There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear… I John 4:18
I’m not afraid of people who live with a mental illness. I feel empathy and compassion for them in their struggle. Most are not dangerous but very gentle, if overly sensitive souls. Instead of lashing out, they often desperately turn inward. They need to be listened to and comforted. Fears, both real and irrational, plague them. I know friends and relatives who’ve suffered mental illness. My father experienced a psychotic break at age 74 when his life circumstances produced the perfect storm. His disturbed mind, suddenly snapped into suicidal mode, which scared us all. A police officer saved him, family rallied around him, and he responded to treatment for bi-polar disorder. Thanks be to God, he is doing well in recovery with medication and a balanced lifestyle. No, I’m not afraid of a person with a mental illness…but I do fear suffering a serious mental illness myself.
secret storm swells dread
losing control of mind’s eye
uninvited guests
Participating in dVerse Poets haibun Monday on topic of fear…
a poem in my pocket 
Apr 19, 2017 @ 21:13:57
I’m happy to hear that your father is now doing well, Lynn. I do understand why people would choose suicide over living with the agony of deep depression and worse. My father suffered from bi-polar disorder too but chose to self-medicate with alcohol…it did not help, needless to say. I’m with Glenn!
Apr 19, 2017 @ 23:26:30
Thanks for sharing about your father…too many try to self-medicate. I can only imagine how your family suffered with him…
Apr 19, 2017 @ 04:09:24
I’ve lots of experience with mental tribulations but for some reason, do not fear them. Perhaps I should. 😉
As I read the comments, I see that many folks do.
It is not that I do not have fears, but just not those.
Now I am afraid of not having the fear! 😉
But seriously, thank you for sharing. I think a mental illness can often be far worse than physical — we are all so delicate.
Well penned.
Apr 19, 2017 @ 06:55:39
Good to know, from someone who understands, that fear isn’t the only response…reassuring, thanks!
Apr 18, 2017 @ 20:20:09
I fear the same thing too Lynn ~ I hope I can meet those kind of challenges in the future ~ Hope your family is well and fine ~
Apr 18, 2017 @ 22:00:10
We’re doing well…thanks, Grace!
Apr 18, 2017 @ 19:58:49
kaykuala
No, I’m not afraid of a person with a
mental illness…but I do fear suffering
a serious mental illness myself.
I dread both but more of the latter when one cannot excercise control!
Hank
Apr 18, 2017 @ 21:59:06
When you cannot control your own mind…that’s gotta be scary! Thanks, Hank.
Apr 18, 2017 @ 14:05:47
This builds, beautifully.
Apr 18, 2017 @ 13:12:15
I am afraid of mental illness as well. Best wishes to you and your family.
Apr 18, 2017 @ 13:26:44
Thank you, Frank! I appreciate your kind wishes.
Apr 18, 2017 @ 11:26:14
It seems we share the same fears. I am so sorry to hear about your father but Praise God, he was saved from suicide. The haiku that ends this is so heartbreaking and so very true.
Apr 18, 2017 @ 11:45:54
Thanks, Toni…with tears of gratitude.
Apr 18, 2017 @ 10:54:07
Alzheimer’s, cancer, strokes, & heart attacks-they lurk in my closet whispering to each other as to who will attack me first. I fear them, but still resist being a host or a victim.
Apr 18, 2017 @ 11:44:10
A toast to the resistance!
Apr 18, 2017 @ 09:06:04
thank you for this piece. it resonates with one who battles similar demons.
Apr 18, 2017 @ 09:15:33
You are most welcome, Afzal. We do not choose these battles…but we fight!
Apr 18, 2017 @ 11:03:20
yes indeed, dear Lynn! We fight!
Peace ✌