Its my understanding that in general all the boards and other pages on psych central is open to the public whether they are mental disordered or not.. I read a post somewhere probably in the support and feedback boards where Doc John explained he opened psych central to the search engines so that people can find psych central.

that said in regards to this board here (Dissociative disorders) again its open for anyone not just those with dissociative disorders or one set disorder. I have read some of the older posts where some students have come asking questions and some people who know others with the disorder have come here asking questions/ help and support.

my opinion is that Im glad all walks of life not just the mentally disordered are welcome on psych central. in general the more people learn about mental disorders the less stigmatizing/bullying happens of/to those that are mental disordered, plus what better way for the mentally ill to learn about mental disorders then from their family, friends and treatment providers that may have come across psych central, and in doing so became educated in dissociative disorders so that they can help point their friends, family towards treatment and knowing they are not alone.

maybe its because here in NY where I live and work we accept everyone, black white, physically handicapped, the mentally disorder or just any person regardless of race, politics, normal, physically and mentally challenged..but i believe its ok for anyone to whether they are dissociative or not to be here.

Im also this open minded about my posts here on psych central because doc john has been upfront letting everyone know this website is searchable and everyone is allowed to see whats on these boards, including those that are not members on psych central, so I have never had a problem with having people in general coming on the dissociative boards and reading. I just take care of what Im posting, I dont post things I wouldnt want anyone outside of my family and friends to see.

if theres something you are afraid that others outside of psych central will see, you can let the moderators know and they will delete the posts for you.