2 of 6

Yes

Write now Article Tools

Of course they ought to have the choice. It is apparent they have the freedom to make their own decisions as long as they do not hurt themselves or the general public. Their relationship is between the two of them and compatible with their mental problems. If there are no consequences to society, what is the downside?

When people with mental disabilities connect and fall in love, it is good for the social fabric of our society. Their connection and caring understanding of the issues involved can be a protective influence, a chance to be together in a positive way. Our society is deficient in resources for people with mental illness. If there is love, marriage ought to be accessible as a result. Marriage is between the two people involved and everyone has the right to marry.

There are many individuals who have married, who are not considered mentally ill, yet we do not perceive them in a similar way. They are successful in our culture; however, their marriages are disposed and disintegrate like paper in a shredder. Perhaps there is no diagnosis of mental illness. Yet, the signs are clear. Or perhaps not. Think about Scott Peterson, O.J. Simpson, Rabbi Newlander, etc. Considered "sane", they were convicted of murdering their spouse(s). They are only a sample of those who love and kill.

Others don't murder, they simply ruin (or try to) the life of the "other". Consider Charlie Sheen, Alec Baldwin, and their outright public malicious recriminations of ex-wives and children. Are they mentally challenged?

Is mental illness a loss of the ability to love? Do others who consider those who have this diagnosis unable to love in the way they want them to live taint their right to truly love? Is it threatening in some way? Are there fears about the display of two people who are different, who are not considered inclusive in our society? Are disabled people unable to make a commitment? Is there a difference?

That is the most important factor. Fear. We are in the midst of less than fifty percent of marriages (in general) being successful, yet those defined with mental illness have another, rigid, standard that they are held up to. It is an insult to those who are loved, who love, who need a companion and a partner, but are not considered "normal" based on behavior, blood tests, ignorance, chemical imbalances, or clinical depression. Along with many other diagnostic testing that would consider them mentally ill.

Remember,

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Can people with a mental illness successfully marry??
We want to hear your view. Write now!