Mental Health and Abuse – Week 4

May was Mental Health Awareness Month, and June 1 was Narcissistic Abuse Awareness Day. Dealing with an abusive relationship is incredibly difficult. Add a mental illness, and it’s nearly impossible to truly disconnect and heal. What makes mental illness different? In addition to “hiding” the truth about the abuse, the victim often experiences an additional level of guilt or responsibility because the abuser with a mental illness “can’t help it”. While this may be true on some level, that doesn’t make it the victim’s fault or responsibility, just like in any other abusive relationship. If you know someone or ARE someone that is experiencing abuse from a person with a mental illness, there is hope. As mentioned in a previous post, it is not easy. You can set boundaries. You can start to find yourself again. You can begin to understand that your abusers’ problems are not your fault or responsibility. Reach Out Speak Out is here. We have people who understand what you are experiencing and can help. We are all working through something we need help with. Reach out to your friends, family or people you trust to get that boost and start making the little changes that can shape a better future for you now!