Mental Illness Doesn’t Decriminate
This week, I want to discuss a topic that is heavy on my mind. It’s a topic that I feel needs to be shared and to have awareness. Our society has become heavily divided. It has become “us against them” with almost any topic. We are constantly in debate of what separates us, whether it be race, religion, class, or gender. While demographics do have an impact on the experiences of people, we have to remember that mental illness doesn’t discriminate.
Mental illness can impact anyone in every area of life. Of course, factors such as trauma, racial oppression, poverty, and environmental triggers can exacerbate it, but anyone can develop these issues. However, we have to be ready to understand and support people you would never think would struggle.
Let’s talk about socioeconomic status and mental health. In 2025, many still think “rich people can’t struggle.” We’ve been conditioned to believe that if people have money, that it will protect them from struggling with their mental health. But the truth is sometimes the most successful people are struggling in silence. People with money are struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, and suicidal thoughts. Often these people are under a lot of pressure and stress to keep up with their status and image and feel like getting help will make them look “weak.” Therapy is expensive, which can cause frustration for those who need but can’t afford it. However, this doesn’t mean we should ignore the fact that wealthy people still may not receive adequate care. And even if they do receive care, mental illness is an ongoing battle that deserves compassion regardless of your socioeconomic status.
People can have all the money, love, family, friends and accomplishments in the world and still struggle. It is our job to validate their feelings and show up for them. Take time to listen to your friends who are down on their luck and the shining stars. Listen to people in your life who are struggling even if they seem to “have it all.” Remind them help is always available. It is so important to remember that mental health isn’t a result of weakness but rather a brain difference. Mental illness must be treated like any illness because that's what it is. Let’s work together to spread awareness and show support for people of all walks of life who struggle with their mental health. This may be an invisible illness, but it doesn’t mean we need to close our eyes to it. Let’s work together to bring positive change in our communities and society around this!
