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Burying the Self-Stigma

 Defining Self-Stigma

I define stigma as the universal unspoken code of discriminatory beliefs, misinformation, blame, and distain for us- people living with a mental health diagnosis. Examples of the stigma is undeniably found in routine discriminatory practices of disqualifying us in housing and objection to receiving different services and getting opportunities. 

Also, ostracizing us in our communities and holding negative assumptions such as being prone to violence. Self-stigma are those negative beliefs turned inward but it goes deeper. It translates into the mindset of "I can'ts," and "I'll never be able to..." Being stuck in that mode of thinking.


Gaining Acceptance

My recovery foundation started at a psychiatric hospital in California. I was fortunate to have an enthusiastic doctor who believed recovery is possible. This made belief in myself attainable. Accepting my diagnosis became a lot easier when my doctor told me I can go back to school. I had stopped attending my university due to the severity of the schizophrenia symptoms. However, I learned I could have a fulfilling future despite living with this condition. 


Recovery Community

Moreover, staying connected with the recovery community. Over the years, I performed a lot of volunteer work with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). I attend support groups and programs for myself and peers. Also, my training as a peer counselor- certified peer specialist (CPS)- helps me see many examples of recovery.


Family Support

Living with a diagnosis has significantly challenged me and my family. I'm grateful we continue to stay connected, supportive, and understanding of my health demands. Having a crisis such as my last hospitalization reinforces how resilient we can be. I stay in contact with my family and friends regularly. This helps me combat isolation and be accountable for my wellbeing.


Recycling Coping Skills

I reflect on my condition a lot. Everyday I take my medication and recycle my coping tools to control flare-ups. I regularly monitor my stress. Even though life is stressful I continue to practice ways to reduce my stress. Self-care rituals are a part of my daily routine. I talk to God and give thanks for my wellbeing. I keep journals to remember daily activities and plans. Listening to uplifting messages and developing my projects.


Burying the Self-Stigma

Disconnecting from the stigma can be challenging- especially, if some of it comes from those closest to us. If you are stuck in the stigma I encourage you to get more involved in our recovery communities such as participating in support groups, attending recovery events, and volunteering. Pressing forward demands work. Yet, if we continue to build ourselves up by learning more about our conditions and how to cope we can win at overcoming the self-stigma. 

Finally, the stigma persists but so does our self-belief that we can get better. Learning about mental health concerns and being in the community shows us that recovery is not only possible but attainable for all of us. We can achieve more and we can do more if we keep moving forward in our wellness routines.

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