Posted by JohnL on August 31, 2000, at 4:48:44
In reply to keeping taking antidepressants a secret.., posted by T~ on August 29, 2000, at 9:14:54
> i really dont have an answer for this but i have been keeping my doctor visits and being on celexa a secret from my family and friends, kids included.
> i guess part of me doesnt want them to treat me differently, i suppose that is the biggest reason.
>
> anyone one else out there feeling the way i am?
> support is needed
> T~Yeah, I hear you. Actually my closest family members are aware of my depression, though I keep them removed from knowing when I see a doctor and stuff like that. I take my medication at times when people are in another room. They are understanding, yet impotent, at being able to help. So I've found it best for a variety of reasons to leave my loved ones out of the loop. There's nothing they can do anyway, and I don't want them to feel the pain, suffering, and frustration of the whole process.
With friends and co-workers, I keep my depression and medication strictly secret. No one knows. There are just too many stigmas and negative reactions that could occur. If a company ever needs to lay off workers for example, I would bet those with known psychiatric problems would be the first to go. I know that's discrimination, but they'll find some excuse to get around it. Happens all the time.
Though some people would disagree, I agree with you completely. It is a personal struggle, and in reality there is very little any one can do to help. If one needs to talk, it is best done with a counselor, not a family member, friends, or co-workers. Our loved ones do not have the knowledge or training to be able to handle it. And even in their best efforts, they usually end up saying all the wrong things that results in you feeling even worse.
John
poster:JohnL
thread:43990
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000822/msgs/44138.html