I just wanted to say that I shy away from services and asking for help because of stigma too.
My CC has said a few things and made a few assumptions based not he stigma of my Dx and now I don't ask for help when I need it (which also gets me in trouble so I can't win). When I go to MH groups and workshops and we do intro's a lot of people include their Dx in that, I never do. I just say my name, and that I like cats and tea.
I also don't go to A&E because of it, unless I'm dragged there by police, therapist, etc, and EVEN then, you can get stigma related comments which is why I always try my best to refuse.
Some people in my care have been good about it, but the people who I feel are judging and misconceiving my actions and motives makes me run out of frustration and shame.
I only talk about my actual Dx with my carer/partner and if someone knows it already but no-one else. I always hide my Dx label if I can.
xx
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