10/10/2025
Breaking the Stigma🙏: Mental Health Is Health
World Mental Health Day — October 10, 2025
Today, on World Mental Health Day, we are reminded not only of the importance of mental well-being but also of the persistent stigma that continues to surround it. While society has made progress in raising awareness, harmful perceptions and stereotypes still prevent countless individuals from seeking the help they need.
The Weight of Stigma
In many communities around the world, mental illness is still whispered about, hidden behind closed doors, or outright denied. People struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or schizophrenia are often labeled as "weak," "crazy," or "unstable." This language is not only dismissive — it’s dangerous. It silences people who are suffering. It pushes them into isolation. And in some cases, it can be life-threatening.
One of the most damaging beliefs is the idea that seeing a psychiatrist is only for “pagal” — a derogatory term in many South Asian cultures used to describe someone who is insane. This mindset prevents people from viewing mental health professionals as what they truly are: doctors trained to treat an essential part of human health.
Imagine telling someone with a broken leg not to go to the hospital because "only weak people need help." It sounds absurd, doesn’t it? But that’s exactly what we do when we shame people for seeking therapy or psychiatric care.
Not for “Psycho People” — For People Who Need Healing
Another dangerous belief is:
> “Psychiatric medication is only for psycho people.”
This stigma is incredibly harmful. It stops people from getting help. It turns a legitimate medical treatment into something shameful.
Here’s the truth:
Psychiatric medications are for anyone facing mental health challenges — not just for those with severe conditions.
People take these medications to manage anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, and more. Just like we take medicine for diabetes or high blood pressure.
Mental illness is not a personality flaw. It’s a health condition — and medication is one way of managing it.
Taking psychiatric medication doesn’t make you “crazy.”
It means you are taking steps toward healing.
Just like someone with asthma uses an inhaler, or someone with migraines takes pain relief, a person with mental illness may need medication to feel well and live fully.
We must stop associating treatment with shame.
The Reality of Mental Health
Mental health is not a luxury — it’s a necessity. Every person has mental health, just like they have physical health. At some point, nearly everyone experiences stress, sadness, grief, or anxiety. Some people face more severe conditions that require long-term care. None of this should be shameful.
Here’s the truth:
Going to a therapist or psychiatrist means you are taking care of yourself.
Taking prescribed medication means you are managing your health.
Talking about your struggles is a sign of strength, not weakness.
What Needs to Change
1. Education: We must teach children and adults alike that mental health is just as important as physical health. Schools, workplaces, and media all have a role in normalizing these conversations.
2. Language: Let’s stop using words like “pagal,” “psycho,” and “mental” as insults. Our words shape perceptions — and ultimately, reality.
3. Support: If someone confides in you about their mental health, don’t judge or dismiss them. Listen. Be kind. Encourage them to seek professional help if needed.
4. Visibility: The more people openly talk about their therapy journeys, medication, or struggles, the more we normalize these experiences for others.
A Call to Empathy
On this World Mental Health Day, let’s make a collective promise:
To stop shaming those who are fighting silent battles.
To stop equating psychiatric care with madness.
To stop mocking those who take medication for their mental health.
Instead, let’s listen, support, educate, and uplift. Because healing begins where stigma ends.
🧠 Mental health matters. So do the people who live with it every day.
💚 Let’s end the stigma — together.
