Perpetuating Stigma: Halloween Costumes

 

With Halloween festivities upon us, I think there is an important point to be addressed: Do not dress up as a mentally ill person. No “psycho”, straight jacket, “escape from the nuthouse” costumes. Why? This practice only further enforces stigma surrounding mental illness…

‘To dress up as a mental illness, you’re suggesting that mental illness is something to be laughed at or scared of.’

I honestly had no considered this issue, but it makes perfect sense. Please be sensitive folks. Padded rooms are not nearly as fun as they look. Ok?

Happy Halloween everyone!

via metro.co.uk

“I’m Here”

There is a fantastic new mood disorder awareness campaign organized by the Depression and Bipolar Allience (DBSA) called “I’m Here”….

I’m here… is a way—for both people living with a mood disorder and those who support—to open up a channel for communication and to say, “I’m here…”

Not only does the linked site provide information about mood disorders, but also suggests many ways in which we can all get involved in the conversation to break the stigma surrounding mental health. The DBSA provides instructions for how to make your own pin, or will send you one for the cost of shipping.

I am going to make mine this afternoon.

via dbsalliance.org

“SNL” Star Jokes About Mental Illness – And We Love It.

Pete Davidson, star of “Saturday Night Live”, was recently diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. And he’s not holding back any comedic punches:

“I was born depressed, but it might make me feel better if I was on TV more.”

As more and more well-known people are honest about their mental illness, the more it breaks down stigma. Way to go, Pete.

via self.com

The Role of Pets in Managing Mental Health

Our pets can be invaluable to our mental health; here are just three roles they play:

1. Calm Presence

2. Social and Emotional Support

3. Sense of Security

Read more in detail about each role here.

via bphope.com

Friendship & Borderline Personality

I think this is a really important article for friends and family of those with BDP. Acceptance is all about understanding.