I like to think that only those I care about, and am close to, know that I am coping with paranoid schizophrenia. But, in reality, I live in a small town and I’m pretty sure EVERYBODY knows. It’s likely that complete strangers whom I have never even heard of know about my condition. News spreads like wildfire in small towns, and I’m not immune to their gossip.
I come from a big family and I’m pretty sure they have told everyone THEY know. I want so much to keep my illness private. But, it’s like trying to catch a tidal wave. It all slipped through my fingers.
Does it bother you that people know you are severely mentally ill?
I feel the same way, @Katherine85 There is so much stigma attached to those with schizophrenia and other severe mental illnesses. Such complete ignorance. I know I am mentally disabled, but I know I have good potential. I am NOT “psycho” or “schizo”. I am human, like everyone else, and we are all coping with our own issues. Mental illness just happens to be mine.
I live in a small town too, with a population of 600 people. I don’t venture out as I feel as though I have “Schizophrenic” tattooed on my forehead and everyone is staring at me. I am hoping that once my confidence increases with the help of my support person and family I will no longer feel this way.
I hide behind a hat and a scarf. Luckily, it’s still quite cold here. I hate the summer because I feel so exposed. I’d love to wear a balaclava, but here in Ireland, I’d probably be arrested for suspected terrorism.
Those that know me well know I am mentally ill. In the early years I lived in a small village and my parents weren’t backwards in coming forwards re my initial diagnosis of schizophrenia .
I have only told my family, but when I was working my bosses knew. The one I trusted had to tell his boss, but he never told any coworkers. Some how they found out and it became hard to talk and work with them. My boss also stood up to management for me and got me on a disability retirement, but it cost him his supervisor position. Now when I go out I feel guilty and ashamed of my sz.
I honestly wish more people knew about my schizoaffective - without the stigmas attached, of course. I wish I could answer honestly with how I’m feeling and how my condition is affecting me that day the same way someone with arthritis can say how their condition is affecting them that day. Y’know?
But the reality is that there is still so much misunderstanding about psychotic disorders. So, in that context, no… I’m glad only a few people know. I still wish my in-laws knew, though. Maybe someday.
I know what you mean @Blossom I’m rarely asked how I’m doing. It’s like people are afraid to ask. I’m not going to go into a rage or bite their heads off. I ALWAYS ask how people are doing.
