A Warning On Altruism

There is a tale of a man in a men's room who saw a spider struggling to get out of a urinal, taking pity he got a paper towel for the spider to get on then laid it on the floor. The next day he came into the men's room to find the spider squashed and dead on the floor. The meaning of this tale is sometimes doing what you think is helpful could mean causing more harm. In my case when I discussed with a former boss my mental health he immediately was suggesting me speaking to a psychiatrist and taking time off and lots of other things, none of which I wanted, he thought he was being helpful but was actually making me feel more anxious by putting me under some spotlight I didn't need. The best thing he could have asked is " what can I do to help you?" Speaking for myself, there are many times I have wished I was not depressed and anxious, didn't have to take medication and deal with the stuff in my head on a daily basis but it is what it is and I don't want to be treated differently and have my difference highlighted to everyone else. To all of you out there who know what I'm talking about, stay safe and know you are not alone.