Member-only story
My Mental Illness is a Problem for Men
More than it’s a problem for me.
I have anxiety issues. I have trauma issues. I have bouts of depression.
I have…accepted these things about myself. I fought it for a long time…as a “phase” or as something temporary. As something to be rejected.
Now, I understand that I have to work with myself and my own mind. And for the most part, others accepted it, too. I don’t have to explain why I don’t want to go to movies or have balloons at my birthday party. I don’t even really have to explain why…I don’t want parties. I state my preferences and, for the most part, they’re respected.
Except when a cishet man is involved.
Then, instead of being a person to be accepted, I am a thing to be fixed.
- The belittling approach
“How could you have mental health issues? You’re too pretty for that.”
Something I have literally actually heard. Ah yes, because I am desirable, my mental health is an obstacle.
We see this over and over again in different ways. The independent woman has to change her mind so the guy can get the girl in the end. The “crazy” girl is hot but…not good for a relationship. So the only way around this is for the girl to be…not crazy.
