Posted by Bob on February 26, 2007, at 12:51:02 [reposted on February 27, 2007, at 8:33:57 | original URL]
In reply to Re: Embarrassed of my disease! » Crazy Horse, posted by scratchpad on February 26, 2007, at 12:42:41
I too am quite ashamed of my situation and condition. I'm almost 39, and have not worked for about 4 years now. The last years of my job were hell.
I always have trouble explaining to others what is wrong, and dread all such moments. Even when I can broach the subject, it often is awkward to explain to someone with no concept of mental illness what is going on. There is a tendency to simplify explanations which leads to it almost sounding like a fabrication. There are actually acquaintances I've had for years that I've never even told I'm disabled. Heck, even people who are close to me and now I have a problem often don't fully comprehend my limitations. It's unbelievable. Any other obviously physical disease would not have these issues surrounding it.
I guess other diseases must have a "guilt" type of component to them, but for me depression is severe in that respect. I can rationalize that it is a disease that is not my fault, but sometimes the notion can creep in that I would be a "better" person if I didn't have this condition. It's ridiculous.
poster:Bob
thread:736724
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20070223/msgs/736726.html