AboutChris Harris Expertise I can help with general mental health questions including depression, crisis intervention, drug abuse, and relationship questions. I am not able to give advice about medications or legal advice.
Experience Out patient therapist, emergency room social worker, and drug and alcohol counselor
Education/Credentials masters degree in social work, State social work license
Expert: Chris Harris Date: 6/6/2008 Subject: Misunderstanding mental illness
Question My question is why are so many people still so ignorant about mental illness? I have suffered from severe and debilitating depression for as long as I can remember, and I see a therapist on a regular basis and take medication. Because of my depression I often feel tired and lethargic, and am unable to do simple every day tasks. You wouldn't believe how many people have implied that I am lazy, or that I am weak, or that I simply do not want to get better. A lot of people have told me that I just need to change my way of thinking and be more positive. It just isn't that easy. I want to smack people when they say that, but I just keep it all inside. Do they think that I enjoy being this way? It is so frustrating.
I was put on a disability pension because I was unable to work due to my mental illness. That is something that really bothers me. I would love to have a career, an active social life, be able to keep my home neat and tidy etc etc But I am just not capable of doing so. And it frustrates me that so many people fail to understand. If I had a physical ailment like diabetes for instance, they would be much more understanding. How can I get people to understand that I am not lazy or apathetic or weak etc and that mental illness is real? Thank you.
Heather
Answer Heather,
There is no convincing the ignorant of anything. As we move though life, most of us experience depression (that's depression with a little "d") and we get a taste of the debilitating struggle you fight everyday. Keep spreading the word. Don't let people off the hook, though. Educate them; help them out of their ignorance. Thanks for the work you are doing to help the blind see. You are an inspiration.
Good luck,
Chris
