Storytelling Is Shifting Attitudes About Mental Health

Understanding mental illness has been a struggle individuals have had to grapple with for centuries. Today, however, we see mental illness in a completely different light. The removal of outdated treatments and the continual work towards ending stigmas surrounding mental health are on the rise. Memoirs, personal essays, and accurate depictions of mental illness in film have helped society reflect on what it means to live with mental illnesses. These strategies of using storytelling have helped develop a cultural shift in shaping more positive attitudes about mental illness and gaining the help that is needed. Women, in particular, have been at the forefront of this shift. Not only does storytelling help educate individuals on mental health, but it also provides a variety of critical benefits. Sharing one's story about their struggle benefits not only the individual, but their audience as well. These personal depictions have helped individuals feel less isolated, thus encouraging treatment. Encouraging the notion that mental illness is not a battle you have to hide or fight on your own can make a significant impact on those in need of help. As a culture, we still have work to do to end the stigmas about mental health, but storytelling has become a core component of the mental health movement. The continuing of this is vital for the overall improvement of society and those who have a mental illness.