This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Bryant chapter.

Mental Health Awareness Week was the first full week of October, reminding us all of those affected by mental illness. Here are a few things to keep in mind all year round, not just during this month of awareness.

1)Mental illness is no different than physical illness

Just because you can’t see a mental illness like you can see a broken bone, doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist, hurt, and need medical attention.

2) Just because someone has a mental illness does not make them “crazy”

Stereotypes of mental illness can be some of the harshest our society places. Think before you use terms like “crazy” and “psycho”.

3) Patience is key

We know- dealing with someone who’s always sad, always freaking out about seemingly nothing, or someone whose mood can change in the blink of an eye can be a lot. No doubt, having a friend or loved one who is mentally ill requires a lot of work, patience and understanding. But just know how much it means to that person that you’re there, supportive and understanding. It really does mean the world, and even if they don’t say it, thank you.

4) No one asks for a mental illness

No, they are not doing this for attention, for medicine, or for someone to feel bad for them. No one voluntarily has anxiety attacks, depression, or bipolar episodes. It wasn’t their choice to be like this.

5) Mental illnesses are not adjectives

“You’re so bipolar”, “This was the worst day ever I’m literally so depressed”, “I’m going to have a panic attack about this test right now”…. If you only knew what those things really were. Try to think about what it actually means before you throw sayings like that around.

6) Be open minded

If someone confides in you that they’re struggling, that shows how much they value you as a friend. Be there for them and try not to judge before you hear them out.

7) Mental illness doesn’t discriminate; neither should you.

Don’t think it couldn’t happen to you- mental illness can, and does, affect every walk of life. Just because you’re blessed enough to not be affected, does not mean you should discriminate against those who aren’t as lucky.

8) It is not “all in their head”

Telling someone who’s depressed “just move on, be happy”, or someone with OCD “it’s fine just leave it alone” is basically telling someone with a cast “oh just take it off it’s not even broken”. There are biological and physiological components to mental illness too. So those pills they take every day? They actually balance chemicals in the brain, they’re not just for a placebo effect.

9) Think before you get upset

They don’t mean to freak out on you, be sad all the time, or take a little longer to do most things. People with mental illness feel bad for the people they affect, and they appreciate your understanding and patience more than anything. If someone says something during an episode, chances are they don’t mean it.

10) Don’t forget!

Just because mental health awareness week passed this year, doesn’t mean these aren’t everyday issues! Help spread awareness, be a supporter, and help fight the stigma of mental illness. You could save someone’s life with just a simple “How are you?”

For more resources,

Suicide Helpline – 1 (800) 273-8255

Crisis Call Center – 800-273-8255

Depression and Bipolar Support – 800-273-TALK (8255)

NAMI Helpline National Alliance for the Mentally Ill – 1-800-950-NAMI

Bryant University Services – Department of Counseling Services – (401) 232-6045

Image Sources:

http://soxndwordz.blogspot.com/2014/04/romanticizing-mental-illness.htm

http://yourveryfavoritelibrarian.tumblr.com/post/131002917438

www.yes-butno.tumblr.com

http://theodysseyonline.com/gsu/end-stigma-mental-health-disorders/107513

http://leewolfeblum.com/?p=1529