MENTAL HEALTH: THE STIGMA REMAINS UNTIL NOW

 

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        In the society that we live in , there are so many stigmas surrounding several issues that  are still present up to this day. These stigmas not only affect certain individuals but are also hindering humanity from progression. People belonging in the Marginalized Sector have been suffering from these Stigmas from then until now; one of which is the Stigma surrounding Mental Health.

       It is not a secret that Mental Health has been one of the hottest topics in the new normal. This is because of the impact of the pandemic to each individual's lives and has truly awakened even some of the non-believers of the importance of Mental and Emotional Health to everyone.

        However, despite the rise of acknowledgement and the increasing supporters, it seems that the Stigma surrounding such issue still continues up to this time. Just recently, there has been a teaser poster of a movie that was released here in the Philippines entitled "Tililing" which was a movie focused on Mental Health. Although the movie's intention is good but the teaser poster itself is somehow opposite to the objectives of the movie where it contains many elements that could possibly fuel and ignite the surrounding Stigma of Mental Health.

        For some, this may be something that doesn't need much attention (After all it's just a simple poster right?). However, for others this situation can result to so many factors that could worsen the surrounding Stigma of Mental Health. As we all know, we have this pre-conceived notion in our society where we don't usually care and pay attention to matters that are different from what is normal and Mental Health is sadly one of them (for now).

    Therefore, it's very necessary for each and everyone of us to be warriors of the underrepresented and stand firm to destigmatized the surrounding issues of Mental Health. Even as simple as calling out any unwanted behavior and actions about the matter could really help a lot to create a Safe Space especially to those who are going through tough mental health challenges.

        Indeed, it's very unfortunate that we still experience these negative circumstances even in this time and age. As much as we want to celebrate for our small victories, the fact still remains that are battle is not over yet. However, as we live and breathe every single day in this world showcases that there is still hope for us to overcome even the darkest of times and to achieve a world full of positivity and free of discrimination.