Tell Me Pastor

Is it all in my head?

Dear Pastor,

I am 20 and have been bothered by a problem since I was 12.

I think I have a mental disorder. I appear normal and attractive but I experience speech and behavioural challenges. I have been called stupid and 'fool-fool' and I am afraid and embarrassed to go out in public because of my behaviour. I prefer to stay at home as I behave like a normal person there. It is difficult for me to concentrate. Sometimes I talk to myself especially if something is bothering me. Many times, I cry and talk to God about it.

I can't keep a job because of this problem, and even my boyfriend says that I lack reasoning ability. He does not understand what it is like to be me. I don't think I can live like this anymore.

Can you refer me to a counsellor or psychologist? Please pray for me and give me your fatherly advice. May God bless you.

M.S.,

St. Catherine,

Dear M.S.,

Thank you so much for writing. Everybody is different. Psychologists say that even people who appear to be normal have a bit of abnormality in them. It is a big debate among psychologists and psychiatrists on the matter of normality and abnormality.

Get assessed

I do not mean to imply that you should not see a professional to assist you to understand and overcome your problems. You think you have a mental disorder, but that may or may not be the case. A psychologist can assess you by doing certain tests to determine why you behave the way you do and what type of therapy you should undergo.

Although you recognise that you have problems you are not stupid and those who think you are 'fool-fool' describe you in such a manner because they do not understand what you are going through and why you behave the way you do.

May I suggest that you call the Family Life Ministries and ask to meet with a counsellor? I'm sure they'll be glad to assist you. Their number is listed.

Pastor.