Mental Illness

I do not want to romanticize mental illness. But it may help us, as a society, overcome our aversion to speaking openly about mental illness if we recognize there are advantages for its survivors—whether those suffering from it themselves, or those to others who have or are experiencing mental illness.

Mental illness teaches us empathy for others who suffer, whatever the cause of their suffering. With its way of forcing us into unusual perspectives, it can allow us to be more creative. And, like all trauma, it shows us how to be resilient.

Of course all these things are possible only if those who experience mental illness can be given the help they need, instead of the shame they usually receive.