental illness.

3. “You’re Taking Medication? Just Go Outside!”

Another reason why mental health treatment is a taboo subject is because many believe that medication is not good at all, and that a person needs a daily dose of nature or exercise to feel better, or they may need to change something in their life.

Situational depression certainly exists, and nature and exercise do help some symptoms, but they aren’t a cure, and some depression isn’t situational. Also, many medications can be taken safely as long as monitored by a doctor. Like STDs, it’s time to end the stigma against taking medication for mental illness.

4, “You’re Seeing a Therapist? What a Waste of Time!”

When people aren’t shaming you for taking meds, they’re shaming you for going to a therapist. Some believe that therapists are a waste of money or offer useless advice.

Point out that therapists have been educated for many years, and the techniques they teach are proven to help many who suffer from mental illness. Usually, medication along with therapy is the solution someone needs.

5. “That Guy is Way Worse Than You. Man Up”

Phrases like these are wrong and make the discussion much more tough. First, there is the idea of comparing suffering. Some may feel like just because you don’t have it as bad as someone with a severe mental illness it means your mental illness isn’t valid. This isn’t true at all.

Also, being told to “man up,” is a problem that many men face. They aren’t allowed to talk about their depression or anxiety without feeling weak. In truth, talking about your weaknesses and wanting to improve yourself is one of the bravest things you can do.

6. “Mentally Ill People Can’t Lead Great Lives”

This isn’t true, either. Mentally ill people can still have fun with their kids and lead some great lives. Some of the most famous people of all time had mental illness.

Salman Zafar

Salman Zafar is the Founder of Health Loops. He is a professional blogger and content creator with expertise across different subjects, including health, environment, tech, business, marketing and much more

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