The stigma of being mentally ill is potentially more damaging than the majority of mental illnesses. Societal acceptance of mentally ill individuals is a long way off. This guide is how to cope until individuals can truly be accepted for who they are.


Steps

1. Put into place social "Damage Control". If you've just been released from a psychiatric hospital, you may find that people in your social circles treat you a bit differently. They might see you as fragile--they might avoid you altogether. Therefore, you should educate your family and friends about your disorder. To deal with those who have not heard of your illness, see step #2.
2. Omit mention of your illness in conversation. This rule is very, very important. Do not stigmatize yourself any more than you already are; this means not telling strangers, teachers, bosses, about your hospitalization. Keep this information guarded not because it is something that you should be ashamed of, but rather because the large majority of the populous does not understand psychiatric ailments.
3. Move on. Put the illness in your past. Move on with your life and don't recall your checkered past any more than is necessary.

Tips

• Reintegrating oneself into life after a psychiatric hospitalization is a stressful event. Consider taking up stress reduction techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation or meditation.
• While it has been suggested to selectively omit portions of your past, do what you think is right. If you wish to campaign for the recognition and acceptance of mentally ill persons, go for it.
• Stay strong. It's a hard route to go, but many people have gone from psychiatric hospitals to lead productive and successful lives.

Warnings

• Suicidal ideation is a serious matter. Please seek immediate help; http://suicidehotlines.com/ has a list of hotlines available for crises.
• Violent fantasies, if they pertain to you, should be discussed with a health care professional.
• Beware of alcohol and other psychoactive substances. Many of these can severely reduce inhibitions, and suicides/suicide attempts are highly correlated with their use.