Celebrity revelations

Though it’s fun to write about celebrities, a longtime reader of this blog sent me an email asking if I’d please pay attention, as well, to those whose stories don’t typically get told. He expressed himself so eloquently that I feel compelled to share his words with you, though as he doesn’t want his name used, I’ve given him a pseudonym.

From “Michael”:

I hope you consider including articles under the general heading of “From the Other Side” dealing with those who are disabled by a mental illness and have lives characterized by little income, little or no social interaction with persons not similarly situated, extensive involvement with the MH system, etc.

While it is always heartening to read inspiring stories of personal achievement normally focused on celebraties, few of my friends actually achieve what many take for granted. We endure lives of unbelievable social isolation and abject loneliness – the vast majority don’t date, receive invitations to ordinary social events, work, have or anticipate intimate relationships and so forth.

Sadly, most of the social events I have attended are known as “mentally ill parties” which are generally held at 3 PM days prior to the actually holiday at a drop-in center, day program, PHP, or hospital. They are characterized by huge bags of chips, large bottles of soda, a boombox playing, and consumers sitting around the periphery.

It’s a tough life when all weekends are spent alone.

I really appreciate Michael’s remarks. I’ve been to the parties he mentions, and they are indeed incredibly depressing. I will do my best to find stories to tell from the other side. If you want to tell your own story, please email me at lspikol@philadelphiaweekly.com.

[Image from the abandoned Whitby Psychiatric Hospital by Irina/Riri at Flickr.]

liz | 12:08 PM | Uncategorized