Less stigma, more compassion still needed around mental illness

To the editor,

We have come so far since those pioneers first chose to speak out about their mental health conditions. Mike Wallace, the television news reporter, spoke openly about his depression. Josh Logan, the storied American director and producer, penned an autobiography about his manic and depressive phases, which concluded with his introduction to the mood stabilizer lithium carbonate. These people were way out in front. Who could have imagined that the day would come when a new anti-schizophrenia medication would be advertised on a nationally broadcast sporting event, and when a national free mental health phone service would be available 24/7.

Still, I wonder whether there is room for development in our country’s treatment of the mentally ill. Some illnesses, including bipolar disorder and major depression, may be discussed and even accepted. The terrible difficulties experienced by soldiers and others attempting to recover from emotional trauma, it seems to me, are also given at least some degree of understanding. But might there be other forms of mental illness, including narcissistic personality disorder, that are treatable, but so scorned by our culture, that the help available goes disregarded?

The underlying reality remains. The human mind is an extraordinarily powerful and complex organ. Things can go wrong. When treatment is available, we do everyone a disservice by treating such ailments with disdain. Perhaps a little more compassion would help.

JOSH GREENFIELD