Posted by sadie evans on November 1, 2002, at 12:03:46
In reply to Public disclosure of psychiatric disorder, posted by Cece on May 28, 2002, at 18:32:25
Hi Cece,
I am new to this group and just posted a reply to another of your messages. I am amazed to find someone with a similar profile. I also have Bipolar II with "summer-winter variant" SAD. I do poorly with less light in the winter, and also do poorly with increased heat in the summer. I would love to read the article--could you tell me where to find it? thanks,
Sadie
I'm posting this to both P-B and P-S-B:
>
> I have been interviewed by the NY Times for a story about Reverse Seasonal Affective Disorder
> (summertime crash with depression, anxiety, desperation).
>
> I am BPII, and did not feel that I could speak meaningfully about my RSAD without talking about my
> BPII disorder- I believe that they are connected as both are cycling disorders. Also, the mood
> stabilizers and TCA that I take have helped substancially in lessening my RSAD symptoms and have
> given me the ability to manage them better.
>
> I am struggling with the issue as to whether to fully identify myself in the article or to remain
> completely anonymous, or to be identified by an old nickname that almost noone knows, general
> location and general age. All options are available to me. So far I have chosen the partial ID.
>
> There is still, even in this day and age much fear of and prejudice and judgement about psychiatric
> disorders. I am very careful who I discuss my disorders with- some people just don't get it at all, and
> some are even suspicious that I am just exaggerating everyone's normal 'ups and downs'. Other
> people want to debate it with me and put me on the spot.
>
> I have fears that my career could be affected. I don't want to jeopardize my financial security- just
> having these disorders has jeopardized it enough. I want to do what is best for me, and I don't want
> to try to be a hero.
>
> But, on the other hand, I feel it is important to speak out and as much
> as possible to come out of the closet. It adds legitimacy to my story,
> and gives verification that I am a real and not made up person to give
> my full name. It might help others in the same boat to gain courage and
> to feel less ashamed about having an 'invisible disability'.
>
> What would you do? Has anyone else been in this position?
>
> I have to make this decision quickly, I believe by tommorow (Wednesday). Quick feedback would be
> very appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
> Cece
poster:sadie evans
thread:24808
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20021022/msgs/31904.html