SubtleHush wrote:
SageFlame
"In truth, we all have mental health issues. It is part of the human condition. Being aware of your mental health, taking responsibility in caring for your mental health and gaining education on the subject are ways to become confident. Knowledge and understanding are antidotes to fear. Especially when it comes to the fear of mental health issues."
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Sage, I disagree.
Being mentally and emotionally healthy is not the same as having mental health issues.
Having challenges or experiences in life that impact you mentally and emotionally is not having mental health issues.
We all have our emotional and mental experiences and some of those take time (if ever) to get rid of, but having mental health issues is not that. There is no positive side to that distinction. It is generally accepted that the term mental health issues mean the opposite of healthy and responsible functioning.
Everyone doesn't have that. We do have a large collection of people drawn to the lifestyle who are struggling with mental health issues, which is not good for them or us.
Again, if your idea of a scene is a little spank and such and then sex then some things are less of an issue. However, if you are doing bondage, sensory deprivation, knife play, or heavy Sm, then it is a very big deal. People with many triggers, PTSD, manic depression, or self-destructive tendencies, etc. can lose it in a scene and get hurt or hurt others. Or get into more trouble when they attempt to use BDSM as a replacement for obtaining proper mental health professional attention.
I agree with the perspective that if you have mental health issues you are not dealing with you put yourself and your partner at risk when you engage in BDSM.
I believe both Sage and you may be singing a similar tune, but with different words and perspectives as well as some words left out(that could be due to any number of things including but not limited to experiences, personal preferences, location, upbringing, etc)
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The definition of a mental disorder:
Mental disorder
Also called: mental illness
A wide range of conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior.
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In this... a mental disorder can be a wide variety of things.
And as is the complexity and sheer magnitude of different methods to cope and/or solve such things... if desired....
So too is the broad range of variables included in each individual of whom identifies with them.
There is no right or wrong other than in what dictates as consent and general care for the subject/s involved.
Knowing someone has difficulties in any way or sort in regards to a mental disorder, but still wishes to engage in risky behavior for whatever reason... is something that should be discussed between those involved in the act or thoughts of it.
There is no danger unless it is not appropriately addressed and handled. Same as diving off a cliff into the ocean can be a big risk if not properly handled.
In my personal opinion... a disorder itself is not dangerous. It is only the handling of such that determines it's danger level.
It can be very risky, but I've seen completely vanilla relationships with both individuals having severe mental disorders, but no professional attention to them... they were happy and seemingly entirely normal individuals who co-existed within society without much issue. They would attend to each others needs and pay attention.
Now... again. My personal opinion is also that if one does not have the capability or faculty to handle things... then absolutely attempting it becomes a danger! Being absolutely sure is only half the battle in deciding whether to undertake a risk. You must have no doubt and plenty of experience... even if this is not available... it is possible to get lucky... but I would not advise such behavior at all.
I am simply stating my knowledge and small acuity of experience while hoping my 2 cents worth becomes of use to someone.
Always be prepared. Always exercise consent, communication, attentiveness, and caution when attempting a risk. Know yourself, your partner/s and contingencies should anything go wrong. BE SAFE.
E(Valore)