Many famous historical figures have struggled with hidden depression, pain, and abuse while maintaining a public image of success, strength, or happiness. Here are some well-known individuals who endured immense personal suffering behind closed doors: 1. Robin Williams (1951–2014) 2. Marilyn Monroe (1926–1962) 3. Vincent van Gogh (1853–1890) 4. Princess Diana (1961–1997) 5. Freddie Mercury… Read More Silencing and Ignoring Abuse
manic-depressive disorder, which is now called bipolar disorder in modern psychology. This is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings, including emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). What is Bipolar Disorder? Bipolar disorder is characterized by episodes of: There are different types of bipolar disorder: What Causes Bipolar Disorder? The exact cause isn’t… Read More Manic-depressive disorder
It sounds like you’re dealing with someone who has a history of diagnosed mental health conditions, including paranoia and psychosis, and has previously taken prescribed medication for paranoid thoughts. When someone with these conditions starts projecting blame onto others, making false accusations, and twisting narratives while denying their own actions (such as stalking or changing car hire details),… Read More Paranoia and Psychosis
When the Lights Are On, But Nobody Is In… Read More When the Lights Are On, But Nobody Is In
When you’re emotionally entangled in a relationship, it becomes hard to separate what you know professionally from what you feel personally. You might see the signs when things start to go wrong—manipulation, communication breakdowns, toxic dynamics—but acknowledging them and acting on them are two entirely different things. The emotional investment can cloud judgment, and the fear of disrupting the relationship can keep you stuck.… Read More Being the Therapist
When someone displays hate and coldness in their eyes—not just toward you, but seemingly toward everyone—it’s a sign of deep emotional or psychological disturbance. While this behavior may feel chilling and confusing, it’s essential to consider the possible explanations, including medical or psychological conditions, personal history, or personality traits.… Read More Hate and coldness in their eyes
Abuse over such a prolonged period indicates a lack of accountability and, often, an unwillingness to seek meaningful help or make changes. It also speaks to a disregard for the well-being of others, and that is never acceptable. Mental illness may explain certain struggles, but it does not grant anyone a free pass to harm others repeatedly, especially when opportunities to change or address the issue were likely available over such a long timeframe.
For the person on the receiving end of this abuse, the effects are often devastating, compounded by years of manipulation, control, or harm. Recognizing the abuse for what it is—and understanding that it’s not your responsibility to fix or endure it—is a vital step in healing and reclaiming your life.… Read More Mental Illness as an Excuse
It’s possible that external influences, such as other family members, friends, or even societal narratives, might shape their perception of the person in crisis. If they hear claims of “attention-seeking” or “manipulation,” they might distance themselves based on these biases.
In blended or complex family dynamics, alliances or pressures can form, affecting how people respond.… Read More Ignoring Pleas for Help
While it’s easy to feel anger toward the family for their inaction, it’s worth considering that their avoidance likely stems from fear, guilt, or emotional paralysis rather than malicious intent. That said, this doesn’t excuse their behavior—it just provides insight into why they might act this way. Compassionate but firm confrontation is often necessary to disrupt these patterns.
Ultimately, the well-being of the person with psychosis must remain the priority. If the family won’t step up, external systems may need to be involved to ensure they receive the care and dignity they deserve.… Read More Lack of collective accountability.
When you leave in your head years before you leave physically, it’s often because your inner self has started recognizing the toxic dynamics. You might have reached a point where you stopped believing the excuses, stopped blaming yourself, and started imagining a life free of the control, manipulation, or harm. This mental separation is an act of self-preservation—a way to begin reclaiming your identity and autonomy, even if the external reality feels inescapable at the time.
What’s important to remember is that this process is part of your journey to freedom. Mentally leaving is the seed of hope that helps you survive and eventually move toward physical separation. Even if it took years to manifest in action, those years weren’t wasted. They were part of your path to regaining strength, planning your way out, and building the resilience you needed to take that final step.… Read More Self-preservation
Linda C J Turner | Trauma Therapist & Emotional Healing Specialist 