[threwway]

I know some people who can talk about their psychological struggles and remain likeable (it's some kind of charisma superpower), but other people where it's just a massive bummer (myself included). Step number one of getting along with people has been masking my internal state where possible. That lets me get by. The endless pit of despair and hopelessness that long-term depression can present, as with many chronic illnesses, it can just be a massive downer (especially when there's literally nothing the other person can do - why burden them with knowledge of my pain more than necessary?). And I can be likeable and fun to be around, and I appreciate it when I know other people who are struggling internally manage to play along also in their own way [ I know it takes them a lot of effort and I appreciate it deeply ]. This is how making it work works for me.

Though I guess I can appreciate the principled approach of the person writing the article, that would be a disaster for me given how I am (and I don't think it reflects badly on my social circles). I have to struggle to not be a happiness vampire, and this would tip the scales.

>I’ve been in therapy on and off and I’m taking meds (and no, yoga, essential oils and exercise are not sufficient to treat mental illness)

Often neither is medication.

[gonehome]

> I know some people who can talk about their psychological struggles and remain likeable

I'd argue this is the basis for all good standup comedy.

[jstarfish]

What's the one question you never want to ask a Munchhausen candidate?

"How are you doing?"

[shkkmo]

What if you are Munchausening about having Munchhausen syndrome?

[shkkmo]

I am in the difficult position where discusing my internal states too deeply is a significant trigger for downwards spirals. It doesn't mean I don't need have those conversations, but I do need to be careful about when and with whom I have those conversations.