When I first started struggling with my mental health I kept it as secret as possible and would only tell someone if they actually realised I wasn't ok. It took several years and an OD for most people to see what's up with me. Even then I still tried to keep it a secret.

I think I used to hide it because I was scared of how people would treat me. I thought if they knew they would suddenly start acting completely different around me and I would constantly be reminded that I'm not "normal." As time has gone on and more people have found out that hasn't been the case at all. I'm very lucky to have caring and supportive friends and family.

Part of me is considering sharing my issues on facebook... I think I'm just fed up with all the lies and secrecy and I feel like if everyone knew they would understand more why I do certain things.

What do you think? Is this a good or terrible idea??

[Pierro]

Aren't you better off telling those close to you, family, friends. If all these people know about you, is that not enough.

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[*Laurie*]

Unfortunately, I have found that many people (especially older generations) still stigmatize mental illness. In my experience younger people are, in general, much more open-minded ('though some younger folks seem to stigmatize use of psych meds).

I'm wary of opening up too much to people, because I've had the experience of being called 'sick' and 'crazy' by certain family members who opted not to face some truths about themselves and chose, instead, to point fingers at me.

On the other hand, I have received support from friends and family members who are themselves in treatment.

So, I guess it all depends upon who it is you're opening up to. Best of luck, with whatever you choose to do.

I do agree with you both. I'm very wary of people judging me. Family and close friends do know, but there a lot of people who don't. Part of me thinks it will be easier to open up about what I have struggled with for the last 11 years than worrying about what people will assume is going on. I'd rather be open and stop people gossiping about what they think it might be..

[spring2014]

I'm more open to my therapist who knows how to handle my depression .I don't let anyone know about my illness if I don't know them well enough .








Diagnosis: Anxiety and depression
meds : Cymbalta 90mgs at night
Vistrail 2 25 mgs daily for anxiety prn
50 mgs at night for insomnia

[*Laurie*]

Originally Posted by hiddensecret

I do agree with you both. I'm very wary of people judging me. Family and close friends do know, but there a lot of people who don't. Part of me thinks it will be easier to open up about what I have struggled with for the last 11 years than worrying about what people will assume is going on. I'd rather be open and stop people gossiping about what they think it might be..

I had a co-worker who was totally open about his clinical depression and people were incredibly supportive. He was never the least bit apologetic or ashamed of his illness, so maybe his natural confidence reflected back on him. Or maybe he was simply seeking support from the right group of people. If you really feel that you'll receive the support you'd like, and not be adversely affected if people are jerks...go for it!

[Skeezyks]

Well... I'm not on Facebook. I never have been. Facebook scares me. But then I don't have any family or friends & I have never told anyone about my mental health issues. Only the mental health professionals I've seen, & my spouse, know. And they don't really want anything to do with it... so I'm probably not the best person to comment...

[TheOriginalMe]

I want to tell people in my new job but finding the right time and context is going to be hard. My last boss was such a **** when he found out and I don't want to go through that again, so I'd rather tell people when I am well. Other people at work were really kind and mostly they just want to know how to help. I Do think gossip is the worst part and as long as you are prepared for some people to take it badly I would say go for it, but Idk if Facebook is the best way of doing it.

Dont tell anyone on fb!!! Please, it will cause heartache when you are told NOBODY CARES.

Ive been told i embarassed myself by sharing i was anxious! The public dont get it.

Dont put yourself through it

Yeah I think I have changed my mind about the whole thing now. I don't really know why I thought it would be a good idea, I just had a totally different mindset. Felt I could do anything and everything would be great! Now I've come back down to earth and seeing things more clearly I guess...