alostbeautynomore:

Mental illness vs real world

I didn’t realize how different life could be. I got a very overwhelming wake up call.

Being in and or of treatment for over half my life- I guess I never realized how misunderstanding the real world can be toward mental illness. I always knew it was different but until I had to actually had to do what is “normal” It was really upsetting.

In treatmeant: crying is expected and “normal” and tbh crying randomly is also very common.

In the real world: crying is sometimes embarrassing. Kids stare and adults look away. No one quite knows how to respond especially if it’s not caused by a major thing.

In treatment: being tired when having done nothing physically (BUT mentally working like crazy just to keep up) is not only expected but very common.

In the real world: being tired is expected because you have done something exhausting- and to most that means physically. If you say you’ve done nothing but are drained – many assume it’s because you’re lazy.

In treatment: fidgeting is also common. We sit there trying to stay still but we can’t “be present” and not move. So things that keep our hands busy are super important to some.

In the real world: fidgeting is annoying to most. People assume just because I am using a fidget toy or moving my hands in the same rhythm on the table means I am bored when in fact – I am trying very much to stay focused.

There is so much more I can add but need to go so please add your own. Mental illness is real and definitely misunderstood.