Reduce the stigma surrounding
mental “diversity” by…

1.  Recognizing organizations, which authentically understand and embrace “diversity.”  Authentic diversity must represent those with visible AND invisible differences, and “include” employees at all levels…whether entry-level, professional, or managerial, as well as senior executives, who have fought to climb to the top of the corporate ladder…despite their unique struggles with mental “disorders.”

2.  Enlightening organizations about the hidden challenges employees face, and revealing how these difficulties can impact the entire organization.

3.  Demonstrating the prevalence of mental “disorders.”  Encouraging a society, where every individual feels “safe” to request the workplace accommodations necessary to maximize their productivity, and reach their full potential.  Encouraging “human” rights.

4.  Reinforcing the importance of preventative medicine, exploring the changes companies are making, and recognizing the impact these initiatives have had on the promotion of mental health throughout society.

5.  Educating communities about the facts; what mental “illness” is, and what it is NOT; acknowledging the controversial line between the “haves,” and “have nots;” illustrating that a mental disorder can affect any one at any time for any (or no obvious) reason at all; and reinforcing that Mental “illness” IS a PHYSICAL disability.

The impact of mental illness is likely to multiply, as Baby Boomers with limited resources for medical treatment continue to age, and more “educated” children with special needs…accustomed to receiving accommodations, enter the workforce.

Research indicates that about 75% of cases of low-grade depression (not yet diagnosable as a mental disorder) will devolve into full-blown major depression, if these cases are NOT recognized and arrested.  People who are depressed have four times the risk of heart disease, and almost six times the risk of dying after a cardiac event than people who are not depressed.

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Illnesses, such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, lupus, Crohn’s disease, colitis, chronic fatigue, stroke, and cardiovascular disease, frequently lead to mental disorders (especially depression and anxiety).

Physical Body Disorder
⇓
Physical Brain Disorder

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AND Vice Versa

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Brain (Mental) disorders often contribute to the development of other (physical) diseases; such as stroke, obesity, heart attacks, back pain, stomach pain, headaches, etc.

Physical Brain Disorder
⇓
Physical Body Disorder

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 Mental Illness can happen to anybody!

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Please join us by completing our survey, as we strive to…

1. shed light on the prevalence of mental “disorders” in the workplace;
2. fight the stigma of mental illness;
3. reduce the odds of suicide;
4. give those who struggle hope for the future.

After completing our survey, please invite friends, colleagues, family members, and those you have met (in local support groups, around town, at work, at school, online, or anywhere else you can imagine) to complete our survey as well.
ANONYMOUS SURVEY

Be Counted! Illuminate Mental Diversity at Work.
There is safety (AND strength) in numbers. “All for one, and one for all.”

Suggestions, feedback, comments, and questions welcomed at MindingDiversity@aol.com

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© October 2015