I agree, and I think we must realize that there are women that come to this forum, sometimes prior to seeking professional help. They see us as trusted friends who have been there; felt their pain.

We women at BWS have a responsibility to listen with open hearts, without judgment;

to offer advise when and only if we are truly in position of actually having had some sort of experience dealing with the mental illness, addiction or grief discussed first hand;

To direct the person to professional care if they are depressed, unstable, or suffering any other psychological ailment that we cannot help them with;

And to never, ever suggest in any way, shape or form that it's a good idea for them to stop taking medications without consulting their doctor. Unless you have a MD after your name this is criminal.

Many people read these forums outside our BWS membership. We must be responsible for the effects we may have on innocent lives. Words are powerful. They can change a person's life for the best or for the worst and can even lead to death.

[ February 26, 2006, 03:05 PM: Message edited by: suzieq ]