Mad Pride
Mad Pride
Mad Pride is a movement that celebrates the identities and experiences of people with mental health differences, challenging stigma and discrimination. It overlaps with neurodiversity by affirming that mental variation is part of human diversity.
Why it matters
Mad Pride reframes "madness" as a source of strength, creativity, and community, not just pathology. It encourages writers to depict mental health differences with nuance and dignity.
Writing Tips
- Show characters finding pride and solidarity in their mental health identities.
- Challenge stereotypes of "madness" as dangerous or pitiable.
Example
Example "She wore her diagnosis like a badge, swapping stories with friends who understood the wildness of her mind." Why it works: Emphasises community and self-acceptance.
Common Pitfalls
- Reducing characters to their diagnosis.
- Using mental health as a plot device for tragedy or villainy.