The information on this website reflects the experience of a middle aged director of business development, a freelance journalist, a professional development executive, a special education teacher, a non-profit marketer, an advertising sales director, a performing artist, a management training course developer, a web strategist, a human resource career advisor, a job developer, and one lost soul on SSDI.
While we appreciate those who have disclosed thus far; the majority of us do not have the financial freedom and/or self-confidence (after so many years of struggling without accommodations, misdiagnosis, and ridicule) to “come out.” By expanding the conversation, and revealing the mental diversity hidden behind cubicle walls (with our anonymous survey), we can reduce the risk of disclosure, and ensure every individual has the freedom to live an authentic life.
Once we have reached our first goal (as defined by the number of surveys completed), we promise to remove our veils of anonymity. In the meantime, we hope you will trust, respect, and support our ultimate goal by participating, and proactively sharing our mission with as many others as possible.
Please join us, as we strive to…
- shed light on the prevalence of mental “disorders” in the workplace;
- fight the stigma of mental illness;
- reduce the odds of suicide;
- give those who struggle hope for the future.
After completing our survey…PLEASE INVITE friends, colleagues, family members, and those you have met (in local support groups, around town, at work, at school, online, or anywhere else you can imagine) to complete our survey as well.
ANONYMOUS SURVEY
In Memory
During the construction of this Website, it became apparent that an acquaintance was struggling with alcohol addiction. The question of whether or not to intervene was painful, but reinforced the importance of this mission.
Personal fear regarding stigma (along with depression) made it difficult to reach out over the wall separating us; but an even bigger concern was that doing so would interfere with the individual’s privacy, and that of his partner; who remained truly compassionate and loving, despite the pain it was causing him in turn.
Neither of them knew someone was routing for them (and shedding tears) on the other side of a wall. The battles became more and more brutal over time, and at the young age of forty, a vibrant man lost his war.
The complete story is still a mystery. But there is hope that…with an angel by our side.we can reduce the fear of stigma and eliminate concerns, which prevent us from reaching out in the future.
Be Counted! Illuminate Mental Diversity at Work.
There is safety (AND strength) in numbers. “All for one, and one for all.”
Suggestions, feedback, comments, and questions welcomed at MindingDiversity@aol.com
© October 2015
Minding Diversity 