Stepping Out of the Shadows

We are sisters
We hide our sorrows behind strong facades
We keep family secrets
Mental illness isn’t a topic we discuss
We begin to step into the light and share our stories
We are sisters

We hide our child’s truth, we act like all is okay, we refuse to share our heartache, and then we wonder why society doesn’t understand what mental illness looks like.

Nothing will change until every mom who has a mentally ill adult child (MIAC) comes out of the closet of shame.

“Nothing will change until every mom who has a mentally ill adult child (MIAC) comes out of the closet of shame.”

You worry that if others know, your child won’t be able to get a good job. Let’s be realistic, if your child has a severe mental illness, she won’t ever be able to hold job.

You worry what the neighbors might think, but don’t realize they can already see that something isn’t right.

You spend so much time worrying about the implications of others knowing your family secret that you fail to recognize that your lack of sharing perpetuates society’s misunderstanding.

• Your story will lead to understanding.

• Your sharing will release stigma.

• Your voice will put a face to mental illness.

• Your advocacy will create better care.

I’m not ashamed to share my son’s story. By doing so I help other moms feel less alone. I also educate people who have never seen mental illness firsthand. By speaking up, I open the space to create dialogue.

If my son had diabetes I would advocate for earlier diagnosis.

Why should it be any different with mental illness?

If I can do it, you can too.

Let go of the shame. Step out of the shadows and be your child’s voice.

Together we can help combat the stigmas about mental illness.

Just for today:

I will stop hiding.

I will create awareness of this tragedy.

I will use my story to quell misunderstanding.

I will focus on my own health and well-being.