News-Record.com

For a nation that has readily available information on mental illness, there is an extreme lack of awareness.

For some individuals with mental illness, it is a never-ending cycle trying to escape or simply minimize the stigma that creates an invisible leash and restricts their social lives and employment opportunities.

Am I saying employ every applicant with mental illness? No. Just like the rest of the population, there is a wide range of personalities and capabilities. However, individuals with mental illness get lumped into one big, negative category.

Employers, give these individuals a chance. The ones who come to you very likely want to better themselves by being productive and increase their chances of living independently. You'll find some very ambitious individuals who want nothing more than what we take for granted and sometimes even despise: our jobs. For those employers who have opened your doors, thank you.

Social life also can be very difficult. Make an effort to greet these individuals; mental illness is not airborne. You can't contract it through a conversation.

May is Mental Health Awareness month and I challenge you to take a few minutes from your schedule to become more aware.

Vue Yang
Greensboro