State of mind

[Kayleigh]

bookmarked the site to join later..good luck and hope it takes off..

[Snatcher]

Nice idea. It's good to know people care.

I worked in what was termed a "County Asylum" many years ago so I know a little about the people you might encounter on an open forum. Word of warning. If you start to get members joining who become reliant on you, please follow through any commitments you undertake. I'm sure you know what I'm saying. It depends on the numbers of people that join and their types of disorder. But I wonder if you have considered that you might have to close the door on some of them before pledging help. And there are many you will not be able to help in any way, shape or form.

The guidelines that the Samaritans work within can seem ridiculously strict, but are there for a reason.

This is something to consider very seriously. Do not take what you do lightly. In many cases it will actually be a matter of life or death.

Please.

[tufftie]

Hi snatcher,

Yes I fully appreciate what you are saying and I am aware that at some point I am going to have to add a disclaimer to the forum/site. However, the aim of the forum is not to act as a help group - I imagine very few people that go on there will have the experience (never mind quals - exp is much more apt) - to undertake that sort of support. The aim of the site/forum is to help alleviate the stigma associated with mental illness. When I am fully fit again I intend to take the pro-active part further. However, I'm sure anybody on there will be understanding and lend a shoulder to those that need it but there is a very clear link that leads to helplines etc; I imagine they will be very quickly pointed out in such situations as you mention! Thanks though as all advice is very warmly welcomed and I appreciate you taking the time to write

Elaine - thanks for joining, means a lot xxx