People who suffer from depression often feel like they are the only person in the world who feels that way. A lot of people suffer from depression and sometimes others don’t know about it because they don’t talk about their feelings.

Most people don’t like talking about their problems because it’s hard to talk to other people due to the stigma around mental illness.

People tend to discriminate against people with mental illnesses.
That’s why mental health isn’t something anyone should joke about. Mental health is a person’s psychological and emotional well-being.

Joking about having suicidal thoughts should not be taken lightly because someone could take you seriously. If a person hears someone say that they’re going to kill themselves, they might tell an adult and they will inform their parents because they think they might put themselves at harm.

Be careful of what you say because people take things the wrong way. Joking about mental health can have a negative impact on people. Jokes about depression, anxiety, or feeling suicidal make those who suffer these thoughts feel like an outcast or unimportant.

“It’s not acceptable to joke around about other people’s illness. I think the kids that joke about it should have consequences.” said junior Jaylyn Harrison.

If someone you love is feeling down or overwhelmed, reach out to them and help them seek medical attention. Mental illness is more common than we’d like to think.

“People who are dealing with it: you’re not alone,” said Jimmy Higa a counselor from Margaret’s Place. Higa is available for drop-ins in Room 210B. Students can also talk to their counselors or school psychologists in Room 219. If you feel the need to contact someone for help at night or on the weekend call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.