The Look

I'm pretty sure you know The Look.

The look of someone who sees the behaviors caused by mental illness and doesn't know how to respond.

In the grocery store, I've caught the eye of people staring at the winter coat and hat in the middle of summer.

In restaurants, the server seems impatient as the illness prevents a quick processing of the menu.

The lady at the library keeps her distance, uncertain about the sudden laughter at the voice that she can't hear.

And I'll admit, I've often wanted to turn to the man openly staring and ask him what his problem is. (Deep breath....)

The truth is, what I really want them to do is to understand. To understand how hard this is. To understand that the behaviors can't be helped. To see the person I know and love, instead of the illness he has.

If you've had these experiences, too, perhaps this will help. Print some of these out and keep them handy. Then, when The Look happens, and you feel so inclined, you can hand the person one of these cards.

It can't hurt. It might even help a little.

Stay strong, moms.

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