Overcoming Stigma: A Mental Health Journey

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With nearly half of all Americans suffering from severe mental disorders not seeking help, it is evident that mental disorders often come with a stigma. In It’s Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini, narrator Craig Gilner suffers from an unfortunate disease that dictates his life. He struggles with many symptoms alongside this and faces depression with suicidal ideation. However, Craig makes a brave decision to check himself into the psych ward of the hospital nearby instead of killing himself. It is his temporary home with limited visitation from his friends and family. Craig’s initial alienation turns into an experience that ultimately saves his life by helping him learn how to live on his own terms and resolves his problems differently; He …show more content…

A character he learns a major lesson from is Bobby, the first patient he meets. Bobby is like his father figure within the ward to Craig, he tells him about the life he lived and the mistakes he’s made. Despite negative aspects to his life, Characters like Bobby would “do so much” just to be Craig for a day and have what he has. Bobby’s real life encounters compared to Craig’s help him realize his luck and makes him become more appreciative of what he has (Vizzini 257). Craig saw only the negative in much of his life. With the help of Bobby in particular, he is able to see past that and realize that he has a lot of redeeming qualities and potential. A story of hope and high expectations is to follow for both characters, showing a happy ending is a matter of the actions and will of a character. Yet his self realization is not the only factor in his happy ending. At the psych ward, Craig meets Noelle. As two damaged people, the bond over the span of Craig’s short-lived stay and help brighten the experience. Even the simplest thing such as sitting next to her evokes the sensation that he is “the happiest of them all” (Vizzini 433). The love Craig finds is the final piece needed to change his life. With a new interest in art, a developed sense of appreciation, and a love interest helps Craig put his life back

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