The Social ‘Misfits’

Technology has propelled human civilization like never before.

We can reach almost anywhere in the world within 24 hours.  We can communicate with anyone anywhere in near real-time.  We can shop the entire mall from the comfort of our own computer.

How about medicine?  Have we seen exponential progress? Are we living much longer, healthier, more fulfilled lives?

Medicine has made quantum leaps in the last few decades alone, but there’s still so much to be learned – especially mental illness and patient care.

Three weeks ago, I attended a conference on Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).  The speaker said, “Brains which have experienced shock (from light concussion to a severe blow to the head), can severely alter and impact behaviors and personalities, usually to the detriment of its owner (like our brave soldiers and veterans).”

A Story of a Former Software Engineer and a Iraqi War Veteran

Should we feel sorry for these people?  Absolutely not!

They don’t need our sympathy.  They don’t need to be looked down.  These people need our understanding and empathy, not to mention their family and care takers.  They’re often isolated because people don’t want to hear their stories.

The vicious cycles of alienation and despair continue.

Our society has become morbidly fast paced and so result oriented, those who don’t fit the mold are simply ostracized.

I want to surround myself with people, not stuff.

An Occupational Therapist in Action