The Stigma of Untrustworthy

I wanted to take a moment to talk about something that’s been on my mind and see what thoughts you might have as well. I've been reflecting on how sometimes there can be misunderstandings or assumptions around mental health experiences, particularly regarding trust and belief in individuals' stories.

I've noticed situations where people might feel that their experiences aren't fully trusted or understood, and I think this can understandably lead to feelings of isolation or frustration. I’m particularly interested in how we, as a group, can ensure that everyone feels truly heard and respected, and what small steps we might take to reduce any stigma.

For example, I remember speaking with someone who felt like their story was met with skepticism, and their insights about how that felt were really eye-opening for me. It made me wonder: If we start believing people, how might that change their lives? Isn't it worth reflecting on the idea that there is nothing to fear from believing people—especially when we have societal systems in place to protect against wrongdoing?

How do you all feel about creating an environment where trust is a core value, and where everyone feels comfortable sharing their experiences without fear of disbelief?

I’d love to hear any thoughts or experiences you have, or any ideas on how we can continue to grow in this area together."