Psycho Donuts' Mockery of Mental Illness is Not Funny

RE: “Protesters of Campbell's Psycho Donut shop focus on mental health issues in demonstration” published May 11.

As a person who has first-hand experience with mental illness and its devastating effects on the lives of those who suffer from the disease and their families, I am appalled at the use of mental health terms for commercialization sake by Psycho Donuts.

The inappropriate use of labels such as “bipolar,” “massive head trauma” and “manic malt” is cruel, insensitive and an affront to those who suffer from mental illness and their families. Many people do not seek help for their mental illness because of the stigma and mockery they face from the public.

Psycho Donuts’ ridiculing of mental illness is not funny… it is cruel and hurtful and serves to further the stigma associated with a physical brain disorder that is not a choice. Using mental health terms to promote a commercial enterprise keeps the stigma of mental illness alive. Psycho Donuts’ owners Kip Berdiansky and Jordan Zweigoron should consider this — Would making fun of individuals with physical disabilities or a specific race or religion be appropriate? We are hoping the owners do the right thing — stop the offensive use of mental health terms and themes to sell their products and offer an apology to those suffering from mental illness.

Sincerely,


Oscar Wright
Chief Executive Officer
United Advocates for Children and Families