tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post5473559727891219258..comments2023-10-25T04:33:16.200-04:00Comments on Capital Animals: ADHD, Anxiety, and Animals, Oh My!Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.comBlogger3125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-16543938895603705382011-02-12T02:14:42.617-05:002011-02-12T02:14:42.617-05:00((((Bethany!!))))
First, you are so right about t...((((Bethany!!))))<br /><br />First, you are so right about the therapeutic gifts of our critters. Winnie wasn't a lap cat... yet always there in my lap, or butting my head when I was anxious or down. No judgement, no pity, just love.<br /><br />Next, you said it sister! Until we are willing to stand up and say "me, too," mental health issues will stay in that dark place and continue to stigmatize those whose lives it touches.<br /><br />Me - intermittent bouts of depression and anxiety. My sister, too. We were both smart enough to get treatment, but didn't share with anyone because of the stigma. I don't remember who saw whose Zoloft bottle (or whatever catalyst it was) but the reaction was in stereo... "You, too???" All those years wasted that we could have been support for one another.<br /><br />Then, my niece was diagnosed with bi-polar. Sis and I attended a NAMI Family-to-Family class last year. A real eye opener for two people who thought they "knew" about mental illness, let me tell you! Seems even we had our stereotypes and prejudices.<br /><br />Your courage in coming out has really touched me, hon. And your post a fitting tribute to a friend you love. I'm so sorry for your loss.<br /><br />Hugs,<br />LisaHubbleSpacePawshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00720087964026883620noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-56086578465670234782011-02-09T00:00:48.607-05:002011-02-09T00:00:48.607-05:00Cathy, Thank you :) That is one of the nicest comm...Cathy, Thank you :) That is one of the nicest comments I've ever read. Hearing about your work with vets who have lost limbs reminded me of my shelter's program with Walter Reed where recovering soldiers (some vets, some active duty) learn how to train dogs. A few of them have commented that working with the dogs has helped their PT because the dog just loves without pity or judgment. I wish I had the strength to help more with that program but I'm awful with people. Many kudos to you for being able to help people, I would break down.<br /><br />Today has had many wonderful positive things for all three of us. Thank you!Bethanyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/10863027065920743028noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4647799817628710326.post-68694654111036826992011-02-08T12:27:10.641-05:002011-02-08T12:27:10.641-05:00Bethany I admire your courage for being open about...Bethany I admire your courage for being open about your life and sharing with others your experiences and observations. Your words demonstrate a sincere desire to use your experiences to promote understanding and acceptance in others for the diverse human community. <br /><br />I do so admire your work with animals. It is such a loving and worthwhile commitment. And you're so right about the love of animals. Sometimes when it is hard to pick yourself up after a blow or set back, there's nothing like a warm furry friend to bring peace to your soul. <br /><br />And on a personal note, hopefully not out of place here, I want to specifically thank you for your post on another blog yesterday. Your kind, supportive words were balm to me after some of the other things written. I think what you wrote showed a wonderful approach to life - stand up for what you believe in and state your beliefs in a sincere, forthright manner while being understanding of others. <br /><br />Hoping that today brings wonderful, positive blessings to you and Toby (and the boyfriend, too).<br /><br />Cathy MCathy Mnoreply@blogger.com