Dear Editor,
Narcissism and issues surrounding the Mental health of our population has always been swept under the carpet until clear cut cases surface and we all run to complain about poor mental health care and the approach to correct same. For decades we have associated mental health as a disease that only those who walk the road aimlessly or gather their meals from nearby garbage receptacles suffer from.
The terms bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, narcissistic personality disorder are terms we associate with more developed countries, making them alien to us, when in reality, many within our population are suffering from. It becomes funny when the behavioural pattern of some are exposed but cry when lives are taken by suicide. The paradoxical approach of our society to issues of this nature is alarming and it seems that we can never get it right.
Our human resources (especially the youth) are slowly finding themselves behind bars, or in graves, because of their mental state. No one wants to listen and hardly anyone wants to approach relevant institutions and experts for help, because of possible public shaming. During this time victims continue to suffer, some in silence while others create havoc for those close to them; but please, let’s not confuse persons who are really mentally affected with those who are narcissists. Careful studies and conversations with leading psychologists on the topic of narcissism have revealed that victims of narcissistic abuse also become so manipulated that they themselves develop poor mental health thus making them vulnerable. So what’s the purpose of this piece?
Put simply, it’s an appeal to everyone: the family, the church and every other social institution, friends, coworkers, social media, to collaboratively work as a network, to promote mental health, to form support groups to protect victims from the endurance of manipulations and narcissistic abuse and to understand that the narrative of brilliance, beauty, popularity and a good occupation has nothing to do with the mental strength or capacity of an individual.
On the inside many of us are weak, and are looking for a friend, a confidant, a strong support group, to overcome. The pain is real whether one is affected by poor mental health or has become a victim of abuse, help is needed now!
Sincerely,
Atika Stephens
