I am 'mentally ill'. [View all]

[Are_grits_groceries]

I have dealt with depression for 40 years. This includes 2 major episodes when I signed myself in to get help I knew I needed. I have never felt the urge to hurt anyone but myself.

I will not get a gun because even though I have a handle on it now, if I was to drop into a black hole it is too easy to end everything before any steps to help are taken. Logically I know that I can recover. However, that is overridden by the massive dark cloud that interrupts every part of life. I do not believe anything will help.

If I tell some people that I do deal with depression, I am viewed with side eyes. I know that many are uncomfortable and that some wonder if I am going to suddenly erupt into some homicidal tornado.

Many people do not make distinctions. I have to be careful if I decide to confide in anyone. It is a burden for those who try to help. When I need someone to talk to, my cats psychoanalyze me many times.

This is what society and our system of mental health have created. People who need help that could ease problems before they curl up into nothing are shit out of luck. Many just suffer in silence for what can seem like eternity. Others who have major problems are never given the help they need or cannot be dealt with in a humane way that keeps them from harming others.

It is beyond shameful. Please consider all the ramifications of dealing with the 'mentally ill'. It is a catchall term that traps people in a type of limbo or outcast group for a long time.

Crazy Grits