The 2018 Mental Health Conference has given me hope. People are more considerate now of those who have mental health issues. And even if there is taboo, it is slowly diminishing. They do not call extremely depressed or anxious people as crazy or stupid. Right now, there is proper diagnosis and terms like clinically depressed or general anxiety disorder are being used. What cannot be seen does not mean it is not there. This is the perfect explanation for mental health – nobody can see it, and it does not mean it is not there but it can be very life-altering.
Fifty years ago, they would call those with anxiety “crazy” because of their fearful and worrisome state. Medical experts would even term it as “having hallucinations” and the usual treatment, lobotomy, which is inhumane. Those who were given that treatment become “zombies” and are not responsive as much. It was sad but then again, thanks to new studies, mental health information and industry has evolved. We now have therapy and treatment for those who are struggling with their mental health issues.
I am not saying that there are no “crazy” people out there. Categorically speaking, some people are a tad bit crazy, yes. Those who are suicidal, severely bipolar, suffering from dissociative identity disorder, in the low end of the spectrum, with intermittent explosive disorder, conduct disorder, or even someone with Down syndrome are not anymore called “crazy,” or “abnormal.” They already have their own medical term and with their own medical and psychological treatment.
Not all people are the same. Each one is unique and some can be more emotional or mentally challenged. It does not mean that they are a lesser person. They were just built this way. Their composition was out of their hands and with their disorders in tow, all they can do is cope and treat. Lucky for some, they can cope using natural ways. But for those who cannot cope on their own, they will need special help. They will also need your understanding.