10.16

[45rpm]

Stigma in matters of mental health can be constantly insidious. Not only do you typically internalize it but so do the professionals you turn to for assistance and advocacy. Wondering about the motives behind others questioning your decisions- it's a constant that has layers. Are you just being resistant? Resistance is a symptom that accompanies every mental health issue I can think of. Is your skepticism or concern just some sort of paranoia? If its valid, will that be recognized by others or will they undermine it? Believing they know best, seeing you as somehow less than adult or competent because of your diagnosis, with your "best interests" at heart, the educated and experienced individuals you choose or who are thrust into your life can bring their own biases and ignorance into the mix. It's very common. But so is mistakenly perceiving their behavior for that.

Trying to discern which is what can make even a seemingly simple decision a confusing and frustrating process.