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Mental illness is not something we acquire by choice, yet it becomes a stigma upon our existence. People from all walks of life encounter psychological issues due to varying reasons; there is no particular age or circumstance. Some people are able to overcome mental disorders without professional help, while others cannot. Whatever the case, a person’s mental illness should not become their definition or identity. Unfortunately, when people hear of a mental disorder, they perceive it as ‘madness’ or an abnormality. In reality, most people with mental illnesses are normal human beings whose intellectual capabilities are not compromised in any way.

Mental Illness and Lifestyle
The stigma of mental illness tends to interfere with a person’s personal, professional, and social life. When people around you learn of your mental illness, their attitude towards you shifts. Some might become overly sympathetic, while others might use the information to ridicule you. Your parents may become overprotective, your partner could get frustrated, and family members and friends may act extra cautious in your company. People might hesitate to invite you to social gatherings or involve you in casual conversations.
It is like everyone is afraid of triggering a panic attack, hurting your feelings, or making you feel uncomfortable. The special treatment can be overwhelming and it often comes in the way of you feeling normal or having a good time. Individuals with a mental illness have a hard time blending in and developing intimate relationships.

Mental Illness and Education
Even though your mental illness may not affect your ability to learn and study at school, the stigma can still affect your education. Your school’s educational faculty may deem you as a student with special needs. They might consider you unfit for continuing education at their institution or sitting in the same classroom as ‘regular’ pupils. Being isolated or cornered at school is a massive blow to one’s self esteem. The student suffering from the mental illness may experience an inferiority complex, which becomes an obstacle to succeeding in life. Mocking and bullying from classmates can further deteriorate their condition.
Not having the privilege to obtain a normal education can narrow down career options and diminish opportunities to be creative. Many people are under the impression that being around a mentally ill person is dangerous, and potentially life threatening in some cases. Individuals are not able to pursue higher education because their mental illness becomes the reason for rejected college applications.

Mental Illness and Business/Employment
Whether a person runs their own business of works for somebody else, their mental illness raises concerns. An employer may not consider you for a high post or managerial position; a promotion will likely be denied, regardless of your performance at work. Colleagues may pity you and even resort to making fun of you. Working in such a negative environment hikes stress levels and thriving becomes impossible. You can expect recruiters to prefer a less qualified candidate over you just because they are unsure of what your condition implicates.
Managing your business while living with a mental illness is no easy task. Employees, clients, and other business personnel you interact with may take advantage of your vulnerabilities. If your company encounters a loss of undergoes business litigation, people won’t think twice before blaming it on your mental condition.

Author Bio
John Adams is a lifestyle blogger who concentrates on health, fitness, and self-development. He encourages readers to fight their fears and overcome obstacles holding them back. He believes that every person can improve the quality of his/her life by thinking positive and making better choices. He loves to share his insight on life experiences, and contributes on various online platforms in the same niche. He can be contacted at healthnic1@gmail.com