When someone shows up to work with a physical illness, they are sent home, or told to go see a doctor. I wish that our society used the same method when people are struggling with mental or emotional struggles. Mental illness is progressive, just like any physical problems we face. People rarely just wake up one day as the homeless man talking to himself on the street. That happens after years of fear, due to stigma and lack of treatment. It needs to be just as safe to call in and say you are depressed and need to speak with someone, as it is to call in for the flu. If our country does not change how it responds to mental health, then we will never be able to address the broader negative results that stem from lack of treatment. There is help, but if people are afraid to seek it because of fear that they will be a work place punch line, then the cycle will continue. We need a cultural change. It begins by no longer making a joke out of suffering, and responding when we see someone who is hurting. Compassion is the first step towards making a difference. Love your neighbor today and try to be a safe person others can confide in. You just might save someones life. I love you guys!
Posted on: Tue, 27 Jan 2015 16:09:40 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015