[…] Sudanese, among others — a second chance at life. We were immigrants and refugees, but we also became neighbors, co-workers and friends. The Aftermath of Trauma and Stigma of Mental Illness Once we made it across the border to freedom, we were safe from bombs, gunfire and immediate physical harm. However, the memories and […]
I often refer to myself as a “wallflower child” — someone who was desensitized by childhood trauma and exposure to adult behavior. Most parents try to prevent this kind of upbringing; it’s why they tell their children not to “grow up too fast.” My experience was different. In my community and home, I witnessed addiction, […]
[…] lower than you’ve ever been, to stand up taller than you ever were.” – Unknown Sarah Merritt Ryan is a writer covering mental illness topics like stigma, recovery and hope. She is a survivor of schizophrenia and is now a wife, mother and small business owner. She is a frequent NAMI Blog contributor, […]
[…] provider who has worked in the mental health field for two decades. Doing this is my definition of turning pain into purpose. For far too long, the stigma of DID has kept people hidden and silent. Just like I was, people living with the condition are hesitant to share their stories; they are afraid […]
[…] in the middle — and they are not afraid of mental illness. Their open and continued acceptance is the kind of example we need to fight the stigma attached to my diagnosis. They are always a phone call away, and I trust that I can contact them whenever I am questioning my symptoms or […]
[…] his life is still worth living, just like mine. Ultimately, I am hopeful for the future. Sarah Merritt Ryan is a writer covering mental illness topics like stigma, recovery and hope. She is an ongoing NAMI Blog contributor and Connection Support Group Facilitator based in North Carolina. She is a survivor of schizophrenia and is now a wife, mother and small business […]
[…] am here now, healing in a new way while also trying to make a difference. Sarah Merritt Ryan is a writer covering mental illness topics like stigma, recovery and hope. She is a survivor of schizophrenia and is now a wife, mother and small business owner. She is a frequent contributor to the […]
[…] Carter Symposium on Mental Health Policy to address today’s most pressing issues. In 1996, she initiated the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism to address the stigma associated with mental illness. Along with Susan Golant—her latest was also coauthored by Kathryn Cade—she wrote three significant books addressing mental illness issues: Within Our Reach: […]
[…] to other forms of violence. The series resulted in strong reactions in the mental health community (pro and con). Discussion of violence (and the title) risked perpetuating stigma around mental illness while involuntary treatment is an issue that often splits mental health advocates. Meg Kissinger As part of the series, the MSJ published an […]
[…] a caseworker in the future, however, she can only register volunteers. In contacting me, she asked that I use her story to help spread awareness about the stigma and discrimination that people with mental illness face—from people who make assumptions and never take the time to know us. Her story left me thinking. In […]
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