[Ohio-Talk] Anxiety

[Colleen Roth]

Hi Marianne,
I do not ever remember a time when I wasn't anxious. When had to meet with a Psychologist for an Evaluation for Bureau of Services for the Blind as it was known then, to pay for my college expenses I was very nervous. To make matters worse, this Psychologist was weird. I really felt and feel that way today that he should not have been in a position to interview people. The only thing I can remember about the interview is that he was very creepy. I do remember that he had strange attitudes about blindness but I cannot remember the specifics.
Anyway, I must have passed the Evaluation because my college expenses were paid.
Later I went with a friend to an appointness for her Social Security Evaluation. Of course I did not go into the Interview with her. The building was very unkempt, no elevator, narrow hallways and a Receptionist who was not very efficient. I prayed for my fp the whole time and we got out of there as fast as we could. We did not feel safe in that building.
I have never sought Counseling for my Anxiety and Depression. I did see a Counselor which was requiring when I attended Arkansas Enterprises for the Blind in the summer of 1971. 
In my case, I feel uncomfortable talking with a man, I would relax more with a woman.

Of course I think that proving our competency as blind people always is somewhere in the mix.
I took some notes for a meeting, realized I needed to add two word, which I added and resent the email, and then apologized for any inconvenience four days later.
This was probably an overreaction. I think that sometimes we feel that as blind people we need to be perfect. Of course, none of us are perfect.
I think that we should get help when we need it, choose people we are comfortable with, and
go from there. I also know that sometimes Spiritual Directors who have Training in Psychology and share our Faith can be helpful. 
I know that some Catholic Parishes, Universities and Diocese have Spiritual Directors available. Some are free and some require a fee. Some Insurance Companies will reimburse you for that Service.
It helps if you have an open discussion about your blindness or if they have experience with a blind person and have a positive view of blindness.
Remember May is Mental Health Month.
Colleen Roth