I've been trying to decide on what today's rant should be, and I've decided on one that bugs me often. People with mental disorders are PEOPLE!
I've noticed, and so have other people I know, that when you say something like, "I have a panic disorder," or "I've got depression," or "I'm bipolar," people start treating you funny. Or if you have a panic attack in someone's class (and notice, I'm targeting teachers in general). We are still people, goddamnit! Our brain chemicals are messed up, that's all. If someone had a broken leg, you wouldn't shun them like the plague, would you? Hell no!
If you know someone who has a mental disorder, or meet someone with a mental disorder, don't feel like you have to censor yourself or be really cautious around us. Our problems are in our heads. I mean, obviously don't criticize us a bunch, but don't be fake with us either.
Teachers: Be understanding, but don't make big exceptions for us.
People with mental disorders need stability and reliability, and we also need understanding. I probably will have other stuff to add later, but this is a good start.
Nobody likes Sickly Sam. =[
ReplyDelete(Homestar Runner reference, I don't mean you're Sickly Sam. xD )
But really. If people think someone is depressed, they steer clear, even if they enjoyed their company prior to finding that out (or assuming it).
Sammi, generally speaking, people fear what they do not know or understand. Most of the time they are simply not sure what to say or do, so out of ignorance (lack of knowledge) they avoid people they do not understand.
ReplyDeleteOh, I know. This is something that just reallyyyy drives me nuts. :P
ReplyDeleteExplaining our fears and bad behaviors does not excuse them. As humans, in general, and as Americans, members of the original melting pot, we owe it to others to step out of our comfort zones and attempt to accept others and their differences.
ReplyDeleteThank you!! Exactly the point I try to make. You summed it up perfectly. I will keep that in mind as I try to explain to others. ((:
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