The No Stigmas Project has a campaign going right now to try and help make access to mental health care and treatment a right for all people. While there have been some incredibly positive steps in this area, from the mental health reforms in the Affordable Care Act and the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, far too many people suffer in silence from depression, anxiety or other issues because of the stigma we still associate with mental health.
The #NoStigmas campaign exists to let people know that they don’t need to suffer alone, that help is available and that it can get better. This particular project does that by encouraging people affected by mental health issues to shed the stigma and tell their own stories.
This has been a central mission of this blog and I’m proud today to be a part of the campaign and let you know my story and why I have no stigmas.
I’m 31 years old and have depression, anxiety and alcohol abuse issues. A little over a year ago that combination made me like I had no hope and no other escape from my pain but to take my own life. It can be the scariest and saddest place to find yourself, but it doesn’t have to be the end. It can get better. Reaching out to family and friends at what seemed like the nadir of my life saved me. I sought treatment and support. And today I’m one year sober, a suicide attempt survivor and feeling better than I have in a long time. And I try to be as open as I can and honest with my struggle because I hate to think of someone facing this type of situation on their own. I try and live without stigmas and to tell my story so that others know that it can get better, and that help is out there for you.
Please share your story or this one with family and friends and check out the #NoStigmas project. Feel free to leave a comment or ask a question below!
Paul's letters... 