I'm talking about it

It has pretty much gotten around that I am off work on psychiatric leave (although, honestly, my physical issues ARE part of why I'm on leave).

As a journalist, I've tried to advocate for various causes throughout my career. I've done interviews, opinion columns and editorials about all kinds of things - domestic violence, drug and alcohol addiction (from a sympathetic point of view), breast cancer, childhood cancer, autism spectrum disorders, sexually transmitted diseases, etc. I've always felt that openness and understanding helped fight stigma (though some of these topics obviously involved concealing the victim's identity).

You know what? We deserve understanding, too. We shouldn't suffer in silence, either. It's hypocritical for me to advocate understanding for others, but hide my own pain.

So, I've started being blunt.

"Why aren't you at work right now?"
"Because I suffer from several mental illnesses and right now, they've come to a head. I had to have a break for treatment."

Boom! Conversation with a sympathetic person started or gossiper stunned silent.

When I return to work, if it's okay with my boss, I'm going to start a series on mental illness.

I'm not suggesting you guys do the same - I've just decided this is what I think is best for me, personally.

Whoot Whoot!! You go! Who better to be a voice than one in your field?

You have been given a gift with your vocational skills...so go and do another great piece...this one close to home and to the heart.:)

S.C.

You may want to reference "An Unquiet Mind," written by a professor at Johns Hopkins who suffers from bipolar.

Very interesting read, and highly recommended.

It seems to have more impact when written by a professional who is being authentic.


Sookie

I also find that being honest with people is better. Since my health anxiety has been so bad lately, I have been pretty down. My boss was asking me what was wrong and I told him I was having "medical issues". After he asked me about 6 times if I was better, I finally told him the real issue and it was like a load off my mind just letting him know the truth. He was very understanding.

I only wish it were that easy for all anxiety sufferers - no matter what form of anxiety you suffer (health, social, general, etc.)

Good luck with the series. I am sure it would be helpful to so many more like us who live in fear and shame thinking no one will understand how they feel.

Thanks for the encouragement, guys!