Posted by deirdrehbrt on January 8, 2004, at 10:38:48
In reply to Re: get creative, posted by Omega Woman on January 7, 2004, at 14:18:31
Well, as a full member to the GLBT community, I would (perhaps through folly), like to add a bit here.
I don't doubt that there is a bit more mental illness in the GLBT community. First, the 'T' section. By being transgendered, one is by definition mentally ill. It's unfortunate, but it's still in the DSM-IV. This has been a huge problem for transgendered individuals, as the transsexual seeking treatment is diagnosed, and is mentally ill. If the rules were to change, then the transsexual would seek treatment, but insurance wouldn't cover it (hormones, etc.) and the individual remains trapped.As far as others are concerned, I don't doubt that the Lesbian and Gay people, as well as the transgendered and questioning who have been out for some time could indeed suffer from depression, and other personality 'disorders'. My own experience of beatings during school, and on the street, are doubtfully very different from others, and growing up like that is quite likely to cause a distrust and anger toward society. There can be huge outpourings of anger toward a god, or pleading questions as to why did I have to be born this way. Some of us were admonished and damned by our clergy.
None of this is in the recipe for raising a healthy child, is it? So, while we may suffer with 'mental illnes', it isn't because we 'Chose' to be born this way. It isn't 'Because' we are Gay, Lesbian, Bi, or Trans. It is, in my opinion, a result of what we suffered at the hands of the 'Strait' contingent that thought us evil. I'm not condemning all strait people, just the ones who for whatever reason have decided that anything else is wrong. It's just like any other form of abuse.
there's my nickel's worth.
Dee.
poster:deirdrehbrt
thread:296268
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20031229/msgs/298074.html