[splitimage]

I got a confirmation e-mail Sat. from my psychiatric hospital saying that I'd been confirmed by the Board of Governor's as a Consumer Rep on one of the hospital's governing committees - The Consituencies committee.

This is a relatively big deal as I'll be able to vote on stuff affecting hospital policy, and will be my first real role as a consumer advocate. I don't know how many applicants they had for the spot but I had to apply and be selected for consideration, and then endorsed by the hospital's empowerment council.

When I first applied - it was back in Dec. and I was still feeling relatively ok about being open about my MH issues. After having the bad experience at my last job and fired almost immediately after disclosing my MH and addictions history, I'm now a lot more nervous about it.

I guess I have 2 worries - getting my name in the papers while I'm job hunting, since I'm job hunting I really don't want anyone knowing my MH history and having to arrange to take time off work for when the committee meets. Their first meeting which is an all day event, is during the day. I'm going to e-mail them back and ask approximately how often the committee meets. But it could be a problem. Oh well, I'll deal with that later.

I think I'm still going to go for it, despite the potential complications, because I'm really interested in MH issues, and I think it's a really big honour to be chosen to represent consumers at Canada's biggest psych hospital. Plus it'll get me access to and involvement in other province wide MH initiatives. Who knows what that might lead to?

I'm mostly excited, but I have reservations too.

--splitimage

[lynn P.]

This sounds like a great opportunity and congratulations splitimage. I think it's natural to feel intimidated with an unfamiliar job change. As you get settled I'm sure you'll feel better. Best of luck.

Hello, splitimage. I expect most people will have a bit of nerves when encountering a new experience. You historically have done the work to prepare yourself to be a viable member able to make informed comments and to offer thoughtful perspectives regarding the issues under consideration.

I expect you will grow into the job and be a valued consumer representative.

Good luck.

[Perna]

I was wondering if anyone potentially reading your name in the paper, or possible employers knowing of your position and maybe having to agree to give you time off from work would have to know that you were a consumer, just because you are a consumer's rep? That you are interested in "hospitals" and "mental health", you could have, or have had, a family member with a problem, etc.; I'd treat it as if you were a board member of a large, important organization (any sort of hospital!) and use it to help get jobs! You are out there in the community and working hard for those less able to speak for themselves, etc. Be proud, as you should be!

[Leed]

I would assume it just as Perna described it. I would NOT take it as you are the patient. Be proud of your achievement and try not to worry about the rest. I'm sure it will all work out just fine. Best of luck and God bless. Hugs, Lee

[madisgram]

i can only add CONGRATULATIONS, splitimage!!!