Posted by SLS on November 26, 2006, at 15:30:47
In reply to Re: It's Treatable. No, it's not. » SLS, posted by linkadge on November 26, 2006, at 13:52:58
> I wouldn't err on the side of thinking a person is happy, because if they are, there is nothing bad will happen.
I disagree. I think that having such an outlook will impact adversely the quality of life of the person who holds such a negative view, both mentally and physically. It must surely promote depression and cynicism, which in turn promotes heart disease and reduces immune system function.
> OTOH if you assume they are unhappy, then you might be able to help more people.
I understand what you are saying here. What if one were to become better able to recognize unhappiness just as they are able to recognize happiness? Then, they wouldn't have to resort to a default position such as erring on the side of believing that everyone is unhappy. Do you feel it is your duty in life to help everyone become happy or preventing everyone from committing suicide? If so, then you may well have chosen for yourself a noble profession for which I believe recognizing the existence of happiness might prove useful. Even if you do choose to be a mental health professional, I believe it is unhealthy to walk the streets assuming unhappiness in every face you come upon just so that you don't overlook a psychiatric emergency. You must maintain your own mental health before you can attend to the health of others. You will have to find balance.
> My parents assume I am happy. Who could possably know me better than my parents? And if they are wrong, then.....
I have no doubt that the people in your life have difficulty in recognizing your unhappiness. You say that your parents assume that you are happy. Do they assume this despite your attempts to communicate to them otherwise? What have you said to them?
- Scott
poster:SLS
thread:706067
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20061123/msgs/707461.html