Chapter 1: Understanding Stigma and Self-Perception

When I first stepped into the realm of peer counseling, I was surprised by the civil rights aspect of the movement. Having lived with schizoaffective disorder for seventeen years, my interactions with psychiatry have been largely positive, and I truly appreciate how it has helped restore my life. Yet, during my training as a peer specialist, I found it puzzling why there was such a strong opposition to psychiatry, especially since many trainers had their own psychiatrists and therapists.

As I gained more experience in the field, I took the time to dismantle my own self-stigma. This involved collaboration not only with my psychiatrist but also with my manager, who is a social worker. We frequently discussed what should and shouldn't occur in our environment, and gradually, I began to identify the ways I had been discriminating against myself, viewing myself as an “other.” The journey of combating stigma required me to recognize myself as a person first, one who had experienced trauma. While my trauma influenced my social interactions and mental processes, I came to understand that I am equal to others and deserving of the same human rights.

Initially, when I heard individuals making jokes about people in our units, I tried to fit in with them. I wasn't angered and often aligned myself with “the clinical team” and individuals who appeared healthier. Over time, however, I learned that health status didn't define a person's worth, and I needed to associate myself with good character. This alignment was a continual, moment-to-moment choice that ultimately provided me with clearer insights. The residents in our units require advocacy, and I increasingly recognize this as my responsibility. There are universal human traits that often get overlooked in the context of psychiatric disorders—attributes related to identity and personhood that deserve acknowledgment and respect, which isn't always given.

When I discussed microaggressions with my manager, I admitted that I often overlooked them to maintain team harmony. I feared that confronting such issues could create rifts, distancing me from dedicated individuals at the hospital. My initial response to microaggressions was to remain silent, hoping that my lack of engagement would speak volumes.

At times, this silence sparked significant conversations and prompted shifts in perspective. However, I eventually realized that silence alone wasn't driving the necessary changes. My first reaction to stigma and mistreatment in our units was anger, but I learned to acknowledge and let it go. My doctor reminded me that hatred cannot inspire change; only love can do that, a sentiment that resonated deeply with me.

To maintain kindness and compassion for others, I recognized the need for forgiveness. I understood that to change someone's perception, I had to connect with them. Blaming others for their knowledge gaps proved unproductive. By setting aside negative feelings, I aimed to prevent further complications within the social dynamics of our environment, allowing others to see me as a person first, who occasionally experiences distress due to schizoaffective disorder. I discovered that I still liked those who unintentionally or intentionally microaggressed against me, and the feeling was mutual. The focus should be on education and unity, rather than dividing those who "understand" from those who "don't."

Numerous factors influence our perceptions, many of which are beyond our understanding. One significant factor is the stigma perpetuated by popular culture. The media, films, and television often capitalize on experiences with psychosis, using them to entertain and generate revenue. I question why these narratives are created when talented writers could instead portray a more humanized view of psychotic disorders.

Some might argue that such portrayals are merely for entertainment value. For instance, jokes about lobotomies often circulate casually at work and in daily life. Why is there humor surrounding the idea of surgically altering someone's brain as a supposed cure for schizophrenia, especially when I am living proof that therapy and medication can restore lives?

The film and media industries have fostered a culture where such portrayals are deemed acceptable because they are profitable. They use various techniques—visual and verbal subliminal messaging, auditory cues, and more—to captivate audiences and keep them engaged. Why not apply these same creative approaches to foster understanding and humanization of mental health conditions, as is done for other health issues?

In a society that champions freedom and civil rights for various psychiatric conditions, why isn't there a dialogue focused on humanizing those with psychotic experiences? Why doesn't the media showcase individuals like me, who lead full lives—working, writing, nurturing friendships, owning homes, and extending love to others? I actively help people navigate their darkest moments, yet the conversation around de-stigmatizing my experiences seems almost nonexistent. Initially perplexing, this realization compelled me to seek forgiveness as I navigated these challenges.

Living with the dehumanizing language present in workplaces, media, and everyday conversations is distressing. Currently, societal norms often involve mocking and stigmatizing psychosis, which exacerbates self-stigmatization and forces individuals into secrecy. When one shares their struggles, perceptions shift, even though they remain the same good person they always were. When will the dialogue begin, and when will real change take place?

The first video titled "Deconstructing Stigma: Changing Attitudes About Mental Health" delves into the impact of stigma on mental health and the importance of changing perceptions through education and advocacy.

The second video, "New Mental Health Exhibit on Display at Bangor International Airport," showcases an initiative aimed at raising awareness and understanding about mental health issues through innovative public displays.

Chapter 2: The Role of Media in Shaping Perceptions

As we reflect on the media's role in shaping societal views on mental health, it becomes clear that there is a significant gap in representation. The narratives provided often do not reflect the reality of those living with mental health challenges.