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The story of the Mental Health Bell is one well worth reading. It's also a reminder. A reminder that those of us who are fortunate not to suffer with severe mental health problems should be the first to help those with illnessess that can suck the life out of a person. Mental health allows us to enjoy life. Mental illness and the stigma of mental illness continue to keep some people locked away in a dark place.
I challenge you to make an effort to reach out and do something special for someone who suffers from these devastating illnesses (depression, bipolar, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc.)in your church, your neighborhood, or your state. Make a difference this December as we celebrate the birth of our Savior. Be a light.
Feel free to leave your ideas on what we can all do to make a difference. I think I'll give the gift of music and take that special person out to eat.
Jill, My brother suffers from mania--he claims it is NOT bipolar but JUST mania--so I share in your passion to support mental health care.
ReplyDeleteI have a friend who also struggles. Oh, it is SOOOO difficult to understand where mental illness fits into God's plan. But our God transcends my capacity for understanding, and I gain great joy from that!
Patti
Excellent idea, Jill!
ReplyDeleteHi Patti,
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comment.
I don't know how mental illness fits into God's plan either. It's such a REAL problem for the people who have to suffer with it, and for those around them who can only help in certain ways and do the best they can.
I think part of my frustation for my daughter is that it saps so much life potential from her. And the stigma that still remains is incredibly difficult. Maybe someday there will be better ways of finding cures for mental illness. As I tell my friends,"After all, the brain is part of the body."
Hi Niki,
ReplyDeleteGlad you like it!
Hi Sharon,
ReplyDeleteWhat a compliment. Thank you. I'll be in touch.