I have often thought about this, particularly recently, in regards to gun control. There is common consensus that, if an individual is mentally ill, they should not be legally permitted to own a fire arm. The issue is that mental illness is a term that is unbelievably broad in it's application. Should someone with minor to moderate depression be treated in the same way as someone with severe depression? I don't know. I'm definitely in favor of stronger legislation, stricter background checks - I even think that there should be a new gun registration act, requiring owners to register yearly like with automobiles - and to pay a (small) fee for each weapon.
Getting back to the topic at hand though... having been myself diagnosed some years ago with post traumatic stress disorder, there are times when I'm blown away by the ignorance in regards to mental illness. There are often broad brush, blanket statements asserting that the "mentally ill" are responsible for all of society's woes. Theft, rape, murder, crimes of war... the list is endless. In reality, I'm generally a harmless individual who simply struggles with depression and anxiety - and I hate being lumped in with people who do despicable things.
That said, when the issue comes up - I often openly admit to having a mental illness. This is not something I am ashamed of, nor should it be a cause for shame for anyone. It is an illness, not a character flaw, not a sign of personal weakness, laziness, cruelty or stupidity. In rational societies we treat illness, we don't condemn the suffering simply for being sick. So I proudly admit to being mentally ill, the mentally ill are an enormous (and growing) group of people who have too often and for too long been mistreated, misdiagnosed, misunderstood - and yes, oppressed politically and socially. This is unacceptable. Understanding, I believe... empathy, is the solution. You display a great deal of both, which I respect and appreciate more than I can say.
You said a lot of what I have thought to myself at various times - and you said it far better than I could have. As I said, beautifully written. Happy to K & R.
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