When I have conversations with people in the mental health, addiction, and trauma communities the topic of reducing stigma is often discussed. Stigma refers to societal disapproval, or when society places shame on people who live with a mental illness. The pressure of stigma can come from family, friends, coworkers, and society on a broader level. Stigma can prevent people from wanting to get help.
I am often overwhelmed about how I can reduce the stigma that occurs in society. What can little old me do? Earlier today I attended the funeral of a family member. At the luncheon, the sister-in-law of the deceased joined us. She loves to have conversations with others about their lives. She wanted to know what I do for employment. I said I was an author who published a book about my mental health recovery.
Whenever I let people know about my condition sometimes they move on to a different topic because it makes them feel uncomfortable. However, she asked me a series of questions about my book. She admitted not knowing a lot about mental health. Despite this, I could tell she was open to learning and very compassionate. Returning home I reflected on this conversation and realized I took a step with this woman to reduce any stigma she may be carrying. How cool is that?
A conversation such as this may be a small thing but carry a large impact. It is a reminder to me that people do care about mental health, addiction, and trauma. Oh yeah, before leaving she asked how to go about getting a copy of my book. I gave her the title, name, and to go to Amazon. anyone can get a copy of my book by going to https://superhumanbeing.net/
Peace
Larry
email: ljw@superhumanbeingnet
website: https://superhumanbeing.net