A recent topic that has received much attention are the stigmas that are created around mental disorders and addiction. The judgment and discrimination that people with disorders receive is inexcusable. We would not chastise someone for a physical health condition, yet we hold people completely responsible for their behavior when they have a mental health condition. It is very important that we continue to push for fair treatment of people with disorders and addictions, and the internet is a primary medium for executing this discussion.
By bringing an awareness of disorders and addictions to the internet community, we are able to greatly increase the speed and the breadth of the circulation of ideas on these matters. By using social media and other websites to share ideas and circulate information on addiction and disorders, the word about fair treatment of people who are struggling with these conditions reaches new ears constantly.
These measures create a presence online that is there to defend the addiction and mental disorder community. The internet has, in many ways, come to serve a watchdog function in society, with the jury and judge being all internet users. Any grave injustice that is taken to the internet is received with scorn for the perpetrator and support for the victim. This is also true for addiction and disorders. Now that a strong online presence is aware that sensitivity and understanding is required for cases of addiction and disorder, the online ethic for tolerance of these matters is stronger.
As we continue to reinforce positive treatment for those who are struggling to practice good mental health, we break down the barriers that are creating stigmas around disorders and addictions. Stigmas are responsible for the destruction of fragile minds, and if we do not fight diligently to bring them down, we could risk losing the battle against mental health problems.