Stigma about mental illness seems to be widely encouraged by the general public in the western world. During the last few months, Demi Lovato and many other celebrities are vocalizing their own battles against mental illness, helping to combat the stigma that underlies many mental disorders, including bipolar, depression, anxiety and PTSD. The recent death of John Nash, the world-renowned mathematician diagnosed with schizophrenia, once again turned the world to focus on the subject of the 2001 Oscar winning movie, “A Beautiful Mind,” which shed light on his personal challenges with schizophrenia. John Nash and his wife, Alicia, are also remembered for their dedication to help combat the stigma of mental illness, as their son also lives with schizophrenia. They were active with the organizations that helped and supported him, such as Catholic Charities, the National Alliance on Mental Illness and the Association for Advancement of Mental Health. Amidst their own difficulties they worked their whole lives advocating for their son with hope that support can be given to those in need.
It shouldn’t take a tragic, violent headline to ignite the debate about prevention and treatment of mental illness. Mental illness knows no specific age, race, income or education level. Oftentimes, it can be invisible and a cross only known to the one who carries it. The stigma against mental illness is still a very real problem as it affects how many will reflect on their suffering and seek out treatment and care.
John and Alicia Nash
As many as one in five Americans will have a diagnosable mental illness over the course of their lifetime, making this an impactful statistic on families. Showing support and changing the way mental illness is viewed and talked about can drastically change the outlook for the one suffering. Understanding the journey, the pitfalls, the highs and the lows can bring greater knowledge and empathy to those around us who are suffering. At the heart of understanding is the fact that the dignity of the human person does not change with mental illness. They are not loved any less, worth any less or any less deserving of support, relationships and a flourishing life. Relationships are profoundly transforming and oftentimes underestimated in their role with coping with mental illness.
The Catholic Bishops of New York State released a statement in 2014 entitled, “For I am Lonely and Afflicted: Toward a Just Response to the Need of Mentally Ill Persons”. In this statement, the bishops reaffirmed their commitment to ending the stigma of mental illness and welcoming those with mental illness into the Church by providing resources for them. “We must ask ourselves, have we always been as charitable as can be when we encounter those with mental illness? Have we sought to include them and make them feel welcome? Have we avoided the temptation to shun those who are different? … If the answer to any of these questions is no, then we must again look to the example of Jesus given to us in the Gospels, repent for when we have failed, and resolve going forward to mirror His love and mercy for all God’s children.” It is our duty as Christian brothers and sisters to take care of those suffering, not just physically but also wounded emotionally and mentally.
While many people suffering with a mental disorder don’t seek treatment, spreading awareness and education of the prevalence of the conditions can help to encourage people to get the help that they need. The emotional and physical tolls of a mental illness can put much stress on many well-intentioned families and advocating support is crucial. Oftentimes, it is simply being present to what the other is going through that can make the biggest difference and understand their needs.
Pope Francis has been vocal about addressing the critical issues affecting the family, especially during the Synod this past fall. They discussed several matters relevant to mental health, for example, the consequences of divorce on children, the importance of strong families for the health of the culture, the emotional and physical consequences for victims of the sexual revolution, including pornography addiction. The Church is taking notice of the need to end the stigma of mental illness and welcome those who are struggling into the Church to find hope and healing. In order to be welcoming, we must first vocalize the struggles faced. Instead of internalizing the fears and troubles and letting it manifest into unhealthy behavior, speaking out will allow others to reach out and care. “Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted. Relieve the troubles of my heart; and free me from my anguish” (Psalm 25:16-17).
Alicia Nash has said that her and her husband were willing to speak publicly about their family’s experiences with mental illness because they wanted the assurance that the community programs would continue long after they were gone. The uphill battle to end the stigma of mental illness must continue. Courage to speak for those suffering can go a long way in providing for the future of healing and expanding the resources available for those in need. After all, we are all brothers and sisters in Christ.
Jessie Tappel, M.S., graduated from the Institute for the Psychological Sciences and now serves as a clinician for Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Arlington as well as the Director for Communications for IPS, a Catholic graduate school for psychology. She is passionate about educating on issues related to Catholicism and Mental Health.
