A stigma, yes or no?
As someone who struggles with anxiety, depression and O.C.D. I find mental health becoming more and more important to discuss. I know what I go through, the question is how much of the world sees and understands what people with these afflictions endure?
Someone who suffers from a mental health disorder usually deals with a multitude of other issues. Things like disrupted sleeping patterns, social and communication challenges, unorganized thoughts, loss of appetite, mood swings and uncontrollable emotions/irritability, lack of energy or enthusiasm & interest, or even compulsive habits.
This doesn’t include the symptoms experienced and side effects from the medication taken. Or how each of those affect their daily life.
You would think that people who cry out for attention and post depressing statuses on social media would be more likely to harm others or themselves. Or are they?
Some people who suffer from these afflictions and disorders don’t even show signs, their life and subsequent behavior are all normal. On the inside they are in pain.
If you know someone who struggles with a mental health disorder or depression, the best thing you can do is be there. Be present in their life and remind them you care.
Should this change your view of them being a gun owner?
People are beginning to talk about mental health and gun ownership. I myself think that’s a hard topic to discuss. Veterans like my father use hunting and marksmanship as a tool to overcome their P.T.S.D.
I think we need to consider if labeling mental health a gun violence problem isn’t stigmatizing the general population into picking sides resulting in a positive or negative decision surrounding firearms law and regulations.
I fear it will become something big brother regulates and uses as a tool to restrict us from owning and purchasing firearms in the near future.