The perspective that 12 yrs brings.

[Tobin S.]

1. People usually do not readily know it when you have a mental illness.

There is no outward difference that tells people that you have autism and I have bipolar disorder. It may be so in extreme cases, but for most of us, we view the world through the prism of our abnormal states of consciousness in silence. We may be a bit odd or a little eccentric, but people don't think of us as having any real problems when it comes to our brains.

You have to be very strong if you are going to wear that disease on your shirt sleeve. Those who do are worthy of the greatest respect.

The underlying problem to the whole deal is ignorance. Education of the general population is the key to mentally ill people breaking through the barriers that hinder their progress. All I think I can do is tell people how it really is. Some of us have a greater platform than others, but each of us has it within our power to enlighten people on the subject.

If you choose to stay silent on the issue, I certainly don't blame you- that's for those of us who don't have the desire to speak out on the issue. It's certainly an easier path to follow in many ways.