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Don’t Fall for the Myths — You’re Not Defective
by Jamie Rivers
Updated: Feb. 25, 2021
Originally Published: Feb. 25, 2021
In my early 20s, I found myself staring into a friend’s mirror, witnessing a surreal moment where I felt like I was viewing a never-ending reflection, observing myself cry. A voice in my head echoed the painful words of never being wanted, and I was trapped in a whirlwind of emotions, overwhelmed by both pain and beauty. I experienced a psychotic break, though I didn’t realize it at the time.
When my partner took me to the emergency room, I was confronted with a doctor who, in the midst of my chaos, asked if I was Wiccan. Confused and speaking rapidly, I didn’t understand the relevance of the question. Instead of receiving the care I needed for a mental health crisis, I was treated as if my pain stemmed from an obscure belief system. This response felt more plausible than acknowledging that I was grappling with PTSD.
After a series of questions, including inquiries about drug use, they finally addressed my mental health history. They contacted my psychiatrist and psychologist, and I was eventually released after assuring them I wouldn’t harm myself. By then, I was embarrassed and bewildered, feeling like a failure. I had been in therapy for a few years, yet it seemed like nothing was changing. When would I feel normal?
Over time, I’ve come to understand that I was never broken, and the notion of “normal” is a false ideal. If you’re struggling with your mental health, know that you’re not alone. You deserve love and support, not stigma.
Before the pandemic, around 20% of Americans had faced mental health issues, yet many refrained from seeking help due to fear of judgment or losing jobs and relationships. Maria, a writer from Florida, explains that growing up Latina added to the stigma surrounding mental health in her culture. She recalls a relative who was simply known as “la loca,” the crazy one, without any real support or understanding. This cultural narrative often leads to individuals suffering in silence, resorting to substances like alcohol to cope with unexpressed pain.
Ashley, a mother of three from Vermont, has battled anxiety and panic attacks since childhood. She learned early on that being overwhelmed was not “normal.” Society’s expectation for women, particularly young girls, is to be cheerful and carefree. Ashley felt she was failing to meet that ideal, leading to years of searching for a solution before her therapy coverage lapsed.
Insurance systems can be harsh. Before undergoing gender-affirming surgery, I had to prove my suffering to insurance providers, only to face significant out-of-pocket expenses afterward. Despite being stable and committed to my mental health, I was denied a new life insurance policy due to my past mental health challenges.
Lonnie, who lives in New York, shared that her husband avoided mental health services out of fear of losing his job. This reluctance caused lasting harm to their family until he finally sought help after leaving the Army.
Mental illness knows no boundaries; it can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. Yet, the stigma surrounding it often leads to silence and shame. We must reject these harmful patterns.
Since I started receiving mental health support at 18, I’ve built a robust toolkit of coping strategies and have learned to navigate my trauma. I refuse to blame myself for my past or my mental health struggles. We need to extend understanding and compassion to one another, encouraging those in need to seek help without fear of judgment.
Don’t believe the lies. You’re not broken. You’re not a failure. You are worthy and loved.
If you or someone you know is struggling, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration offers 24/7 confidential services in both English and Spanish.
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Summary:
This article explores the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health issues and the often misguided perceptions of being “broken” or “abnormal.” It emphasizes the importance of seeking help and support without shame and highlights the barriers people face when navigating mental health care. The narrative reflects personal experiences and societal challenges, urging readers to recognize their worth and the need for compassion.
Keyphrase:
Mental health awareness
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