The Transformation of Mental Health Awareness: From 90s Struggles to Today's Supportive Society

Secondhand Smoke and the Unpleasant Dining Experience in the 90s

In the 90s, smoking was allowed in restaurants, with designated smoking sections located just a few feet away from non-smoking areas. This meant that children and non-smokers had to endure the discomfort of being exposed to secondhand smoke while dining out. The walls of homes belonging to heavy smokers, often grandparents, would be stained yellow from years of smoking. However, with the change in attitudes towards smoking today, people are more conscious of the health risks associated with secondhand smoke and actively avoid being near smokers, creating a more pleasant dining experience for everyone.

Inappropriate MTV Countdowns and the Objectification of Celebrities

MTV's "countdown to 18" shows in the 90s were highly inappropriate, with countdowns until celebrities like Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, Justin Bieber, and the Olsen Twins turned 18. This objectification of young celebrities was seen as creepy and disrespectful. Thankfully, society has evolved, and such practices are no longer tolerated. The focus has shifted towards empowering and supporting celebrities, recognizing their talent and achievements rather than objectifying them based on their age.

The Limitations of Information Access in the 90s

In the 90s, if you didn't know a piece of information, you had to rely on outdated encyclopedias at home or books at the library to look it up. This often resulted in not knowing the answer or relying on friends who may provide incorrect information. Nowadays, with the advent of the internet and search engines like Google, information is readily available at our fingertips. We can access accurate and up-to-date information within seconds, making research and learning more efficient and reliable.

The Mean-Spiritedness of 90s Humor and Media Icons

The humor in the 90s often had strong undertones of meanness, disguised as irony, irreverence, and nihilistic humor. Homophobia was rampant and openly expressed, particularly due to the visibility of LGBTQ+ individuals. Media icons of the time, such as Jerry Springer, Rush Limbaugh, and Howard Stern, thrived on putting a target on someone's back and often perpetuated mean-spiritedness and discrimination. Thankfully, society has become more aware of the harmful effects of such humor and media representation. There is now a greater push for inclusive and respectful comedy that uplifts and unites rather than belittles and divides.

The Lack of Mental Health Awareness and Support in the 90s

Mental health awareness and treatments were lacking in the 90s, leaving many individuals without the understanding and support they needed. The er shares their personal experience of being diagnosed with severe ADHD at the age of 38, highlighting the challenges they faced throughout their life due to a lack of awareness and support. ADHD, especially in girls and women, was often misunderstood and overlooked in the 90s. The er mentions lying their way through school, forging signatures, and feeling like a "space cadet" despite being intelligent in other ways.

The Journey Towards Normalcy and the Importance of Mental Health Support

The er believes that if there had been more awareness of ADHD and its manifestations in the 90s, they may have received the necessary support and strategies to help them overcome their challenges. Their life was described as a "s*** show" due to the lack of awareness and understanding of their ADHD. However, with increased mental health awareness and available treatments today, the er expresses relief at finally feeling like they can function more normally. This journey highlights the transformative impact that mental health awareness and treatments can have on individuals' lives.

The Progress in Mental Health Awareness and the Need for Continued Efforts

The lack of awareness and support for mental health issues in the 90s was a significant drawback compared to today's more open discussions and available treatments. The er's personal journey with ADHD showcases the positive impact that increased mental health awareness and treatments can have on individuals' lives. Their struggles with ADHD in the 90s, such as lying, forging signatures, and feeling like an underachiever, were common among individuals with undiagnosed or unsupported mental health conditions during that time. The er's story serves as a reminder of the progress made in mental health awareness and the importance of continued efforts to improve understanding, support, and resources for individuals with mental health conditions.

Building a Compassionate and Inclusive Society

The challenges faced by the er in the 90s due to a lack of awareness and support for mental health issues highlight the need for a more compassionate and inclusive society that prioritizes mental well-being. It is crucial to continue raising awareness, promoting understanding, and providing accessible resources for individuals with mental health conditions. By doing so, we can create a society where everyone feels supported and empowered to live their best lives.