[Soul Quake]

This is something I've been debating for awhile now. I have schizoaffective disorder. I've been hospitalized four times for different mental health issues. I've been unemployed for years.

I attend a weekly Bible study and have befriended two people there. We've known each other for about 4 years. Unfortunately this disorder is part of my life and I kind of want to let them know what's going on. But I'm not sure if that's a wise decision.

The topic of mental health has been been brought up by others before. My one friend said something about how it should be spoken about as opposed to being ashamed. She also has a mother with bipolar so she understands somewhat.

I have disclosed my anxiety and depression to the entire group. In turn my friend said to call her if I need to talk.

I'm wondering if I don't let them know that I am just perpetuating the stigma that mental health issues should be ashamed or hidden.

I don't really know what to do at this point. I'm hoping some of you can relate and offer up some insight. Thank you.

[curley]

Originally Posted by Soul Quake

This is something I've been debating for awhile now. I have schizoaffective disorder. I've been hospitalized four times for different mental health issues. I've been unemployed for years.

I attend a weekly Bible study and have befriended two people there. We've known each other for about 4 years. Unfortunately this disorder is part of my life and I kind of want to let them know what's going on. But I'm not sure if that's a wise decision.

The topic of mental health has been been brought up by others before. My one friend said something about how it should be spoken about as opposed to being ashamed. She also has a mother with bipolar so she understands somewhat.

I have disclosed my anxiety and depression to the entire group. In turn my friend said to call her if I need to talk.

I'm wondering if I don't let them know that I am just perpetuating the stigma that mental health issues should be ashamed or hidden.

I don't really know what to do at this point. I'm hoping some of you can relate and offer up some insight. Thank you.

My thought is.....will it help you to tell them? Will it help them to understand you if you tell them. And...No you should not be ashamed of your health issues, but my thought is, why tell anyone if they do not need to know. If your illness has not affected these relationships I personally do not understand why you think they should know about it!

[Crazy Hitch]

It's one of those questions with no absolute right or wrong answer, for too many reasons for me to mention.

If you're not sure if it's a wise decision, maybe don't rush into anything just yet. Because once you've said it, it's out there and you won't be able to retract what you've said.

On the other hand, you have known them for 4 years and have somewhat discussed MI before.

If you choose not to tell them; I don't personally see it as perpetuating the stigma; but I do see your point.

There are a number of personal reasons I don't disclose my MI to others.