#bringchange2mind.org

[laf-outloud]

Jared tweeted the Walkerverse Mental Health commercial!

It's so amazing and heartwarming!

[allthesamedifferentbrain-blog]

It is an odd paradox that a society, which can now speak openly and unabashedly about topics that were once unspeakable, still remains largely silent when it comes to mental illness. This month, for example, NFL players are rumbling onto the field in pink cleats and sweatbands to raise awareness about breast cancer. On December 1st, World AIDS Day will engage political and health care leaders from every part of the globe. Illnesses that were once discussed only in hushed tones are now part of healthy conversation and activism. Yet when it comes to bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress, schizophrenia or depression, an uncharacteristic coyness takes over. We often say nothing. The mentally ill frighten and embarrass us. And so we marginalize the people who most need our acceptance. What mental health needs is more sunlight, more candor, more unashamed conversation about illnesses that affect not only individuals, but their families as well. Our society ought to understand that many people with mental illness, given the right treatment, can be full participants in our society.

Glenn Close, "Mental Illness: The Stigma of Silence" http://www.huffingtonpost.com/glenn-close/mental-illness-the-stigma_b_328591.html

[getridofthestigma-blog]

It’s time to walk the talk and and stomp out stigma forever! Bring Change 2 Mind is proud to partner with NAMI again this year to do our part to stomp out stigma. Please join us and make our message seen – and heard. There’s no better weapon against stigma than the power of community. Bring your friends, families, co-workers, neighbors, etc. and change minds – and lives.

[getridofthestigma-blog]

The fear of stigma can have a devastating effect on those living with mental illness. Change happens one person at a time. If you are living with a mental illness, know someone who is, or just want to help, take our pledge to help end stigma.

[getridofthestigma-blog]

[getridofthestigma-blog]

The BringChange2Mind Principles for People Living with Mental Illness

I am living with a mental illness that is treatable and manageable.

I am a valuable and valued person and I deserve to be treated with respect.

I am responsible for the decisions and choices I make in my life.

Educating myself about the symptoms of my illness, and any side effects I may have from treatment, will help me find and use the resources I need to work toward stability.

Communicating about my experiences with others will help them support me in difficult times and keep me “on track.”

If I am feeling suicidal, it is critical that I reach out for help, for in the face of real pain and suffering, it is others who can help me with a commitment to live.

I can reduce stigma in myself and in others by being open about living with mental illness, naming it out loud and raising people’s awareness.

The BringChange2Mind Principles for Everyone

It is likely that someone I know is living with a mental illness and that fear of stigma may be preventing them from accepting their illness and seeking help.

I can make a difference by learning about mental health issues and the devastating effects of stigma.

If someone I know exhibits sudden changes in behavior, I will pay attention and reach out to them.

If someone I know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, I will take it seriously and make every effort to ensure they get help.

I will not perpetuate or tolerate stigma of any kind and will commit myself to changing the way society views people living with mental illness.

[getridofthestigma-blog]

[getridofthestigma-blog]