Stigma is difficult for me to explain to people and what it looks like in our daily activities. I will attempt to do so with a story. Sam reaches out to heal a sad woman who spends many days alone in her apartment. Sam was being watched closely by his faith community since Sunday was meant for resting, and he offered comfort and compassion to the woman. Those looking to Sam were not doing it in faith to see the power of his healing love restore the woman to mental and spiritual health.
No, the faith community told him she may have a gun in the house and have violent behavior. They were saying things to make Sam look bad and create fear in his heart. He knew what was in their hearts so he responded with a question, “Is it permissible to do good any day of the week rather than support a person with mental health or substance misuse conditions”?
Each human life is sacred because it is a gift from God (the Higher Power). We can never tire of witnessing this message because the dignity and worth of every human life are rooted in our creation. Life is a gift from God it is protected and treasured. If we believe this and witness courageously we show others we have a greater respect for all human life.
Sam remains silent in the face of his question to the faith community and then proceeds to connect with the woman mentally and spiritually. He continues to show up at her house in the weeks and months ahead focusing on strengths and unique dignity. The faith community began to see her differently realizing she is not violent or a person to be feared.
Sam helped reduce stigma in his faith community.
What can we do in our homes, community, and country to reduce stigma?
If we struggle with a mental health condition or substance misuse conditions how can we cope and take care of ourselves despite the stigma we see and feel?
SuperHuman Being
Peace
Larry
email: ljw@superhumanbeing.net
website: https://superhumanbeing.net/