I wrote this poem about the thoughts that I had and continue to struggle with when I think about getting help for mental illness. I wrote this thinking about all the stories I’ve heard where people don’t think a therapist will help. This poem is a manifestation of my experiences and the testimonies of the people around me.
Stigma
My mind is full of self doubt
Doubt if I can do it
If I can succeed in a world where all the cards are stacked against me
Somehow I get back up
Back up on my feet
People say “Just stop worrying”
And I would if I could
But it’s not up to me
And believe me when I say
When you find someone who listens
Not judging you for the chemical imbalance of your mind
It means more than you can imagine
To be heard
To be seen as you are not what they think you are
In a world that says to not talk about it
In a world that says that you’re alone
Don’t believe it
In a world so dark
Be the light
In a world that says suppress your emotions if you want to be a success
Show them you don’t need to change
In a world that says you shouldn’t be different
Dare to step outside the box
Dare to be different
And until this happens
The stigma won’t fall