The Stigma of Mental Illness
May 21, 2009
According toWebster’s dictionary, stigma is “something that detracts from the character or reputation of a person, group, etc.” People do not choose to be mentally ill anymore than someone with a medical condition chose that. Would you criticize someone for having cancer? Unfortunatelypeople with mental illness are not afforded the same compassion. The National Associatoin of Mental Illness (NAMI) has established a presence in each state. The good, dedicated people of NAMI Utah are on the front lines fighting the stigma of mental illness. They come to schools, board rooms, auditoriums – any place where they can raise awareness. They have groups and classes to support and educate – most of which are FREE. NAMI is made up of people suffering from mental illness including depression, bipolar and various forms of schizophrenia. Though they themselves have been ridiculed and discriminated against due to their mental illness, they arrive not in anger about the indignities they have suffered. Rather, these heroes of mental illness arrive armed with grace, dignity and education. If you have any questions, they are more than willing to take your call and answer any questions you might have. Their number is 801-323-9900 and their web address www.namiut.org
