As Mental Illness Awareness Week draws to close, I realize so many more of us are affected by these emotionally devastating issues than we would like to think. It bothers me just how much of our own student population feels like they cannot express their realities without being stigmatized or made to feel less.
Something we do not criticize enough is the use of language our generation deems acceptable. While there are plenty of words that are used incorrectly in our society, I would argue using mental disorders as adjectives tops the list.
“My teacher is so bipolar."
"You look so anorexic!"
"You almost gave me a panic attack."
"Oh my God, she’s so psycho."
"Wow, you’re being retarded.”
How many times have we heard these phrases on a daily basis? We joke about these issues without even being aware of the fact that we are making light of these serious situations.
I know we do not actually mean to offend or disrespect those living with these conditions, but the fact is a classmate or hallmate may be suffering and you really do not know the pain they are going through. It may seem like it is not a big deal, but it really disrespects the impact these conditions have on real people. We are taking people’s experiences and turning them into something that does not accurately reflect the struggles they are facing.
As a generation, we need to become more accountable for the words we use. Try to think about what you say before you say it, because the strength it takes to get through a day while dealing with something so all-consuming is not a joke.
Eun Young Lee
sophomore
off-campus
Oct. 8
