Why do we view mental health issues differently from physical ailments? May is Mental Health Awareness Month (MHAM), a time dedicated to combating the stigma surrounding mental health, educating the public, and advocating for equitable care. A compelling video released by Attn: for MHAM illustrates the absurdity of how society often reacts to mental illness compared to physical injuries.
The video, which has garnered over 22 million views, takes a unique approach by showcasing ridiculous reactions to physical injuries that parallel the dismissive attitudes often directed toward mental health struggles. For instance, it opens with a man running into a tree and smashing his face, only for his friend to respond, “Please don’t complain, you’ll ruin the vibe.” In another scene, a man in a wheelchair with a broken leg is told, “It’s like you’re not even trying to walk.” When he suffers from a debilitating migraine and takes medication, he receives the response, “You take meds for that?”
Anyone who has experienced mental health challenges—ranging from anxiety and depression to PTSD—has likely encountered similar dismissive comments. From “Your attitude sucks” to “You just need to choose to be happy,” these responses trivialize the pain and struggles individuals face.
Each year, millions of Americans live with mental health conditions. According to Newsweek, approximately “42.5 million American adults (or 18.2 percent of the total adult population in the United States) suffers from some form of mental illness,” including serious conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that about 9.3 million adults, or around 4 percent of those aged 18 and older, experience “serious mental illness” that significantly impacts their daily lives.
Just because mental illnesses are not visible like physical ones does not mean they are any less real or painful. Individuals suffering from mental health issues require just as much support as those with physical injuries. According to the University of Washington, over 90 percent of people who die by suicide have a diagnosable mental disorder, often linked to untreated depression. It is crucial to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health and provide support to those in need.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please seek help by contacting a professional or reaching out to a trusted resource. For more information on pregnancy and home insemination, you can visit this link, as well as this authority on the topic. For excellent guidance on donor insemination, check out this resource.
Summary:
The video released for Mental Health Awareness Month illustrates the irrationality of treating mental health issues differently from physical injuries. It highlights the stigma and misunderstanding surrounding mental health, emphasizing the need for support and education. With millions affected, it’s critical to advocate for equal treatment and understanding for those living with mental illnesses.