Hi,

I've noticed that each time I try to talk about these things to others, they seem to back away from me immediately. It's like they are scared that I might psychoanalyze them or something when truth of the matter is I like talking about these subject matters since I have friends who suffer from Autism (Aspergers), Bipolar and Schizophrenia. The reason I want to talk about these things is to know how I can better deal with my friends or people who have it like how to be more understanding with each mood swing etc. But then later on, I find out that these people who I try to talk to have it in their families or they themselves and are in the closet so to speak.

Thanks for reading.

[jelly-bean]

Unfortunately many people are still frightened when it comes to mental illnesses. It is a very misunderstood subject that some people are uncomfortable discussing. It isn't taboo but you need to find people who are receptive to your questions or observations.

Hi GT2015,

I have schizophrenia, and I welcome conversation about schizophrenia.

Hello Jelly-Bean and Kindness,

Thank you very much for your replies.

Very helpful!

Cheers,
GT

[Frankbtl]

Hi GT2015, I'd say that it's great that you want to understand/more understanding, so please don't let those peoples reactions put you off, good on you!!!
It might be that those people aren't used to talking about those topics, have felt judged in the past, want to keep their experiences private or don't want to be seen as anything other than "what you see"..............but maybe if you talked to them about why you're interested and some of your experiences with, or thoughts about, your friends (if you haven't already!!) they may feel more comfortable in talking to you/opening up on those topics.
But then again there are people out there who just don't "get it", don't want to "get it", don't want to know or talk about it.........and a lot of misconceptions out there as well.
So maybe try talking a little more to people, or if you need to move on and find some better people to talk to..........including us on PC!!!
Welcome!!!
Alison

[gayleggg]

I find mental health to be a hard subject to talk about with other. Like a have a friend who's brother is suffering from mental illness, but she is tired of his drama so it makes her negative on the subject. I've found people really back off when I tell them I'm bipolar. I gotten to where I won't tell anyone unless I get to know them really well.

However, I do post helpful info on facebook regarding mental illness awareness. People can either read it or ignore it but I put it out there. I do the same for breast cancer, since I am a survivor. I don't post a lot about these issues but I do share some items.

[Thunder Bow]

Do not try to anyalize one if they do not want it. Wait for one to ask for help.

[avlady]

One thing i don't get is when my old friends used to say, "oh you are normal, and there is no such thing as mental illness, we all have our own problems." that advice is the worst ever. i never would have rebelled if i thought it was valid, i mean the mental health system. i finally realized on my own i do have problems like even schitzophrenia, which i would have gotten help for sooner if people would have suggested docs and such. i will listen to myself from now on.