Erase the stigma of mental illness

Dear Editor,

Once again we are approaching the month of May, which is distinguished by being Mental Health Awareness Month. An important focus this year is being stigma-free.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has two meetings a month at the local hospital in classroom one. The meetings are held the first and third Tuesday of the month and are open to those who have or know people suffering with mental diseases and disorders who want to learn more about the illnesses. For information, please call (912) 674-9060. This organization has been in Camden County for many years and the affiliate was established by Dr. Bryan P. Warren.

Everything said in a meeting is confidential. We are well aware of the damage "stigma" does to family, friends and those battling the illnesses. There has been a great focus recently on bipolar disorder as new research and publicity emerges to educate the public. Many articles are published about veterans and post-traumatic stress disorder. Sharing what happens during these difficult times can prove to give encouragement and enlightenment to the situation.

NAMI.org

is a fantastic

website with valuable information. Read the following quote that just talks about education: "Everyone knows a little about mental health issues but knowing the facts about mental illness can help you educate others and reject stigmatizing stereotypes. They are not the result of personal weakness, lack of character or poor upbringing. Understanding mental health isn't only about being able to identify symptoms and having a name for these conditions but dispelling many false ideas about mental health conditions as well."

See more at https://www.nami.org/stigmafree#whatisstigmafree.

These illnesses are complicated and last for a very long time. It takes an extraordinary amount of kindness to do the best job we can to support someone who is battling these diseases. The loss of growth in the marketplace, education, personal relationships, homes and security is staggering.

Please support our program and join us at a meeting. We need you to spread the word about the difficulties facing those with mental illness and eliminating the stigma.

Marianne Feller NAMI board member