YOU ARE NOT ALONE - A companion online community discussion board for The Mental Illness Happy Hour podcast with Paul Gilmartin

Is it okay that "basically, it's a machine for those of us who feel dead inside" made me giggle?

I did

I would love to here more of Peter's story. Especially how he found his real parents. This is definitely one of my favorites. What a great guy. If your ever in Northern California Peter I would love to buy you dinner.

Wow, this guy's story is so complex, I was getting lost early on about who was who! I initially found myself judging Peter for continuing his risky behavior after his first negative test (who knows, maybe it really was negative). However, as his story unwound, I began to understand the motivation behind his actions. Congratulations on being a survivor, Peter. I wish you the best for the future.

An amazing podcast. Heartbreaking, and incredibly polarising at times.

I have no problems with religion as long as it doesn't hurt anyone or anything (and people not shoving it in my face like a tired pole dancer with stretch marks) , but my biggest annoyance was Peter ferverently thanking God for the drugs used to treat his illness. Many many years of tireless work by researchers, clinicians, chemists and scientists completely discounted by 'oh God did it'.

I am NOT saying that religion shouldn't be part of this podcast - hell I love learning about how people have found peace in their faith, regardless of *which* faith. And I can see how Peter has found some solace in his faith - given the incredible hardships and terrible things he'd done), but that one thing _really_ got my goat. Dismissal of the incredibly hard and underpaid work done by people dismissed as 'thank you God'.

But what the fuck do I know.

I SO appreciated how Paul handled the religious aspect of this episode. I felt like he was being very respectful while at the same time acknowledging that many listeners may not believe in God. Everyone's story is different, and if Peter's relationship with God makes a difference, than that's wonderful. But kudos to Paul for letting him know that not everyone would be on board with that.

I agree, Marathon Bar! That was handled with extreme class.