On FB for example I see so many people sharing things that support mental health. Yet when I talk about it in person, they get visibly uncomfortable. When I exhibit symptoms they dont recognize, I have been called crazy (in the mean way).

People are slowly grasping the basic concept of depression. They are on board with saving "sad" people. What about everything else? Hallucinations, paranoia, anxiety, instability, self harm, etc. Where is the support and compassion for those?

Obviously depression requires awareness and support. The problem is that it's not the ONLY symptom people experience. Just because my brain doesnt work the same as a neurotypical brain, it doesnt mean I am less of a person.

Further more I'm tired of the stereotype that anyone who behaves abnormally or does something terrible is mentally ill. Neurotypicals can be bad people too.

Rant over. Sorry. Feeling crappy and frustrated.

[Wild Coyote]

Yes, it's so very frustrating!

Thanks for your post!


WC

I have noticed the same. It is unfortunate that many totally misunderstand.

This morning I watched the opening skit of last night's Saturday Night Live that we recorded. It made fun, in a sense, of Kanye West's recent meeting with Donald Trump in the oval office. They very clearly recognized Kanye West's behavior as basically...quite ill. I wouldn't exactly say their comedy skit was offensive, or at least I wouldn't call it offensive, though I'm sure some reactions have been. I don't know. I guess it just made me feel bad for the man. He's totally lacking insight into his behavior.

Sorry if this seems slightly off topic. I guess this thought came to my mind because often "help" for manic episodes comes via behavior reprimands, what eventually become embarrassments from mockery and undesirable reactions, or career and/or relationship repercussions. People don't know how to address or help in these cases sometimes. Just as an alcoholic often must hit a bottom to get help, so must many people with mania. I have bipolar disorder, and so does my sister. My nephew had it, too. Alcohol abuse and recovery have been represented in my family, too. With all of that personal experience, one might think my family could easily help my dad, but it's still difficult. I'll admit that I wasn't laughing at the skit.

[~Christina]

I “ came out” on my Facebook about my Bipolar about 1.5 years ago I was like efff it if I lose some “ friends “

I was actually surprised no one had a issue with it. Many people praised me ( not what I was looking for ) for being open.

A few people also have Bipolar that I was unaware of.

I post loads of mental health articles most apply to MI folks and many others enjoy the messages and coping skills one , everyone needs coping skills whether MI or not.

The ones I know outside of FB seem fine with it and often ask questions. I’m lucky and know it , if someone has a problem I’d just stay out of there life or say it was family I have learned to deflect the ignorance , altho it hurts.

I’m sorry you have rude ignorant people

I am entirely open about my illnesses. I had a steady stream of visitors when I was last on the psychward. It's just the people that post about mental illness and then contradict themselves later with lack of understanding/compassion.

Like the friend who suffered from depression himself and then turned around and asked me if I was off my meds when I got upset with him. When someone weaponizes my mental issues, I am done with the relationship. But these same people go on to act like they are supportive of mental illness and such.

I guess overall I'm tired of people who represent themselves one way and then behave another.

[Fuzzybear]

I’m tired too of people who represent themselves one way and behave another, it sucks..

[TheSeaCat]

I am so sick of it too. If I see one more 'friend' post on Facebook that they wished they were bipolar. Why would you wish for a handful of pills to be stable. Not to mention those that post cutsie posts about I support those with mental illness and then your out with that friend and you tell them you have anxiety and they are like what is wrong with you. I've lost a lot of friends from lack of support. I'm still not out on Facebook and I doubt I ever will be.