In the past, I've said, "It's OK to draw boundaries with #MentalHealthAwareness."

I realized I would be amiss as a #MentalHealth advocate if I didn't describe:

1. How complacency harmfully promotes stigma
2. How stigma influences our definition of "boundaries" 1/

First, what do I mean by "it's OK to draw boundaries with #MentalHealthAwareness"?

Engaging with mental health can be difficult and emotionally draining. Taking a step back from being a mental health ally can be a form of #selfcare. 2/

#AcademicMentalHealth

However, I've seen people too often use "boundaries" as an excuse for their own laziness and refusal to educate themselves when they DO have the energy to support.

I elaborate more on this type of gaslighting in the thread below. 3/ https://twitter.com/xiaofei_lin/status/1296908397145554945

This behavior highlights a KEY PROBLEM:

Our ableist society stigmatizes anything that does NOT fit the mold of able-bodied as unappealing and/or burdensome.

Such stigmatizing beliefs discourage #MentalHealth allies from offering support, and perpetuates inequity. 4/

How do these stigmatizing attitudes of "being a burden" perpetuate inequity?

Many people refuse to put in MINIMAL EFFORT to support people struggling with #MentalHealth, and cite (stigma informed) "boundaries" as their reason. 5/ https://twitter.com/xiaofei_lin/status/1298280605285720070

We need to change the narrative so that engaging with #MentalHealthAwareness isn't "a burdensome option" but rather a RESPONSIBILITY for every member of society.

The definition of "boundaries" will then become MORE reflective of #selfcare than stigma. 6/

Overall messages:

- Engaging with #MentalHealthAwareness IS work
- The current definition of "boundaries" is influenced by stigma
- If you remain inactive, you are supporting inequity
- In all aspects of life, any responsibility must be balanced with #selfcare

7/7

CC: @PhD_Balance @DragonflyMH @SusannaLHarris @ZJAyres @krwedemeyer @pyromanticism @CA_AstroComm @AcademicChatter @OpenAcademics @ChronInvisSTEM