This woman just explained why having a mental illness doesn't mean you're a failure and it's perfect

In recent years, there have been many strides forwards in the general perception of mental health, which has resulted in a reduction of stigma, and an increase in understanding.

However, we still have a long way to go, especially when it comes to the workplace.

Recent statistics show that one in six British workers were affected by a mental health issue in the past year, however 2017 poll showed that a shocking 40 per cent of the Scottish population thought that revealing a mental health affliction would jeopardise their career.

In the poll, 42 per cent of the 2,000 people asked by the Mental Health Foundation said that they'd rather tell their employer that they had a physical illness like a stomach bug than reaveal they were taking time off for their mental health. Further, a shocking nine per cent of respondents said that they'd experienced abuse at work because of their mental illness.

This woman, however, is working to combat preconceptions, especially around the fact that those suffering from a mental health issue can't be productive at work.

Taking to the social media site Twitter, she countered this claim in an excellent string of tweets.

Opening her thread, she wrote:

Mental health stigma is conflating someone’s productivity and success with their mental wellness. There’s lots of successful and productive people who struggle with mental health.

She then continued:

I personally have anxiety, depression, and ADHD.

I also struggle with PTSD from being raped and the traumatic arrest I endured at the Alton Sterling protest in 2016.

I also run a nonprofit and have a book coming out soon.

One doesn’t negate the other.

Several other people then added to the thread, sharing how many creative, successful people have suffered with mental health issues.

Others pressed home that having a bad spell of mental health doesn't mean you're 'unsuccessful'.

Some suggested that removing the pressure of 'high productivity' would be beneficial.

While for others, knowing they weren't alone gave them comfort.

HT Someecards

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