Mind4Youth

Authors: Aasha Punithavel, Annika Abraham, Brandon Mabey, Ananya

Humans are social in nature, we are always hungry for communication and affection.

With the massive increase in social media, many people today act as if their life and everything around them is perfect simply because it is such an easy practice, so when someone is diagnosed with a mental condition, it’s common they shield, hide, or feel ashamed of their condition, because to them, it’s a sign of imperfection. This is largely because they feel their friends will judge them. Frequently in friend groups, especially in teens and tweens, those with mental conditions are made fun of. From autism to down syndrome, those diagnosed are often losing friends or even all their friends. 

Let’s say there’s a group of ten popular sophomores in high school, these sophomores have never been diagnosed with any mental conditions, one of the friends though, was recently diagnosed as a high functioning autistic, for this scenario, we’ll refer to her as Rose. This now causes the seven other friends in this group to disassociate themselves with Rose because this (in their opinions) will inevitably damage their popular status and reputation in high school. Two friends within the friend group decide to stay friends with Rose and still hang out, have lunch together, etc. However, this decision does not stick well for the seven friends who removed themselves from Rose’s life now causing a social strain, putting immense unnecessary social pressure on the friends especially the ones in this scenario in-between staying true friends regardless of mental conditions, or vacating a relationship to hold their popular image. This will also likely put Rose in a vulnerable situation and could put a negative toll on her mental health

Beyond the confines of this particular social group, this situation could put additional stress on other diagnosed individuals who fear coming out because they fear getting similar abuse Rose experienced.

If you find yourself facing the often challenging landscape of mental health, know that you are not alone. This segment of the article serves to educate and advise readers on how to address and overcome the stigma that many with mental health conditions may face. If you’re encountering prejudice due to a mental health condition, consider the following:

• Don’t avoid treatment. Fear of retribution and the reactions of society should never prevent anyone from receiving treatment. According to Mental Health America, a national non-profit, over 50% of adults and almost 60% of youth with mental health conditions in the US don’t receive treatment. These statistics are deeply concerning, highlighting the urgent need to combat the stigma regarding mental health and foster an environment that allows individuals to willingly seek and receive treatment and prioritize their mental health. 

• Don’t internalize bias/discrimination. Discrimination is rooted in ignorance and a lack of education regarding a subject. According to the Mental Health Organization, discrimination is spurred on by stereotypes developed from either a lack of experience or knowledge regarding mental health conditions. Discrimination and mistreatment should never deter anyone from prioritizing themselves and going for therapy. Try to consider bigotry as their problem and not yours.
• Don’t Define Yourself By An Illness. You are not your illness and an illness should never define you or your capabilities. Try to separate your definition/image of yourself from your illness, seeing yourself the way you want to be seen will help others see you that way too. For example, “I’m bipolar” → “I have bipolar disorder”. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline stated, “ A mental illness cannot define anyone. It may be a part of you, but you are more than one simple aspect of yourself. You are way more than just a mental illness.”
• Join A Support Group. Joining a support group can be helpful in terms of meeting other people your age who have faced similar bias socially, societally, and systematically. Furthermore, support groups help educate family members about the nature of mental health conditions and what they are. There are many options for support groups, some are in-person and others are virtual depending on your likes and needs. 
• Contact Other Resources. If you suffer from stigma based on a mental health condition, you can receive help from mental health professionals (i.e. psychologists, counselors, psychiatrists), local community health centers, and local community mental health centers.

If you witness prejudice or bias towards mental health conditions in a social, workplace, or school setting, the following can be helpful:

• Talk openly about mental health
• Educate yourself and others: respond to stereotypes and misconceptions
• Be conscious of language, words hurt
• Encourage equality
• Stand up for those being mistreated
• Show compassion for those with mental illnesses
• Share the truth
• Normalize mental health treatment