When people already have a negative idea about you from what they heard, that is called being stigmatized. Google defines being stigmatized as “Describe or regard as worthy of disgrace or great disapproval.” Being a person who is stigmatized sucks. When you have to carry around that feeling of being unworthy, it can hurt. Some days, you might not want to get out of bed. These feelings can lead to self-destructive behavior and depression.

Most people aren’t stigmatized for what they have done but what has happened to them. A good number of people i have found to have been stigmatized are victims of a crime. In our society, it is common to champion the criminals and to victim blame. With so many people aspiring to be the worst of the worst individuals leaving the victims broken. To add insult to injury, they gloat and brag about their crimes. With a vast number of ear that are willing to listen and honor the criminals words. These people will champion the criminal and stigmatize the victim. This people victim blame and beat down the victim while holding the abuser on a pedestal.

These facts are unfortunate but true. The only thing a person can do is keep pushing on despite the ridicule. It’s difficult, but that’s the only thing I can think of that might must be done. You have to be strong and press forward. Going to therapy can help. There are support groups that can help heal wounds. But these are all band-aids. Being stigmatized hurts, and most people just have to keep pushing despite the pain. Just remember this to will pass with time.

After a while, the stigmatization will pass. It’s not cool having to go through being a victim and being blamed for crime against committed against you. That just how this world works. Don’t let it end you. If you do, you’re giving them what they want.