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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 7 of 7. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by Cece on May 28, 2002, at 11:47:37
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
Posted by XaosSurfer on May 28, 2002, at 12:55:37
In reply to Public disclosure of psychiatric disorders, posted by Cece on May 28, 2002, at 11:47:37
Cece,
I will be in a similar situation soon. Here is my thinking. I sometimes feel like going public with my full name is honourable and credible. It puts a face on depression and helps other sufferers recognize themselves. However, it does put myself at risk. I run my own business and it could be embarrasing or even cost business.
I have concluded, for now, that I do not have the kind of profile that raises the profile of an issue. I am one of the sufferers. There is little to be gained using my name and much to be lost.
Paul
Posted by Rudiger on May 28, 2002, at 15:29:29
In reply to Public disclosure of psychiatric disorders, posted by Cece on May 28, 2002, at 11:47:37
If your work "superiors" and co-workers are generally understanding and compassionate, I would say go for it, since their respect for you can only be enhanced by a candid disclosure of your disorder and challenges. In the immediate future, however, full disclosure will always entail some risk. This last "closet" needs to be destroyed posthaste because the stigma and shame are killing literally thousands of people every day, and those of us with these disorders owe it to the coming generations to do away with them as quickly as possible. Keep this in mind: almost every person on this green earth either themselves is struggling with a "mood" disorder or is close to someone who is.
Posted by mashogr8 on May 28, 2002, at 17:11:39
In reply to Re: Public disclosure of psychiatric disorders, posted by Rudiger on May 28, 2002, at 15:29:29
I would stay as anonymous as possible. There is a code of ethics in my profession which, if strictly interpreted, would require that I no longer practice. It's archaic but that's how it is. Explaining my fight with depression is worthwhile. Remaining unknown does not lessen the tale.
ma
Posted by jane d on May 29, 2002, at 0:04:58
In reply to Public disclosure of psychiatric disorders, posted by Cece on May 28, 2002, at 11:47:37
I think it is one thing to tell people that you know but, if your real name is used in the NY Times you are making this information available to everyone in the future who knows how to do a computer search. You are relinquishing to right to choose not to be open about this in the future. You are also linking your real name to your posts here for any of us that read both babble and the NY Times. It's not a risk I would be willing to take myself or would ask anyone else to take.
Looking forward to reading the article!
Jane
Posted by Cece on May 29, 2002, at 2:29:13
In reply to Not in an archived newspaper » Cece, posted by jane d on May 29, 2002, at 0:04:58
I really want to thank everyone who has responded to my post- the feedback has been immensely helpful. Thanks for taking the time.
I have come to peace with the question and am opting for first name (only) I.D. by a very obscure and very old nickname, general location, and general age. The location and age are relevant to the story- my name isn't I've realized. I feel that this way takes care of my own needs and still might help others.
The RSAD story will be part of a special supplement on women's health (even though men also experience it) that will come out in the NY Times sometime next month.
Cece
Posted by omega man on June 1, 2002, at 23:09:46
In reply to Public disclosure of psychiatric disorders, posted by Cece on May 28, 2002, at 11:47:37
I had this exact discussion with my "boss" as I have really heavy S.A.D. along with quite a few things..but this is the biggie as far how I can work...
Our conversation basically went like he said..don't tell anyone you have this problem ...and I said..but I know that this will hit me every year...so I have to tell people Who I plan to work for..
My mother says the same thing..dont tell potential employers..
many people do seem to react like "oh we all get like that in winter"..
mmnn like you cant get up to feed..or do anything and nothing would make you happy ??
I did a S.A.D. self assesment from New york hospital...its availible as PDF ...availible as search on google..it proves to people who need to see it in black and white...
my dream is to live down under in the winter or somewhere equally bright...I might try having a sunbed as room lighting this time round..
This is the end of the thread.
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