Posted by Angela2 on June 30, 2014, at 16:31:46
In reply to dating with a mental illness, posted by Roslynn on June 30, 2014, at 15:20:49
Hi Roslynn,
I think everyone should be able to date. Not just those who are "mentally sound." If you're taking care of yourself and your health, that's all that matters in my opinion. So I'd say, if you're hesitant about dating, because you worry you might be a burden on the person you dateget that thought out of your head. If you're getting that thought from other people, anyway. Only you know when you're ready to date.
I have struggled with depression for years and I date, and I don't see myself as a burden. Also I think that if you have a mental health issue, it can be a chance for someone who is dating you, to learn about you, and love you even more. Or vice versa, if you are dating someone with a mental health issue.
I'm not saying I know everything. Or that it's not difficult. I have social anxiety, and for a long time, it was and still is in some ways, hard for me to be in a serious relationship because of all the stresses that come along with it. But that's what I want, a serious relationship, so I'm working on myself first.
I am in a place where I feel like I don't need to date right now. But for a long time, a few years up until recently, it was the opposite. I was very lonely and needed the company of someone. Now I'm learning what I like, and love, and my passions and what is meaningful to me.it's fun. And I'm doing it alone.
When would I tell someone I'm dating about my illness? I'd personally not say it on the first date :P and just read the person. If we start to get close, I will tell. I don't really feel too ashamed of having depression and anxiety. My other diagnoses though, can be uncomfortable telling, because I myself am not comfortable with what they "mean," and I worry that the other person might not "Get it," or will judge me.
It's too bad about mental health and the stigma. :(
I hope I gave you at least some coherent advice and didn't babble too much. Psycho babble, lol, I made a pun :)Take care.
poster:Angela2
thread:1067671
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20140621/msgs/1067677.html