A Thorough Introduction

Hi Psych Forumers!

I'm Jacquelyn (not my real name, of course). I joined these forums mostly because I want to explore and understand people - particularly people whom the bulk of society would prefer remain invisible. I've been through my own personal trials-by-fire, and I've been lucky enough to essentially come out the other side - a bit singed, but generally victorious, and stronger for the struggle.

Along the way, I've come to realize just how many different kinds of hands people are dealt in life, and how many of those people don't have the support I have. And I resolved to make myself a kind of conduit, a voice to the rest of the world that we're all brothers and sisters, and we all deserve to be understood without being judged. And to make myself a beacon in the fog for anyone I encounter in my travels who feels alone or ashamed of who they are. Shirley Manson of the band Garbage was that beacon for me when I needed it, and that experience pointed out to me just how important it is to let my little light shine so others can see it in the darkness.

I battle depression, generalized anxiety, and social anxiety. All three are now fairly well managed with meds, which I consider a miracle of science that probably saved my life. I'm transsexual (mtf), though I don't consider that a psych issue, since there's nothing abnormal about a female brain feeling as though it should be in a female body. It's just an anatomical twist of fate.

I also play women's flat-track roller derby. My decision to play derby has been one of the best and proudest choices in my life. There is some resistance out there to trans women playing women's roller derby, but my leagues support me completely (I'm involved with 2 leagues. Started with one, now I play with another, but I'm still very close with the first). The support of ~160 rollergirls really bolsters my courage to stand in defiance against discrimination, especially because when I stand, they all stand with me. As do my non-derby friends, and my entire family.

I'm extremely blessed to have such a ridiculous amount of support. It gives me a pretty powerful voice. And I really hope I can use that voice to encourage such support and acceptance for other people, and maybe make this world a little tiny bit better for it. I'm here on psych forums to understand other people, so I can be a more effective advocate and ally to my fellow human beings.

So that's me.

xoxo
- JH

Hello and welcome to the forums. I think it is interesting that you mention that you wish to talk to people who "the bulk of society wish to remain invisible". I think it's certainly true that there is this stigma against the idea of people having mental illness that seems to make it not as generally accepted as it should be considering that so many people have a diagnosed mental illness...

It is good to hear that your mental health conditions are being managed well at the moment. I hope things continue to go well for you. I'm sure you will find it helpful to connect with other people here on the site who will be able to relate to what you have been going through.

The roller-derby stuff sounds fun and interesting too...

Enjoy your time here... I'm sure I'll catch you around the place.