I sometimes consider shutting down this site to focus on other writings, particularly when I look at cost. I’ve resisted monetizing through ads because I want to remain unbiased. I don’t want my readers to think I endorse particular drugs or treatment approaches, and pharmaceutical companies are the only big money donors interested in “pay per click” support for sites like this.  But every time I think I’ll just pull the plug, I get a letter like the one below: and I realize that every bit of advocacy and support contributes to improvements in treatments and in the lives of others. And so for now, we’ll continue.

Please read on…

and if you have a positive story of tale of support to share email me!

Hi Kate!

I’m a 28-year old doctor from the Philippines & I have a sister who has bipolar disorder. I’d just like to say thank you for creating this website & thank you for pursuing your advocacy.

Viewing this site brought tears to my eyes & I deeply feel that something has to be changed about the stigma of mental health. Seeing the videos here made me realize that society must be liberated by this stigma, as much as there was also discrimination for people before w/ leprosy or even for black people.

This is a start & I am positive that change is coming & little by little, we’ll all grow as a better society by accepting this change.

Thank you again so much & never tire of doing good, cuz you never know how many lives you have touched every single day.

Kudos & God bless!

I care for someone with a serious mental illness.

Sometimes the illness “gets in the way.”

What are appropriate boundaries, and how do I set them?

1. Discuss how you hope to treat others and how you expect to be treated.
2. Agree on a format for solution when these expectations are not met.
3. Plan and stick to individual, separate activities as well as “together time.”
4. Respect one another’s privacy and clearly establish times or topics that are off limits.
5. Do not tolerate self injury, violence or abuse of any kind.
   If they occur, seek help or tell someone immediately.
6. Safety is a top priority. If you question anyone’s safety, get help. Call a responsible adult or dial 911.
7. Expect that your relationship will be kind, supportive and loving. Always work toward that goal.

What skills or strategies will help me deal with a family member or friend with a mental illness?

1. Show compassion. Being diagnosed with a mental illness can be scary and confusing. Some people are relieved by a diagnosis and actively seek treatment; others may be devastated, ashamed or in denial.
2. Encourage your loved one to learn about treatments and services. Remind them that finding the right treatment or services takes time and involves some trial and error.
3. Practice “active listening.” Listen and then express your understanding back. Acknowledge his/her feelings. Don’t discount them, even if you believe them to be symptoms of the illness.
4. Understand medication challenges. Side effects often make people want to stop taking their medicine. Urge them to take their meds and talk to the doctor about making adjustments.
5. Know that recovery isn’t just about staying on medication. Self-esteem, social support and contributing to society are essential elements of recovery.
6. Learn to cope with unusual behavior. People with mental illnesses are sometimes disruptive or behave in an embarrassing way. If this happens, tell a responsible party, like a parent or doctor. This information can lead to more effective treatment.

I love someone who has a serious mental illness.

How can I prevent our relationship from being all about mental illness?

1. Participate in normal, fun activities together. Watch movies, play games, go for walks, etc.
2. Establish “no health-talk” times.
3. Work together on necessary tasks, such as cooking, grocery shopping and gardening.
4. Create routines and schedules that encourage living healthfully and well.
5. Always be respectful, kindand supportive. And expect the same in return.

I have a family history of mental illness.

What should I watch for, in myself, to remain healthy?

1. If you have a family history of mental illness, avoid drugs and alcohol. They can trigger the illness.
2. If you’re worried about your own mental health, keep a daily log or journal of your concerns.
3. Learn symptoms and signs of onset and monitor yourself for these.
4. Confide in someone you trust and ask them to tell you if you exhibit these symptoms or behaviors.
5. Talk to your parents, school counselor or doctor if you are worried about your own mental health.
6. To maintain good mental health, eat a well-balanced diet, get at least 30 minutes of physical exercise every day, sleep 8 or more hours each night and avoid drugs and alcohol.

Glenn Close’s nephew, Calen Pick, is diagnosed with schizophrenia. Here, he and his cousin, Close’s daughter Annie Starke, discuss living with the stigma surrounding mental illness.

Additional video and information can be found at www.bringchange2mind.org

Shari and Brandon Staglin share their experiences living with schizophrenia.

For more video and information about mental illness visit www.bringchange2mind.org

Tricia and Karen Callaghan share their experiences  with chronic depression.

Additional video and information available at www.bringchange2mind.org

View additional videos and learn more by going to:

www.bringchange2mind.org

Fighting the stigma of mental illness…

For additional videos and information, go to:

www.bringchange2mind.org