Blogtober Day 14: I Just Wanted To Write A Poem

I wanted to write a poem today, but it was more difficult than I expected.  Not the poetry, but the subject matter.  So perhaps I will let the words run themselves.

I wish mental illness was better understood. 

I grew up in a small town, and most people there had the perspective that mental illness = crazy.  If you had depression, you must be suicidal.  If you had insomnia, you must never sleep.  Schizophrenia?  You should probably be put away forever.

Really, though.

Mental illnesses are not the result of personal weakness, lack of character, or poor upbringing.  They are 100% treatable, and fluctuate from minor to major symptoms.

I hoped that in this big wide world, there would be a greater understanding when I left that small town.  Unfortunately there is still a disappointing lack of comprehension.  I get it.  Everyone has their own demons.  Maybe we get so preoccupied with our own, we forget that ours is not a singular battle.  It's merely one confrontation among a war.

A lot of people don't realize they are fighting that battle until it reaches it painful point. 

For example, Depression.  It is not a weakness, but an actual illness.  It has ramifications biologically, socially, and psychologically.  A person can not simply will it away.  Untreated, it will inevitably worsen, and under treated, it will return.

Or another (more common than you think) illness: Schizophrenia.  More than 2 million people alone suffer from this disease in the United States alone.  There are many different types, with multiple levels of severity.  A good number of Schizophrenics disinterested and withdrawn, maybe with disorganized speech or habits.

I feel like if there was a larger emphasis placed on the understanding of mental illnesses, the world would be much better.  On average, 1 in 4 people suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder.  1 in 4!  Basically 25% of the planet.  How much farther could we progress, if those who struggle feel more understood and supported?

I have dealt with intense anxiety for years, and only recently did I attempt to investigate my actual status.  Only when things came to a point when my self-worth was at an all-time low.  As soon as the word depression was applied to me, I did a lot of research on the matter.  So much of what I read made so much sense.  I felt a little more at peace, and I had a much better point of view as far as what I am up against.

For my LDS buddies, Elder Holland spoke about this in Conference last weekend, and I feel it was for a very good reason. 

I have good days and bad days.  These are my battles to face.  Sometimes I have help, and others I must do it alone.  Those are more scary.  But I can do it.

If you are also struggling, please know that you can do it.  I have so much faith in you.  Remember to have faith in yourself.  The pain you feel now is nothing compared to the good you are fighting for.  For every dark moment, there is a blissful relief coming.  Don't give up.  Promise me.  Ok?

This week, I challenge all of you to take just a little time and do a little reading.  You might think you aren't involved in any of this, but I guarantee someone you love is.

Here are some websites I have found informative and helpful.
NAMI
Depression in a Marriage
This blog is PHENOMENAL for mothers & women:
Honest Mom
How YOU can help:
Help A Loved One

Just keep swimming. :)