[Citrine]

Without the intention of causing ANY offence just generally speaking, must we excuse others with their defence they have a mental/personality problem? Like my depression and low self esteem mean Im a little low on myself most of the time, what about people I encounter that have problems that damage me? Much worse than my being down on myself (which is quite honestly selfish of anyone to feel affected especially as can put on my clowns outfit when Im around others) When I think about the people that have ripped a piece from me by knowing them they have poss had serious personality disorders. Leaving me worse off than I was am I supposed to shrug my shoulders, fearful to offend and accept the assault on what there is of me?

Are you asking if it's ok to accept someone that has been horrible to you because they possibly have a personality disorder?

I guess that you put 'possibly' would be a factor here.. and how long they've been doing it although I tend to lean towards tearing apart someone is never acceptable. If they know they have a problem and the willingness to get some professional help would be a tad easier to cut some slack but your following bit:

Originally Posted by Citrine

Leaving me worse off than I was am I supposed to shrug my shoulders, fearful to offend and accept the assault on what there is of me?

Makes me say they are doing it too much? As you're a person who has depression and low self-esteem, then can I say to try and keep away from these types of people where possible? I think you should try to look after yourself first and foremost as you've your own issues to deal with. It will be hard to ever improve if someone like this is in your life.

Hugs

[healingme4me]

Originally Posted by Citrine

must we excuse others with their defence they have a mental/personality problem?
?

No, each one of use, has to take personal responsibility for our behaviors.

Are others doing you wrong, then saying, something to the effect, Don't blame me, blame the disorder?

There's a line to be drawn. For instance, saying, wow, I am really sorry I said something like that, wasn't feeling myself, I will try to not do that again, etc etc. And not doing that, it's one thing. We have bad days, we are human. It's when it's over and over again, the damage is done.

If this/these people are wreaking havoc with your own struggles, reexamining how necessary in your life they are, isn't a bad idea.