Ralph2,
I do agree the medication for the chemical imbalance is integral to my being able to have the foundation for the rest of my theory. I think the empathy that I have from my friends and family (only part of them) has been definitely slow to arrive. The rest of them is there hope that they will empathize, yes, the reality of it - no, I'm weak, don't think straight, blah blah blah. I am calculating(I planned it that way) that I work for a mental health provider. It makes for a much more empathetic environment.
I also agree that the value of this support group is very important in my recovery. However, it was the content (CBT) of the program that lured me to this site, the surprise element was the support group! I did not hesitate to jump into the support group and am amazed at how important it has become in my recovery. However, the CBT portion of the program is what is helping me to make the changes that I need, the support I get from this group along the way is unparalleled.
I don't think this is available in our individual communities because the format itself, lends itself to the quality of the support. A support group with so many informed and encouraging moderators, available on a 24/7 basis, not having to deal with the anxiety of being in a "room full of people", our anonymity is protected so therefore we can share more openly, discuss more readily, and truly say, in this text, what is going on. We don't have to deal with the "live" emotions that go on behind the words, which makes it easier to be more objective in our responses. We can empathize and at times sympathize with what is going on in the lives of those we've grown to care about, but whom we really don't even know. Yes, I think this is very valuable in my recovery and at times wait with much anticipation to hear that "I understand response".
lol, I think I've gotten off track of the original myth or fact? I think we are saying the same thing Ralph2.
I do hope that your and everyone finds someone in their life how ever slow it may be at arriving who can empathize with you even though they may not have experienced it themselves.