[TatorTot]

I just relocated to a different state and I am church shopping to find just the right fit. When I do get involved do I tell them about my bipolar? I have had circumstances several times in the past that I was being prayed for, and the bipolar was to go away. It is almost like they are saying " we will pray for you and everyone goes thru this, and it will pass" Others have seen it as a demonic entity.....ugh!!

I am opting out of telling anyone about it. After all lots of people have illnesses some maybe be mental, others are physical and they don't tell anyone.

I guess I question, the same thing others do if God is so great, loving and understanding how come I have it.

[LostMom3]

I don't see why you would have to tell. There is not anything about your illness that would affect them. If you become close with some members ater, then you can decide to tell or not based on closeness of the relationship.((Hugs))

[Leed]

Tator Tot - To answer your question -- God doesn't cause these illnesses, like BiPolar. These things just happen, whether it's thru the genes, or the environment or whatever. But He doesn't cause ANY illnessees!! These are ALL "man made." They've all evolved thru millions of years.

[Thunder Bow]

No need to tell the Church. The reactions you discribed sounds like they came out of the dark ages.

[likewater]

If you find someone at church you really trust that can support you tell, if not don't. I go to a very supportive church and i've told two people in confidence my dx of DID because I had a specific
spiritual concern, and they kept what I said in the strictest confidence and don't judge me. Just remember your dx is nothing to hide or be ashamed of.

[possum220]

Stay away from those who "see" things. Certainly make friends but keep in regular contact with your doctor or those who are treating your illness.

The lack of knowledge mental illness in some churches is staggering. But they have no problem supporting those with a physical illness in going to a doctor.

I got burnt very badly. Keep things close to your chest so your won't get pounced on. Sad but true.

[peaches100]

I have had very bad experiences with sharing my mental illness with people in my religion, even those i considered good friends. It's not that they are bad people. But their attempts to "help" often made things worse for me. They simply do not understand what it's about: that it's an ILLNESS, just like diabetes or cancer.

You can't just pray more, or be more spiritual, or have a more positive attitude and it will go away. But so many people think it's just a matter of trying harder, getting tough with yourself, or that you need to change your attitude.

Be very careful who you tell. And if you do, maybe keep it brief, just saying something like "I struggle with depression sometimes."

Also, be careful about telling people in the congregation if you go to a therapist. Some congregation members where I go don't agree with going to a counselor for help and wisdom with mental problems. . .even though they have no problems going to a doctor for medical illnesses. They think as long as you trust in God, you should not need a counselor.

I hope for the day when we can tell people about our inner struggles and have them understand and not judge us. But the world in general has a long way to go before they really understand mental illness and how to support those who have it.

[wolfesgirl_1114]

•That is a spiritual journey in & of itself.Finding your foundation in a new location! Perhaps a suggestion,simply let your higher power lead you! In my opinion, you shouldn't have to justify your mental statis to anyone unless it affects them. That would be your only responsibility & even then, reserving that info would benefit in most cases.
Healing energies to you~


"Time is Love"

[tokiwartooth]

I never told anyone at my church about my problems. I don't think there's a reason for you or I to tell anyone at church. I just go there to find peace in God and leave it at that. I'm afraid of how they'd react to me as well.

[arachnophobia.kid]

I believe that sometimes God allows bad things in order for us to grow stronger, both in our faith and in our relationship with Him.

I would say tell the people at your new church when you are comfortable to do so. I'm sure they will accept you and if they don't then maybe find yourself another church. For me, to talk to people about what I'm going through has always turned out for the better in the end, I always feel comforted and relieved once it's out there. Though it's hard to admit to my problems at first it ends up being worth it to share. That's what church and community is all about I think, lifting each other up and helping each other along the way.

All the best to you.

- A