A Reflection & Insights on Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health
- Maribel Castillo Stikeleather
- Dec 21, 2025
- 4 min read
By: Aaron Freed & Belle Stikeleather
The October 25, 2025, event brought together voices from diverse backgrounds to discuss mental health, neurodiversity, and the challenges faced by those living with conditions such as bipolar disorder. As an autistic adult attending the event, I found the conversations deeply personal and eye-opening. This post shares my reflections and key takeaways, offering insight and encouragement to others navigating similar paths.
The average bipolar disorder diagnosis occurs eleven years after its initial onset.
Bipolar disorder can confer some seldom-recognized advantages: for instance, the state of hyperthymia (from ὑπέρθῡμος, Greek for “high-spirited” or “daring”) can increase a person’s energy, productivity, self-confidence, tirelessness, and cheerfulness, all of which are excellent traits for leaders to possess.
Gen. Martin had perhaps the healthiest reaction I’ve ever heard to being fired: he concluded that fate, or God, had other, more important things in store for him. As it turns out, he was correct.
Bipolar disorder can be managed with a combination of therapy, medication, and a healthy attitude.
Five P’s:
People (family, friends, etc.)
Place (happy home)
Purpose (a life mission in service of others)
Perseverance (relentless, unflagging drive to succeed)
Presence (self-awareness, metacognition)
(I suggested a sixth: Practice – improving and forming good habits through repetition)
Five Fs:
Faith, Family, Friends, Fitness, Fun
Many people treat mental illness as a sign of weak personal ethics. Such stigma discourages many from seeking the help they need out of fear of professional or academic repercussions. Seeking help should not be viewed as a sign of weakness: indeed, it takes considerable strength to admit you need help, much less seek it. Mental illness is no more caused by personal ethical failings than injuries or physical illnesses are.
Perhaps most importantly: if you need treatment, seek it, even if you’re afraid of repercussions on your career. Whatever those might be, the potential of losing your life is far worse.
Understanding Neurodiversity Beyond Labels
One of the strongest messages was the importance of recognizing neurodiversity as a natural variation in human brains, not a deficit or disorder to be fixed. The event emphasized that neurodiversity includes autism, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and other conditions, each with unique strengths and challenges.
Speakers shared personal stories that challengedpes. For example, Ret. Gen. Gregg Martin, the author of "Bipolar General: My Forever War with Mental Illness," described how their bipolar diagnosis was initially viewed as a barrier but, with the right support, became a source of creativity and resilience. This perspective helps reduce sti common stereotygma by shifting the focus from limitations to potential.
The Impact of Stigma on Mental Health
Stigma remains a major barrier for many seeking help or acceptance. The event highlighted how stigma affects mental health by creating isolation and discouraging open conversations. For autistic individuals and those with bipolar disorder, stigma often leads to misunderstanding and exclusion.
A powerful moment came when a mental health advocate shared that stigma delayed their diagnosis and treatment for years. This delay worsened their condition and intensified feelings of shame. The takeaway is clear: we need to foster environments where people feel safe sharing their experiences without fear of judgment.
Practical Strategies for Supporting Mental Health
The event offered practical advice for individuals, families, and communities to support mental health and embrace neurodiversity:
Create safe spaces for open dialogue about mental health and neurodiversity. This can be in schools, workplaces, or social groups.
Educate others to reduce stigma by sharing accurate information and personal stories.
Encourage self-advocacy so individuals can express their needs and seek accommodations.
Promote access to tailored mental health services that respect neurodiverse experiences.
Build peer support networks where people can connect with others who understand their challenges.
These strategies are not just theoretical. For example, a team coaching support group initiated by Behavioral Teaching Solutions provided opportunities for neurodivergent adults to experience friendship and build relationships. This process helped many autistic adults manage anxiety and mood swings by sharing coping techniques and resources.
A Clinician's Reflection on Living with Bipolar and Autism
As someone whose career is to provide behavioral support through creative and innovative treatment programs, I've come to see my career as a service and a vocation. Gathering to talk about topics that not everyone wants to discuss can be overwhelming, especially when mental health symptoms fluctuate unpredictably. Yet hearing Gregg Martin interviewed by Greg Stikeleather, who described the journeys, gave all of us hope and practical ideas.
One insight that stood out was the importance of self-awareness and routine. Maintaining a consistent daily schedule helps manage mood swings and sensory overload. Another was the value of finding allies—whether friends, therapists, or community members—who understand neurodiversity and provide support without judgment.
The event also reminded us that my experiences are valid and that we are not alone. This sense of community is crucial to mental wellness.
Moving Forward with Greater Understanding
The October 25 event was a reminder that progress in mental health and neurodiversity depends on ongoing education, empathy, and action. We all have a role to play in challenging stigma and creating inclusive spaces.
For those reading this, consider the following steps:
Learn more about neurodiversity and mental health conditions like bipolar disorder.
Share your own story or listen to others to build empathy.
Support organizations working to improve mental health services and awareness.
Advocate for policies that recognize and accommodate neurodiverse individuals.
