Are you wearing any of these colors today?
It was brought to my attention by Manic Muses’ Post.
The statistics are sobering. Per NIMH, 26.2% of American adults are afflicted with a mental illness. (I only use the term mental illness when referring to symptoms causing significant dysfunction correlated to a diagnosis). That is more than one in four! In addition, 1 in 17 live with a serious mental illness. So, I’m not a 10. I’m actually a 17. Chances are, if you’re reading this, you are too.
Those statistics are compiled from census data. That means, people who were already diagnosed. Can you imagine the numbers if the people who are falling through cracks had a head count?
I’m at work, wearing my silver sweater and my green t-shirt today. I have love written on both of my arms over the beaten path of scars past. I will be happy to explain if I am asked directly. I am taking my first baby steps out of the shadows. Because, it breaks my heart too much to see people fall through the cracks because they lost their voice.
I have a voice. From this point forward, I vow to use it. Not just for me, but for everyone who is struggling too.
Why should I hide when the numbers are so big? Chances are someone may whisper, “Me too.
As the Pendulum Swings 
PTSD here yay.
Military vet? My father is a Vietnam Vet. There is a very special place in my heart for Veterans and their families.
I am so proud of you, Lulu. And you might be surprised at how much louder that “Me too” comes out than a whisper. 😉
The sound is only as loud as the voices are collectively.
Go, Lulu! Does wearing all silver jewelery count? 🙂
I have a friend whom I’ve known for the better part of 15 years. Today, I finally told him I am Bipolar.
You bring out a good point about the stats not being accurate. I’ve lied on my census data all my life. No more. Time to stand up and be counted.
Oh! And thanks for the pingback!!
Oh and yes. Gratitious amounts of silver jewelry count.
No problem on the pingback. You were absolutely the spark of this blaze!
I’ve never lied on any of my census data. But that was 2004, and I was diagnosed in 2009. So I’m not in that head count.
That was such a beautiful post! You are an amazing woman!
Thank you!