Grace Within Mental Illness
What do you think when you hear the term “mental illness?” Chances are if you’ve been around enough, you might have a dark, scary, disgusted, or even comedic feeling about it. How often do we use the word “crazy” or “insane” to describe a situation or person? How often are we using mental health conditions as adjectives? If you like your cabinets neat, you might say, “I’m so OCD like that.” Or if your spouse is always in a different mood, you might say, “omg you’re so Bipolar!”
What we fail to remember is that people who have these conditions are human beings. Yes, their brains might not work “normally,” but they want what we all want. Yes, it might be hard on other people, but I can assure you it’s so much more difficult for them. They are fighting against their own mind. These people often feel trapped in a nervous system that is dysregulated from maintaining the numerous demands of daily life. If you give these people the chance, you will notice they are very kind and put so much heart into what they do. Mentally ill people know what it’s like to suffer and they don’t want others to feel like that..
It is time we learn to be mindful of this when we are interacting with these people. It is time that we try to move past these negative stereotypes. Now, this doesn’t mean allowing their conditions to be an excuse, but rather showing some grace and kindness.
And leaders this one is for you. A powerful conversation in YOUR workplace is paramount. Acceptance and understanding are key. As an entrepreneur myself, I understand the importance of profit and productivity. You are running your business to get things done. Mental illness should never be an excuse for employees to sabotage your business. However, we can learn to lead and treat each other with grace. This population has experienced a lot of adversity and struggles in their lives, but it’s never too late to be kind. I think the part that upsets me is many leaders are letting their employees get away with other ridiculous stuff, but these people are still not meeting their potential at work. Give mentally ill people a chance, and you will see the amazing humans beings they are behind that “crazy” stereotype. Let’s make positive change together!
