“You don’t look sick” is harmful

One of the most dangerous myths surrounding mental illness is that suffering must be visible to be real. Many people with mental health disorders work, smile, laugh, and show up every day — while fighting exhaustion, intrusive thoughts, emotional pain, or su*cidal ideation behind closed doors. 

Invisible illnesses are still illnesses. 

If someone has to fight their mind to survive the day, that is sickness. If getting out of bed feels impossible, that is sickness. If emotions swing uncontrollably despite effort, medication, or therapy, that is sickness. 

Stop treating people who are mentally ill like they can “help it”.