The Stigma

THE STIGMA

Dare you open up, and talk, or does the stigma, rule the way,
it's time to stand together, feeling stronger, every day.
To many go through turmoil, alone, where no-one sees,
Tears flow like rivers, pain bringing you, to your knees.

Sometimes, it's all to easy, to, not want, to understand,
How grief consumes your body, like sinking in the sand.
The stigma, is born of fear, not knowing what to say,
So, we need to help each other, send the stigma on it's way.

Mental health, needs recognition, it's casualties on the rise,
Education aids progression, in opening all our eyes.
If the stigma is not broken, ignorance, remains a threat,
And, one more person suffers, the cycle is reset.

Suicide increases, and there's, heartache left behind,
Those, who are then, grieving, lost inside their mind.
People share opinion, of why they're in despair,
But, Not always, stepping forward, showing that they care.

Action, is what's needed, sufferers, free to find,
Help that is, essential, their options not confined.
Those with predilections, of what mental health entails,
Justify the stigma, and so progression fails.

Mental health is not contagious, nor the grief, it may define,
The stigma is the danger, if unable to decline.
Change can only happen, by taking up the cause,
Acceptance and prevention, reviewing existing laws.

Let's take the opportunity, to show we really care,
Support, reach out and listen and, try to be aware.
Discuss, and share experiences, educate, prevent,
Mental health needs recognition, reduce stigma with intent.

By
Lyn Mcphee
(Survivor of bereavement due to suicide)