Social Stigma

Have you ever noticed that there are no questions asked when people go out of their way to assist an individual in a wheelchair? When it comes to physical illnesses and disabilities there is not a lot of social stigma; however when it comes to mental illnesses there is quite a different social view. As a whole, the community can make a difference in conquering the social stigma that makes us see individuals with disorders as outsiders. Mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression are illnesses that you cannot tell someone has simply by glancing at them. These disorders are just as real and serious as any physical ailment, and should not be taken lightly. Take anxiety for example; It is an illness in an individuals brain that they have absolutely no control over. Society sees people with this illness simply like they "worry too much" and are often told to "just relax" but it is not that simple. For instance, i have a friend who has had anxiety all of her life. As children, she would have fits while taking timed tests or giving speeches in front of the class. She was often teased for being too shy, and for crying. The kids, much like …show more content…
I, for one, am going to do my best by being understanding to all my friends who are mentally ill. I will understand when my friends with depression don 't want to go out, and just want to stay in and talk and open up to me instead. I also want to be there for my friend with anxiety by reassuring her that things are fine and that i care about her very much. As for people i know with other mental illnesses, i will do everything in my power to make them feel accepted and loved and to learn about what it is that they are suffering with. I am one hundred percent dedicated to doing these things. Not only will i be supportive for a short time, but throughout out whole