Overcoming Self-Stigma
The stigma of mental illness is the direct and indirect discrimination against individuals living with a diagnosis. The stigma of mental illness is ingrained in people's beliefs based on myths and misconceptions.
What does self-stigma sound like?
How do you view yourself? How can you accept yourself after the diagnosis? Self-stigma happens when an individual directs shame, guilt and negative perceptions inward from the stigmatizing viewpoint of society at large. This self-stigma is based on other people's miseducation and beliefs about people with mental health challenges. For example, self-stigma might look like a long list of "I can'ts." For example, "I can't ever go to work because I have a diagnosis." Self-stigma worsens when an individual chooses not to combat the impact of stigma and negative self-talk.
How my self acceptance grew
I believe self-awareness and approval is the antidote for controlling self-stigma. Since 2007, I've been in recovery. Over the years, I've gained insight and acceptance of myself. Embracing my life and wellness plans despite the seemingly "scary" diagnosis of schizophrenia. Living a fulfilling life with schizophrenia is possible - I'm the evidence.
To get to my level of a positive mental health attitude I've educated myself on ways to manage. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) plays a significant role in helping me combat self-stigmatizing beliefs. Through their support groups and free workshops I've acquired knowledge on how to cope with my schizophrenia and such from a peer's perspective.
Finding support
Peer support teaches me how to look at recovery. Recovery is a lifestyle. It can be a positive experience based on your efforts and outlook. Through peer encouragement I continue to thrive at my wellbeing. I'm surrounded by role models and have support from people who understand my challenges and can empathize.
In addition to giving and getting peer support I have my own tight-knit support network. These loved ones know my routines, strengths, and obstacles. Since they know me well they understand my challenges and know my capabilities. Therefore, they take on the role as my accountability partners in recovery at working towards my goals.
Meditation and affirmations
Other ways I've defeated self-doubt is by meditating on positive messages and practicing reciting affirmations. Most days I listen to motivational speakers to boost my energy and focus. This helps me deliver positive outcomes at work and in my personal life. When I'm challenged with poor thoughts such as giving away my power to the thought that I can't do something. I reflect on uplifting messages and repeat saying things such as the Eric Thomas anthem: "We can. We will. We must." Whenever I say this phrase my attitude shifts and I glide into tunnel vision and positive language and action plans.
My self-care rituals incorporate affirmations and confidence-boosting activities. I reaffirm myself by engaging in self-motivating agendas. Every day I record my wellness routine and completed work tasks in a journal. I call this journal my Realistic Journal. It's a checklist of duties I've done for the day. Opposed to reflecting solely on a Things to Do List I keep my Realistic Journal. By keeping track of accomplished tasks it propels me forward to stay focused on my projects. Also, my personal wellness routine includes exercise. I take short brisk walks to transition my mindset.
Fighting self-stigma every day
I am overcoming self-stigma by staying active in my daily self-care rituals. I validate myself every day. Self-stigma is real but also manageable. Keep striving at recovery and continue to grow with a healthy mindset and focus on goals. Next time when you think of reciting: "I can't." Instead, say you can and continue to press forward."