Special Online Event // Breaking the stigma of mental illness// Thurs 18 Oct, 9 30pm

me too @Mazarita

@cameron

@s-jay, wondering if it might be possible to keep discussion open on this thread until tomorrow. I imagine there might be quite a few people in different time zones who might like to add something to the discussion, if that's possible.

p.s. I still haven't read back on posts. You may already be planning to do this. If so, apologies.

Appreciated, @s-jay.

Thank you for watching the show and coming along tonight. So much appreciated 🙂

Have now read back over the whole discussion and found it interesting and rewarding. Thanks so much, @cameron, @s-jay and everyone who was here for the discussion tonight.

As many on the forum know, I have a diagnosis of Bipolar 1. Throughout my life, people have consistently failed to recognise that I might have any kind of mental illness, by the way I present myself to the world. It usually takes me to actually tell them about it, and is often met with disbelief. And yet, I struggle to function in many basic ways pretty much ever single day of my life.

I like the show's way of reflecting this way in which people with mental illness and people without can be virtually indistinguishable. This would not always be the case, especially for people in acute stages of their mental illness. But for many of us, it might be heartening to feel that we are not 'obvious' in our illness much of the time. Personally, it makes me reflect on the ways I stigmatise myself about my mental illness, something I will continue to work on freeing myself from!

Thanks again to all involved!

Hi Cameron,

I just wanted to congratulate you on having the courage to go on tv to share your story. That takes such guts, even though it shouldn’t have to as mental illness shouldn’t be so stigmatised!

I have been fortunate enough to work within the mental health industry for the past 3.5 years, mostly supporting people who have a diagnosis of schizophrenia (although, personally I’m “anti-diagnosis”). I am incredibly passionate about finding ways to improve the lives of people who have schizophrenia because it has been stigmatised as being a life-long, no hope disorder - when it doesn’t have to be!

I feel so fortunate to have met so many inspirational people living with schizophrenia, who have the most beautiful souls. I love being able to see beyond the diagnosis and get to know the person behind it. Some of their stories will stick with me forever. I have learned so much from walking alongside them in their journeys.

I am so glad to hear you have been able to live such a full life even with your diagnosis. You should be so proud!

I wish you all the best for the future.

Hello @Mischiefmanaged

@yes @cameron is a representation of hope for those of us affected by this illness..

my own family member not agreeing with the medical diagnosis..basically living a life of fear..at times on the run..

I also think that all others on the programme were extremely brave...gruelling tests..

particularly those diagnosed with with a past mental illness incorrectly...

also incredible turn around for Mitch and yes What an ambassador for eating disorders..

huge feelings and and respect for Andy ..who showed such tremendous humility..he will be remembered..

@Mischiefmanaged

are you intending to post on the forums?

I was wondering whether you might want to start a thread ..open discussion on your experiences in working with people with schizophrenia..

your comment about their lovely souls and that they are people not labels touched my heart..

this is what we need on theses forums...help us to be more informed then we can be more of a support for those struggling..

thank you you for reading ....

this subject is close to my heart

Sophia