Imagine There Was No Stigma to Mental Illness | Dr. Jeffrey Lieberman | TEDxCharlottesville

Dr. Jeffrey Lieberman, Professor and Chair of Psychiatry at Columbia University and past President of the American Psychiatric Association, envisions that breaking down the barrier which arises from our stigmatizing mental health would result in better treatment for millions of individuals.
Jeffrey Lieberman has devoted his life to the study and treatment of mental illness. He has passionately advocated for more research and better treatment of people with mental illness, and contributed to mental health care policy and legislation including the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act and Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act. Dr. Lieberman is Professor and Chair of Psychiatry at Columbia University, Psychiatrist-in-Chief at New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Director of the New York State Psychiatric Institute and past President of the American Psychiatric Association. Dr. Lieberman has authored over than 500 scientific articles and written or edited 12 books on mental illness and psychiatry, including the critically acclaimed Shrinks: The Untold Story of Psychiatry (Little Brown 2015).
This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at ted.com/tedx

[@Zanyotaku]

I remember when I was 15, I would go home and obsessively study because I was so terrified of failure I cried every day. I stopped talking to my friends and. I was called a "perfectionist" 16, I literally ran away in the middle of a piano recital and locked myself in a bathroom stall for an hour. "Stage fright" 17, I would run to the bathroom to throw up and cry in terror over class presentations. Again it was "stage fright" 18, after moving to college I began suffering regular panic attacks. "Just nerves" and "homesick" 19, and one of those panic attacks hit me in the middle of a biology lecture. And I had been so used to calling it other names I actually didn't believe my professor when she took me aside and asked me about my anxiety. And now I can't stop wondering: why didn't anyone tell me sooner?

[@canizlupuzcanizlupuz]

I hope you get better. Thank you for sharing and good luck in the future!

[@evacody1249]

Because people don't want to take the time to really learn about mental illness.

[@user-id1ts2xo2u]

I tend to agree with this statement

[@johnmay9394]

That’s not mental illness it’s called getting nervous

[@carolinemcguire6224]

I totally feel you. I've had panic disorder symptoms for 8 long years. That's 8 years of having panic attacks and nobody, parents, friends, family, ever thought anything was wrong, or never said anything. After so much time reinforcing and trying to cope alone with the attacks, it's very severe and extremely difficult to face, especially now that I've developed agoraphobia. After 8 years of suffering and being held back by anxiety, and a year of mental instability and depression symptoms, I'm finally on the road to recovery and planning trips to a doctor and a therapist.

[@uniqueusername_]

Therapists, social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists are all heroes that are not given credit.

[@neuroanatomy]

Avery Smith i Agree!

[@Intersexashleyleeanntv]

uniqueusername_1024 idk if I feel the same way

[@musiclolli7280]

Not ... All..

[@Stash_box]

Don't forget the Occupational Therapists and Assistants who work with patients who have mental illness as well. They play a vital role in helping them participate in meaningful activities that greatly contribute to their overall wellness. :)

[@hey.aidid_]

Psychiatrists are the real heros. Psychiatry has changed my life. ❤

[@kamihimes]

The number of views of this Ted talk tells us how many people are suffering because of the stigma of mental health illness. People don't outgrow bad childhood experiences or traumas, and can't just "get over it", just like they can't outgrow A congenital heart defect or other serious medical illnesses.

[@evacody1249]

I wish more people understood that.

[@ruthclareauthor]

Totally agree. So many people are missing out on the help they need because they don't feel like it is safe to share their stories.

[@farhanpatwary9345]

💯

[@sni-ri1yg]

Ketamine and lsd can really help.

[@quartani]

Thank you for stating the obvious because most think we are fixable so we can be healthy and normal. I think it’s a innocent mistake we all wanted. It’s clear to more of us how it’s a life long unlearning active work in progress until the day we pass.

[@smthngintherain]

not all heroes wear capes. a big salute to Dr. Lieberman and every other person who is out there raising awareness to end this stigma

[@jeffreylieberman]

thx much, I asked Santa for a cape for Christmas

[@haroldmaio407]

Lieberman calls for ending it, but not for ending teaching it.

[@sandranorum6125]

@@jeffreylieberman This was amazing. I’m currently trying to survive yet another mental health crisis. Your speech brought tears to my eyes. It warms my heart that there are people out there fighting for people like me and so many others who aren’t necessarily strong enough to fight right now. Thank you for trying to make the world a better place. 🙏🏻❤️

[@justonemori]

no hero has ever worn a cape in the history of mankind

[@thexpax]

Awareness is at least Awareness, and that is the start.

[@jorysmith1468]

Stigmatizing someone because of how they adapt to stress/trauma/environment, is the biggest contributor to "stigma" he is talking about, not just the label of mental illness.

[@__mastershifureads__]

Every last one of these talks about mental illnesses bring me to tears.

[@neuroconexion2932]

SkyeBright StarLight you have a kind heart

[@jam5533]

Some people just think or see physically and mentally disabled people as less than human or subhuman. Just because of someone has a difficulty with something than you doesn't mean they should be berated or put down or even humiliated. It's better to give a helping hand or even give someone a little push forward in general if needed.

[@Dman9fp]

Or seen as "faking it"/ selfish(?) if it fluctuates, as in my experience with bipolar. Yep it isn't necessarily all bad "brain chemistry", but still largely out of our control a lot of the time, incredibly misunderstood... I get people are busy fending for themselves, but yeah time to stop the blame game imo (& if people want to say it's all our fault somehow, oh well nice knowing you lol)

[@jam5533]

@@Dman9fp I understand.

[@kj-my7se]

Name calling, insults and put downs are never ok under any circumstances. Some are more hurt and offended than others.

[@tylerpowell8191]

Thank you everyone who is destigmatizing mental illness. I hope, as a person with mental illness, I can soon become well enough to share my experiences with others and help people become more loving towards one another in general, more understanding, and more willing to forgive one another.

[@neuroconexion2932]

Tyler P Best wishes. When you’d like to share, let us know. We’ve recently launched our effort to break the stigma and share real life stories

[@AndrewDeneHelbig]

I came to watch this after seeing the move Joker. Though it had some violent scenes, it made me think a lot about how society doesn't value mentally ill people, how they're often left to fend for themselves. I hope that we can take away the stigma of mental illness and support one another, no matter if one has a mental illness or not. Thanks for this talk. That reading of the letter at the end was very nice to hear... We can all have compassion.

[@VladaRono]

I came to watch it after seeing Joker too)

[@sunny4lady]

While I agree with what you have to say, Joker is a poor representation of people that live with a mental illness. Joker represents someone who is violent towards others and that does not represent 20 percent of the population who live with a mental illness. A very tiny percentage CAN be a danger to others but that is very rare. And movies like Joker only adds to that stigma because it does not represent the general population who live with a mental illness and who live a fairly normal life with treatment.

[@trevorfranks69]

Society.

[@swetalinabarik6536]

I don't know these days I'm lacking compassions towards people

[@gevelegian]

I don't know if I'm acting like the victim but all my years of headaches and anxiety and easily startled, coming from a broken home and a broken family and from poverty all evolved into a history of drug abuse and neglect. It's sad to see that family and people around just cast you out since I am not abiding to their ideals of being a "normal person". No one tries to understand me or even help, they just automatically punish me in the worst way possible with me suffering from anxiety and low self-esteem and that is by treating me as a sub-human and demeaning me and having me know that I am not welcome here. I don't care about the neighbors but hearing this from your own mother is quite a low blow.

[@SandraLopez-if3yz]

so inspired by this. I live and breathe with being a dual diagnosed person. proud to say substance free for 8 years and live with depression and anxiety and PTSD.

[@taylorvelez750]

Sandra Lopez You mean you don't use meds for your conditions?

[@SandraLopez-if3yz]

Karla Velez no I've tappered off and am doing just fine

[@NoName-wc4qr]

congrats

[@daveprice3095]

Great to hear. Mine is similar. I’m a 37 male and started sleeping with a stuffed animal and was able to get off all meds. And feel better. You ever try?

[@neuroconexion2932]

💕

[@AM-bj7yo]

sitting here, having just finished my psychiatry rotations in medical school, and preparing for my psychiatry final tomorrow, i can't help but think of how judgmental i have been towards mental illness, and hearing how his empathy was the most important factor, i am without words. i can only pray that i am given some of his empathy and that i am able to help, and be a force of good, and not be so judgmental.

[@lisahall1989]

I'm sure you will impact our world in a good way. The fact that you are convicted is a great thing. 🌻💕

[@lisahall1989]

@Dagny Forever Amen to that!

[@ameliaflowers9836]

After suffering for years alone with mental illness , I’ve lost compassion and interest for family and friends with physical illness.

[@katarinamcdougall4983]

Amelia Flowers I feel the exact same way.

[@NoName-wc4qr]

that is normal you should be aware of that and make amends with friends and family.

[@ARod-fr4fd]

No Name Those you mentioned are the first to judge person with mental illness because they are the people know you and belittling you as a person. And imagined people don’t know your illness I’m pretty sure they will treat you as one of them.. Perhaps they are the one to blame that you’re marked by that desease!

[@b.j.banditt206]

Though it may somewhat "off-topic", PLEASE STOP USING STIGMATIZING TERMS SUCH AS "MENTAL ILLNESS(ES)" & "MENTALLY ILL" BC IT'S VERY SYNONYMOUS W/THE STIGMA THAT U VOW AGAINST!!!!! Instead of "MENTAL ILLNESS(ES)", say "MENTAL DISORDER(S)", "MENTAL (HEALTH) ISSUE(S)/CONDITION(S)", & "MENTALLY DISTURBED". The suggested terms r MUCH LESS STIGMATIZING than the "M.I." terms.

[@tommybro5313]

@@b.j.banditt206 Please don’t think this way. There’s no right or wrong by latter of those terms. You can only think it as a negative connotation but it is not. Never downgrade medical terms towards colloquialism. The more how we censor these things shows how stigmatizing already.

[@fallyfal4833]

Thank you. We appreciate your voice. I hope it amplifies the rest of ours.

[@scorpioone1168]

thank you Dr. Lieberman, on a recent trip to the metal hospital this past new years after being off my meds and going into sycosis again, I was out side on one the few release half hour break on the outside world for a cigerete when I had to explain why I hid my smokes in the bush to an ordinary patient and explained we aren't alound to have them on our ward, and after explaining that I was on the mental health ward she immediately turned to me and asked me why the hell was I aloud out, I had to explain to her that not all of us a violent and that we all have our troubles, and that sometimes we need a little bit of help

[@lisahall1989]

I wish I was there to sit and talk with you. Maybe that unkind person will get a dose of mental health one day. I don't wish that on anybody, but some people need to be humbled.

[@gabrielacepeda6645]

Thanks for keep advocating to stop mental illness stigma, you have no idea how much just some words can make to change the world.

[@ramblingsofabipolarmind9626]

This video really hit me hard. I feel so ashamed and embarrassed even though I try so hard not to. Thank you.

[@jeffreylieberman]

Don't worry about the past, never too late to change

[@hantzleyaudate7697]

You’re loved homie. Take it from a random dude on the Internet - your presence is a present!

[@paulgraham3377]

Having watched Dr Lieberman it has given me more motivation to share my story of my own live experience of schizophrenia, so that this can hopefully reduce the stigma and discrimination around mental health challenges. The more people talk openly the better this will be for the health and well-being of everyone.

[@jeffreylieberman]

So glad to hear, be fearless and not afraid to speak out

[@neuroconexion2932]

Inspirational!

[@lisahall1989]

Yes you are so right

[@Curtis.Carpenter]

There is less and less stigma surrounding it everyday, it’s amazing. I work with many people who are super open about their mental health issues and everyone at work is accepting because he’s so willing to share and explain how it affects him. It’s allowed many others at work to feel the same comfort in sharing their problems. We’re all closer because of it

[@bizarte24_]

Mentally ill children shouldn't be allowed to run amuck or do whatever they please.

[@nicmart]

YIt is routine for someone with opposing views to be labeled "narcissistic" or worse. As psychiatry has become more completely imbedded in American society, the stigma has become worse. Psychiatric terminology is the most important way to dehumanize someone today, just as religious terminology was in the past. Today a narcissist, yesterday a sinner.

[@uglyroboticscot6665]

I love your idea I struggle with anxiety and depression which stems from my high functioning autism and i was put aside by the teachers in school because they knew I had problems and sucidal thoughts and nothing was done my whole life untill now I’m now 19 and only been diagnosed with all of this, this year I think it would of helped if I got diagnosed younger

[@del5360]

Live your life better than they do, you'll get some revenge, some day, your brain is extraordinary, just enjoy it (;

[@lanzfarnazo6484]

Are you still stigmatize by society?

[@gejost]

Given that you understand what your issues are, what sort of things help you?

[@bigolbearthejammydodger6527]

What if there was no stigma to mental illness? Then my breakdown wouldn't have revealed the distinction between my associates and my freinds. Also Great talk doc.

[@Luther835]

Spot on! It's an eye opener.

[@woundedhealerschool]

same, same.

[@bigolbearthejammydodger6527]

@@woundedhealerschool wow a reply from a comment so long ago but on a relevant moment! My gaming group is doing a stream for mental health charity right now. check w4stedspace on twitch.

[@katoreynolds8526]

I really appreciate people speaking out against the stigma of mental illness. As people we should come to understand that mental illnesses are as real and as serious as any physical illness. I really hope that there will be a time where people with mental illnesses have better care available and do not end up homeless and suffering even further. God bless this man!

[@cliffjamesmusic]

In the 1980s the Campaign against Psychiatric Oppression (CAPO) met for regular music and poetry meetings in the Troubadour Café, London, to express their response to how people had been treated. I find it absurd that instead of learning from people who are classified as mentally ill and thereby changing society to avoid making people ill, we continue to support a socio-economic system built on cooperative abuse and exploitation, resulting in the adverse consequences for millions of people.

[@20DeeDee08]

I couldn't agree more about a mental health professionals, and doctors being caring, and not judgmental. I've had a few who have spoken down to me, and made me feel judged. People will not respond, or open up, if they feel this way with the people who are supposed to be helping them.

[@gejost]

Yes, all doctors, should be professional, for starters, no matter what health conditions they are treating. . I had a very poor guidance counselor.

[@lisahall1989]

I love you Dr. Lieberman I wish there were more doctors like you in the world. More people with understanding, kindness and a love for people as you have.. I'm a hurting mother of a daughter with mental illness. I feel if she had a chance to meet with you that you could truly help her. The behavioral health system is broken.and people need LOVE not just medicine. God is the essence of Love.

[@canizlupuzcanizlupuz]

These talks are needed.

[@OswaldDigestiveClinic]

If you found this video informative, you may also be interested to know that nutrition deficiencies can cause anxiety! For example, low vitamin D. You may not get enough from the sun, so you can go on a sunny vacation, buy a sun lamp, or supplement in the winter with 2000 IU/day! If you choose to supplement, just make sure you check with your dietitian/healthcare provider to make sure it's safe for you!

[@squidneythesquid2487]

I remember this year I didn’t finish an already late project for English(my depression has been terrible), and knowing I’d have to see the teacher first thing in the morning, I tried to give myself a migraine so I could get to school later, and have a “reason” to not be there. I literally gave myself a panic attack, hit my head, strained my eyes, avoided water, so I could hopefully wake up the next morning with a debilitating migraine.

[@lairyfights]

I've realized that not all doctors are compassionate. When Dr. Lieberman said that what Lori remembered was his compassion for her I felt that. As someone with bipolar i overanalyze people's tone of speech when they talk to me and sometimes I get hurt when my doctor is not so nice to me. It may not be easy to understand or be nice to a mentally ill person acting erratically even if you are a psychiatrist. So I have nothing but respect for doctors who are kind and compassionate to mentally ill people

[@candacecastillo2858]

This was a fantastic presentation and speech. Thank you for bringing awareness to end the stigma of mental illness. The full-circle moment with his patient, Laurie, brought tears to my eyes. Beautifully said Dr. Lieberman!

[@Augustus17]

Thank you for posting this video Doctor! Really appreciate you took the time to do so, I long for the day the stigma is finally gone from mental health problems & everyone suffering gets the help they need including myself! God Bless Doc!

[@kavorjosep]

I'm kinda sobbing having watched this thoroughly.

[@nurse7love21]

I agree...I suffer from mental illness and am doing good in nursing school...hearing about his patient Lauri really touched me...I had been putting off consistent treatment for so long because I was ashamed...but not anymore and I'm going to join in the fight to help others

[@amandajeanunger81]

I've lived with my mental illness for several years because I was ashamed too ... But not anymore I've been focusing on my mental health and helping my husband because he's worse off then I am ... And I think more people talking about it the more society will listen so being a spokes person and activism I think is great cause the more of us who do this the louder we will get let's be so loud that people have to listen to us because we won't go away lol won't quit till people with mental illness stop being discriminated in society ... Being told we are dangerous and they are scared when we are not and they shouldn't have to be scared ... Not everyone with mental illnesses are dangerous and may only become dangerous if their problems are not addressed and parts of their lives cannot be improved because people won't let them work or go to school or anything because people say no we have to dismiss you from your position or decline your application because you could possibly become a danger to yourself or others based on mental illness or mental disabilitys Id like to see more of people like us to rise up and fight for our right to live in society just like everyone else we deserve to have education to learn skills to change careers and me deserve to be able to work anywhere we choose as long as our job performance is adequate and we have the skills needed to complete the task

[@Augustus17]

@@amandajeanunger81 took me absolutely ages to free myself of the shame I felt about my mental health illness I also had a hard time because I'm a bloke I felt I should be stronger & I thought I was weak adding to the shame took a lot of extra self inflicted pain by drinking alcohol a lot before I accepted I needed help I also had to accept I had a mental health illness & I wasn't a weak person because of it

[@NoName-wc4qr]

That is great success nobody should be stereotyped for a mental illness im glad you are open and doing well..

[@vickimainard9566]

There are three words that can make a huge difference to someone with a mental illness. Are you ok? If they are they will either say so and that's end of it. Or you can open up a conversation as to what is troubling them and help them just by listening to them. My brother who has mental illness has told me countless times just listening to him and giving him my time and my ear have really helped him. I would love to see those three words help many more people like my brother.

[@LustStarrr]

A different conversation-starter, something that's phrased as an open question, & is asked with genuine compassion & curiosity, will be far more effective. 'Are you OK?', by comparison, is pretty easy to brush off ('yes'), terrifying to admit to ('no'), & fails to steer the conversation towards things like why they're feeling that way, what help may be available to them, what they've tried in the past, etc.

[@jeffreylieberman]

YOU GOT IT 👍

[@DeborahSRocha-fo6ti]

What a great message and challenge to each of us to be part of the change so desperately needed! Thank you!!

[@yacouba.hachine6500]

Thank you dr lieberman for inspiring the next generation of psychiatrist around the globe.

[@faletoomata8695]

That was excellent. Thank you for sharing!

[@mariya5480]

Thank you so much for your message to the world!!!!!!!

[@fatimaausama4451]

The world is blessed to have people like him and others who do the same, may God bless them

[@pastapete9095]

The stigma discredits the patient allowing for easier exploitation. Families can often use the stigma against a family member for opportunity to win in petty disagreements. The stigma will be enforced by those who exploit it's various leverage points.

[@paulamacintosh8637]

It would be a great world.

[@jeffreylieberman]

INDEED

[@PatriciaRamonas-cr5lq]

Brilliant man with a kind heart. Keep sharing this message.

[@lukewilliams7061]

It’s not really hard to understand. It’s just that the world is selfish because people that are not mentally ill are too driven to life and are oblivious to the fact that not everyone thinks that way. The stigma exist because you can’t see the illness. It’s not physical so therefore, no one will take that illness seriously. They only take it serious when someone takes their life. It leaves people bewildered as to why this person killed themselves and left their loved ones in pain but it’s simple, it’s because everyone needs to be more aware of what’s actually going on with the world which is dark reality. Humans are selfish in nature. Society just needs to be more understanding otherwise suicide is just going to keep on happening so it’s society that’s the problem and how the world works. It’s not rocket science.

[@lacyreeves8304]

You articulate how it "should be" so perfectly; as I listened I thought how I hope you have the audience of those who can impact change to the point of creating such programs. In the mean time those of us who agree, need to step forward boldly to eliminate the stigma; by speaking up and by our actions. Thank you for sharing your wisdom.

[@jeffreylieberman]

I have an audience but unfortunately it's not large enough nor includes those in positions of power i.e. the government and media

[@CrazyChaosClara]

That letter made me cry of joy... Beautiful. All you need to do is care.. and you might just save someone's life doing so! *sidenote Lieberman literally means nice man in german (lieber Mann) ❤

[@jeffreylieberman]

Correct, actually the literal translation, I believe, is Dear Man

[@jeffreylieberman]

Thanks for the kind words and german translation (wasn't sure if it was Nice or Loving man)

[@origin6163]

jawohl!

[@lisahall1989]

Wow! His name perfectly fits him. Not only knowledge, but bedside manners.

[@supportivepal]

Thank you for your kind sharing

[@raisethebridge]

I’ve never felt more understood in my entire life and the fact that the feeling was caused by a Doctor is shocking. Thank you so for this.

[@fabiolas.c.6129]

Yesterday was the first anniversary of my mental collapse, the one that took me to the psychiatric doc and meds. I tried not to think about it yesterday, but now, watching this, it deeply resonated. Much needed tears. The never ending struggling. Sometimes towards certain death, sometimes towards safety.

[@katiebaez855]

This is life changing awareness!

[@georgej7141]

This is by far the most important n interesting talk I've had the chance to hear. A subject which is commonly swept under the carpet in daily life in many families with frivolous commnents.

[@3longatedmuskr4tmusic30]

As someone suffering from schizophrenia. I wish there was no stigma. Like the illness wasn't torture enough i know also am seen as not fit for well oiled society

[@JesusSaves194]

Jesus can heal you , he healed my brother instantly

[@docpaulchung6217]

Thank you Dr Lieberman! Great stories and examples that show the uphill battle we fight in mental health related to stigma.

[@bhatkat]

The uphill aspect sure nails it, progress being on about the same order as with Sisyphus with that stone getting pushed back down all the time.

[@mridusharma8311]

Every person needs to watch this. So so helpful. Thank you so much, Sir! Speaking about an issue that most people only believe in hushing away. Can't agree more that compassion can genuinely make this world a much happier place. Let's keep talking about and break this stigma!

[@jeffreylieberman]

THANK YOU 🙏

[@woundedhealerschool]

Shunned, ridiculed, feared, treated like a pariah...I feel like that has happened to me my whole life. I wish these changes would happen, but I doubt they will in my lifetime. People don't care about the mentally ill, generally speaking. It's beyond sad.

[@jasminmarie7521]

Thank you sir !

[@taylorluvshorses16]

Fantastic speech, Dr. Lieberman! The email Lori sent you brought a tear to my eye. I’m hoping to make as much of a difference in the lives of my clients as you once I finish graduate school and enter the field. :)

[@jeffreylieberman]

Thx and good luck with your studies and career in mental health care

[@rethikar6191]

Thank you Dr Jeffrey for your views on mental illness

[@harpersangels4443]

Thank you!!!!!!! 💜💜💫

[@adamnewton9302]

This was brilliant. Great content with a good balance of psychiatric knowledge, historical context, and personal experience. Very memorable.

[@jeffreylieberman]

Thx, will try to do another if TED will have me

[@lisahall1989]

Amen

[@OswaldDigestiveClinic]

If you liked this video, you may also want to know that Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause depression, but nutrition can help! Good food sources of vitamin B12 include: animal products, and vegan/vegetarian sources. Liver is a great animal source, which you can sautee with onions, or put on skewers, roast over an open fire, and add salt and pepper! Good vegan sources include nutritional yeast and mushrooms!

[@faithworks4633]

Thank you so much for this 🙏 you are my hero!! This should be a manditory class/presentation for all medical/mental health/ drug and alcohol/ authortive figures of any kind!!! I wish u could be my Dr. 🙏😢

[@fotissfetas8332]

Incredibly inspiring ❤️

[@GrandMasterBruh]

Stuff like schizophrenia and people in their 30’s with dementia really remind me how lucky we all are. It genuinely really is just a roll of the die, and that’s incredibly scary.

[@rach3092]

This is probably one of the most important TEDTalks thank you Dr. Jeff!

[@jeffreylieberman]

thank you please share with others and my new book Malady of the Mind

[@therealdaniellebrant]

Im going to be vocal about speaking of the fact i survived my MI experiences and stop hiding my experience as a survivor of CPTSD and all it entails. thank you

[@jeffreylieberman]

No, THANK YOU

[@CPositivista]

@Danielle Brent, as soon as I started speaking about my experience with PTSD and depression I found that others around me started talking about their experiences too.

[@AlexanderZelaya]

Let's eliminate the stigmas, and let's talk about mental health!

[@nusratparveen82]

Yeah!

[@arieltai23]

I am so on board with you Dr. Leiberman!

[@jeffreylieberman]

and I with you. 🙏👍

[@oliviafield9392]

Thank you 🙏

[@ExploreEmbraceExpress]

I am doing an interview tonight with someone who asked me to talk about depression and anxiety- one thing I would like to say, although I think this talk is absolutely fabulous, is I think we should be maybe choosing words that are more empowering when it comes to our health in general- like rather than say “suffering from” how about “experiencing”-- such as the difference between “I’m suffering from depression and anxiety” and “I am experiencing depression and anxiety”- -I just feel like one makes you feel like a victim, and the other and makes you feel a bit more empowered -just my two cents, but thank you so much for your time in this absolutely fabulous talk on such a serious issue. Sincerely someone who experiences depression and anxiety.

[@breindyhoch528]

Excellent and much needed video.

[@SuperGorak]

yeah, tell the majority of people. I am being kicked out of my shared apartment because my roommates have difficulty connecting to me due to my anxiety and depression. It's that easy to dismiss a person with problems and just so justified in the minds of other people. And I don't blame em. If they want to live with someone who they can connect to better, then that's their right. I think it's important to understand that for this scenario there is no one-dimensional solution. You gotta see it from the third person's perspective. Which in itself is a really important skill

[@brittloynaz516]

What an amazing talk.

[@debrajenkins1622]

Not just stigma. People get angry at me if I'm high and or low. They go out of their way to yell at me. Only very rarely have some treated me with compassion.

[@alkasoli4002]

Stigma is heart -wrenching

[@goldmeteora5617]

Wonderful presentation.

[@jeffreylieberman]

🙏

[@cynthiahawkins2389]

I returned to college, wth great pride and fervent dedication, right after WTC 9/11/2001. I was 54 years old. I attended Columbia University School of General Studies, matriculating and majoring in English and Comp Lit. Won every major scholarship, within belching distance, maintained a 3.6 for quite some time. Eventually, the stresses of working outside, and school took a toll on me, and I began to suffer from serious depression. What I remember distinctly, was that all mental health counseling service were closed/unavailable to me. I was 'ineligible"due to my status as a part-time student. After many hours of evaluation, meetings and professional interviews which would have set a treatment plan in place and probably allowed me to remain at SGS - I was told, "We are sorry you misunderstood the program..". I dropped out of school. It is 2018 as I write - Columbia may or may not still do this to SGS students, or others, but at $1,000+ a credit when I was there in the early 2000's, the Ivy League grew way... short of the mark.

[@jeffreylieberman]

Unfortunately this is often the case. Schools and Universities are ambivalent about taking on this responsibility,

[@w3n33dam1racl3]

What makes it hard for people to seek help are those social workers, therapists, psychologists who are doing it for the money. In the foster care system, Foster caregivers are guilty of this as well. But he hit the nail on the head when he said it was the fact he cared and was passionate about her overcoming. If people were more caring and showed active, unconditional support, the world would be healed.

[@capresti3537]

Every single psychiatric label stigmatizes the person being labeled and as long as we continue to use psychiatric labels (contained within the DSM) to describe behaviors, psychiatry will continue to profit while the public suffers. No psychiatric label, no billing insurance. No psychiatric label, no drug prescribed. So until we stop using these psychiatric labels, which mean nothing other than what some psychiatrists decided was a mental “illness,” we will never stop the “stigma.” The psychiatric labels are backed by corporate interests not medicine, and not science.

[@KendrasLaw]

Excellent speech. Especially like the part where you note that Gay AIDS victims ended ostracization/stigma by forcing government to engage in research that led to treatment. That is a better approach than that taken by the mental health industry and advocates, which is to seek government grants for their own organizations to run public service announcements teaching the public that there is stigma to mental illness. Thanks for speech

[@kaylacorcoran1533]

DJ, thought you didn't believe early treatment/detection was possible yet. Also thought you didn't find stigma to be a huge problem. A few things that stick out off the top of my head, seeing as you seem to typically describe them as a distraction at best. Along those lines, always thought you thought getting people on meds, and in therapy should take place before researching cause. It seems most ban together when it comes to outing antipsychiatry, even if they say stigma isn't a big problem. Even though, most of us advocate for compassion, which is why we reject the mental health system. Even if they advocate for things they normally claim is a waste. Even if we're the ones trying to prevent the inevitable stigma of being thought of as mentally ill, for life. Possibly violent, forced on medication, and locked up.

[@jeffreylieberman]

Thanks DJ, coming from you this is HIGH PRAISE indeed !!

[@jeffreylieberman]

DJ we miss you. may you RIP

[@joywilliams4014]

This gives me hope. Maybe one day they will have facilities for mental health like they do for addiction.

[@PinkYellowGreen2023]

People can be really cruel and predatory toward people with mental illness.

[@rhea1620]

These are the kind of videos I hit like on before I even start watching them.

[@neuroconexion2932]

Rhea Do you have any suggestions for me as I make videos on mental health on my channel?

[@Clocloo0123]

i used to hide away my mental asd ( autisum spectum disorder ) and many did never understand and i hid my mental state for 3 years but after i opened up and i talked to my whole class about my asd now i feel better i told pepole about my true self

[@hasanalyafei6864]

I don’t care about stigma, I care about my suffering

[@memorabiliaexpert]

Thanks

[@manalabushadi8050]

Thank you so much ❄️

[@OswaldDigestiveClinic]

If you found this helpful, you may also want to know that Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause depression. Also, a person may eat lots of animal products (which contain B12), and still may not be adequately absorbing B12. Reasons for this malabsorption can include: history of having part of the intestine removed, having Crohn’s disease and associated intestinal inflammation, bacterial or yeast overgrowth, low stomach acid, taking meds that suppress stomach acid, and genetic predisposition!

[@susanritchey1849]

I'm right there with you. I'm a mental health consumer & worked in the field. Sad to say..most working in the residential facilities have no real clue about mental illness. I attempt to advocate for individuals with mental illness. My own family hasn't even become educated about it. I had to move to another State to be where people accepted me for who I was and loved me. Thanks for helping to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.

[@JesusSaves194]

Jesus can heal you 🙏

[@jadathompson5580]

@@JesusSaves194 amen

[@priyamandal3721]

Two things that I will practice from today 1.Showing Compassion 2.Not Judging People.

[@jakehenderson746]

This was so helpful I highly recommend!

[@OswaldDigestiveClinic]

If you found this video helpful, you may also be interested to know that nutrition is an important factor when it comes to anxiety! Several nutrients that can result in anxiety if you're deficient include: magnesium, vitamin D, and vitamin B6!

[@reeju9125]

I wish our society could understand this. When people with mental illness function & give it all to perform, there is a different stigma. A feeling of others looking down on one. I've seen people treat one worst on account that one doesn't fit their idea of who, or what one should look like, sound like etc.. Especially if cultural differences add to the a perception. Leading a person not simply functioning , but over performing with a burden to be perfect. End results are that one suffers abuse in social, family, or work enviornments. People treat you badly, once they've realized one has a diagnosis can be an opportunity to behave unprofessional ways. I wish the society and work places understood the pain that people with mental illness go through after functioning well and being told otherwise. Thanks Dr. Lieberman for continuing to teach others that illness is not just physical.

[@peacefulmind2612]

Let's break the stigma 🙏🏻...happy world mental health month❤

[@derekkitchen9982]

My name is Derek Steele I just turned 46 years old I have had to take psych meds starting at age 7 I've tried shock treatment and a lot of praying and I've been on over 280 psych meds that work at times but don't at others I'm a rapid cycler so my chemistry changes too fast just was wondering if anyone else has this problem thank you and God bless Derek

[@totallyoverratedsellouts5039]

Wishing you the best and sending love

[@lisahall1989]

I'm praying for you Derek.

[@alitpb]

Tedx ..pls hold a talk on conversion disorder / FND and what the family and friends of the patients can do to support the patients....

[@muffyw5114]

awesome Jeff!!

[@angelpandadaylane4924]

What did you like about this video, any of it hit a home run with you?

[@jeffreylieberman]

Thanks Muffy, my heroine !!

[@carnystrickland7367]

Nothing makes me more upset in this world than the anti psychiatrist movement. I have moderate to severe bipolar disorder and severe anxiety that has ruined many things and relationships with people . The fact people don’t believe mental illness is real makes me upset because without this field I wouldn’t be here. Let’s break the stigma.

[@JesusSaves194]

Jesus Christ can heal you

[@carnystrickland7367]

@@JesusSaves194 yeah no I’ve been praying for years never got better until I took action for myself and went to see the best psychiatrist. do you not believe in psychiatry. God or whatever is out there only helps if you take it upon yourself to get better with god help and seek treatment or whatever you need to help improve your life . My grandpa and father are pastors and have praying for me my entire life . I’m been the happiest I’ve ever been from leaving religion.

[@capresti3537]

The stigma? The stigma begins with the psychiatrists themselves. They're the ones who do the stigmatizing.

[@Mad_S]

A step in the right direction to be sure. But you also have to make it known, because I'd be willing to bet that I was not the only child in the world that didn't know it was mental illness. Its pretty hard to come forward when your first fear is being labeled as fake because you don't even know if it is forsure.

[@Snenors4pres]

There are so many people affected with these disorders we ought to be humble and recognize the probability of having a mental disorder ourselves.

[@scarahjolielaide]

Other than the fact he said BPD affects "young people" (it doesn't just affect young people) good talk...

[@neuroanatomy]

I hope we can end the stigma against mental illness, psychiatrists, and psychologists.

[@angelusa73]

Unfortunately we don't feel free to open up with others and in this world humans are closing instead of opening up and trusting one another more. We humans are not paying attention and show compassion as a way to care for another person. The world would be and CAN BE a better place if each one of us would listen more and share and CARE for one another. It can be in a smaller and simpler way and it can make a BIG difference. Try it and knowing it help someone to feel better will make you feel amazing inside! :)

[@saxem5037]

If mental illness did not have a stigma attached to it, there are so many good things that would come to those who struggle with these illnesses. First off, they would not struggle to find help. Many who struggle with mental illness are embarrassed to talk about it, so they don’t. This leads to them trying to deal with it on their own without professional or even personal help from others. If they weren’t embarrassed, then they would seek help earlier and be diagnosed earlier leading to a more favorable outcome for those people. No one has ever suggested just going on a walk or to just tough it out for a broken leg. But there are so many people who suggest that for people who are dealing with mental illness struggles. If the stigma did not exist then people would look at mental illness the same as they view physical illness. This would lead to more support for those living with mental illnesses. Individuals living with mental illness would not have to worry about the negative effects of stigma, such as social isolation and out right discrimination. They would be able to openly discuss their experiences and receive support from others without fear of judgment or rejection. This will lead to increased community support and understanding for individuals with mental health disorders. A world without mental illness stigma would be one of increased compassion for others. Little by little this stigma is going away but there are still a lot of people who hold on to those beliefs of the past. We need to make a conscious effort to get rid of the ideas that we hole about people who are struggling with any sort of illness. This change in view will only lead to a better place for every one to live in.

[@sandygoodwick6126]

The people who should be speaking about stigma are the ones who experience it, not the ones whose professional engagement rationalizes it’s existence. This is a myth that perpetuates... that when people “know” a ‘mental illness’ is a brain-based disease, stigma will be reduced. The reality? The micro aggressions (the looks, the lack of social engagement, ...) that are subtle, 1:1... Not only is this a myth to others, it’s a myth to ourselves. How many homeless individuals would agree their depression, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia, etc., are purely brain-based conditions that arose clear out of the blue, like cancer might? How many people who even seek psychiatric care do so while scratching their heads, wondering how they “caught” thus diagnosis of major depression? This “medicalizes” a human condition linked to social justice abuses, civil rights abuses, verbal abuse, emotional and physical abuse, war, accidents, crimes...

[@jeffreylieberman]

????? what do you do when you get the flu or high blood pressure. Not sure what you are upset about but would like to understand

[@hampton00]

I know for a fact that mental illness...depression and other mood disorders can and do occur like cancer. Perfectly normal, compassionate, people fully engaged in a wonderful life DO develop these illnesses, and it is particularly devastating because it IS out of the blue and this postpones diagnosis and treatment. Guilt sets in quickly because the thoughts and behaviors that come with depression are foreign to these people and they and others can see no reason for their depression. They are in greater danger of devastating results, and your opinions to the contrary strengthen the stigma that pushes them into silence from undeserved shame and embarrassment. Of course social abuses can cause depression, i.e. changes in the brain creating the symptoms, but that does not prevent mental illness from happening to "unlikely" people, also.