In essence, the statement suggests that once someone has been diagnosed with a mental illness and this diagnosis is recorded in their medical history, any subsequent statements or claims they make might be disregarded as simply symptoms of their condition. This implies that such individuals are often viewed skeptically by others who may doubt the validity or sincerity of what they say.
Digging deeper into the quote, it highlights the societal stigma associated with mental health diagnoses and how this can influence interpersonal interactions and perceptions. The statement underscores a broader issue where mental illness labels can lead to a dismissive attitude toward an individual's thoughts and feelings, potentially impacting their credibility in various aspects of life. This not only affects personal relationships but also professional settings, where people might be perceived as less reliable or trustworthy due to preconceived notions about mental health conditions.
Hilary Mantel was a renowned British author known for her historical fiction novels, particularly "Wolf Hall" and its sequel "Bring Up the Bodies," which won prestigious literary awards. Her writing often explored complex themes of power, politics, and human nature, reflecting deep insight into the intricacies of human psychology and societal structures.
