I made this doodle while thinking about Sinead O’Connor. Like many of the “rich and famous”, depression, substance abuse, suicide and mental + emotional breakdowns have been part of her story under the spotlight. And when the spot light is not shining bright above them, it surprises us to discover that despite being so popular, they find themselves alone, isolated and without the proper support network to help them through times of trouble. No one to ask for help. No one to realize you need help.
Like so many others who suffer from mental disorders or who are trauma survivors, they are also forced to struggle with the stigma, the shame, the guilt, the inadequacy, the feeling wrong/bad/damaged/ugly about something you shouldn’t have to feel this way about, since nobody ever chooses to suffer from a mental disorder or to become a survivor of trauma.
When we discover Sinead’s story of trauma, as she relates having suffered physical and sexual abuse at the hands of her mother, we can better understand and empathize with her suffering. Trauma changes us. Especially when suffered from such a young age, for such extended periods of time and when the perpetrator is someone so close to you as your primary caretaker. Those who are supposed to take care + protect you.
I hope Sinead gets a chance to work through her story of trauma and heal those wounds from the past. I hope for a life with less stigma for all those who suffer from mental disorders and the long lasting effects of trauma in their lives. So you know, if you are suffering, please, please, please ask + scream + cry for help. Stay safe, stay happy, stay you! - Izzy
