As promised, today’s episode is about peeling off the mask of Perfectly Hidden Depression (PHD). Thousands of you have listened to the episodes on PHD, and I’d love to hear from you personally. Email me confidentially so I can learn more from you! This episode covers basic steps of change, with specific examples and directions for those suffering with PHD, and how to handle the fear of change.
If you wonder where you might fit on the PHD spectrum, please take this questionnaire.
Today’s email from a listener discusses what can happen when your partner says they love you but are not “in love” with you. What can you do if you want to try to mend and repair the relationship?
Important links:
My post on the ten traits of Perfectly Hidden Depression
Recent research on the links between perfectionism, low self-esteem and suicide:
Book by Gordon Flett, a lead researcher of perfectionism
SelfWork Episode 42: Falling Back In Love
The book, “Too Good To Leave, Too Bad To Stay.”
You can hear more about mental health and many other topics by listening to my podcast, SelfWork with Dr. Margaret Rutherford. Subscribe to my website and receive one weekly newsletter including my weekly blog post and podcast! If you’d like to join my FaceBook closed group, then click here and answer the membership questions! Welcome!
My new book entitled Perfectly Hidden Depression has arrived and you can order here! Its message is specifically for those with a struggle with strong perfectionism which acts to mask underlying emotional pain. But the many self-help techniques described can be used by everyone who chooses to begin to address emotions long hidden away that are clouding and sabotaging your current life.
And there’s a new way to send me a message! You can record by clicking below and ask your question or make a comment. You’ll have 90 seconds to do so and that time goes quickly. By recording, you’re giving SelfWork (and me) permission to use your voice on the podcast. I’ll look forward to hearing from you!
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These are great points Michael. In fact, I think I’ll write about it — how to reveal to others who love you what your hiding has been like for you, and how changing or “unmasking” may impact them.
As far as your chronic disease and it’s potential relationship with stress, from the job and/or from trying to maintain your mask, I’ve seen as a therapist many examples of a strong mind/body connection. How much or how little that can occur is something you and your medical provider can discuss. But from a psychological point of view, it certainly could have an impact.
Thanks once again for contributing and commenting. I’m delighted my words are helpful to you and your family.