2006-12-28 08:10:06 · 15 answers · asked by Sarah 2 in Health ➔ Mental Health
Depends on the situation and person. Unfortunately, many people still have a stigma against those with mental illness. At the workplace I wouldn't mention it because your boss and coworkers may blame any mistake you may make on your mental condition or view you as less competent. Also, if you are in the dating scene, I wouldn't mention it on a first date but only after you get to know them better and trust them so they don't misjudge you on first impressions. Regarding complete strangers it's none of their business. But outside of work, dating and complete strangers I admit to close friends and family that I am seeing a shrink and/or taking medication. Mental illnesses are just as real a condition as physical conditions such as diabetes. They are a disease of the brain. It is unfortunate that many people still have a stigma against mental illness even though it is caused by a chemical imbalance or disease of the brain. Everybody is different though. I have some friends who feel it is nobody's business whether they are seeing a shrink or not and they feel more comfortable keeping it private even from their family.
2006-12-28 08:30:59 · answer #1 · answered by Citygirl 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Seeing a "shrink" does not always mean you have mental health issues that are dangerous or embarrassing.
When I was going through some very serious, emotionally overwhelming times in my life, I saw one. Reason being, they are trained to teach therapeutic ways of dealing with and looking at outside pressures that help people to cope with their anxieties.
So - no- I would not be ashamed, I just would not run around telling everyone because so many people have no idea that "shrinks" do more than deal with totally unstable people.
People sometimes judge and assume you are unstable or weak because you got a little therapy. When in reality, it is a very stable thing to do.
2006-12-28 16:19:34 · answer #2 · answered by jamocha 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No. I used to see a psychologist once a month. I didn't tell anyone simply because I didn't have much of a social life. I've been seeing a psychiatrist once a month this year, and it's changed my life. (Incidentally, the difference is that psychologists cannot prescribe medication; psychiatrists can).
I would inform people that I'm seeing a "shrink" as I need help. There's no shame in admitting that you need help. We all do every now and then, at least.
2006-12-28 17:43:26 · answer #3 · answered by midjrsy 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I thought about seeing a shrink before because Im kinda curious to see what a "professional" would say. But Im really hesistant to even mention it to my friends or family. I trust them to understand but I guess alot of people are afraid to admit they're seeing a shrink is because people who see shrinks are portrayed as crazy or mentally unstable in society. I dont think thats exactly true. They are just people who needed some guidance and found the courage to seek outside medical help, which is admirable.
2006-12-28 16:34:59 · answer #4 · answered by Satellite Eyes 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would be more embarrassed if I had problems and was NOT seeking professional help. Running around depressed or psychotic is not a smart thing to do. It is sad that some people in our society try to give psychiatry a bad stigma when it helps millions of people with millions of serious problems every day! So, no I would not be embarrassed. I would be proud that I am smart enough to get the help I need!
2006-12-28 16:17:39 · answer #5 · answered by Mr. Taco 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Every one has problems that they need to talk to someone about. I think seeing shrink helps people get to the root of what makes them tick and allows them to handle stress in their lives. As you get older you will learn that more people than you could imagine have seen a mental health professional at one point in their lives.
2006-12-28 16:19:03 · answer #6 · answered by NICOLE J 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes. I know I shouldn't be, but I am. I don't tell anyone unless I absolutely have to, and I go to great lengths to make up stories as to why I need time off work for my appointments. I know these days they're trying to de-stigmatise mental illness, but to be honest I don't think they have. I still feel as though everyone would judge me and jump to their own conclusions if they found out I was under the care of a psychiatrist.
2006-12-28 17:13:23 · answer #7 · answered by Jen 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Would not be embarrased at all. But be prepared for nosey people to want to know why you are seeing a "Shrink." Come up with some cute answers, such as you are seeing him to help with your intollerance to pushy people who ask too many questions.
2006-12-28 16:20:12 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
when i was seeing a shrink yeah i was embarrassed. i haven't told anyone. my mom, brother, and best friend know that i went to one. so my answer is yes. i don't think you should be but i was.
2006-12-28 16:25:46 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
no. the shrink helps so I'm definitely not embarrassed
2006-12-28 16:13:52 · answer #10 · answered by turtleherl 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋