[la_ant]

Hi all,

This is a general question. My dad attempted suicide when I was 17 and failed. Back then I decided to burn bridges and never talk to him again. Eight years later, I'm happy with my decision and have a balanced life. I told the girls I dated what happened when they asked me, but I keep it quiet to most people I know because I do not want pity. It is however an event that shaped me a lot (in a very good way, actually, because it pushed me to be a better person) and I was wondering if I should tell more people about it. I'm not planning on making a big announcement in my campus newspaper (I'm a grad student), but just stop avoiding the subject when people ask about my dad.

Do you think it's a good idea? How do you imagine (as well as you can) how they would react?

Thanks for your input,
Me

[whichwayisup]

I think you use your judgement. This is something very personal and unless someone is close to you, there really is no need for casual buddies to know about your personal life.

I know you don't talk to your father anymore, but I do hope he's getting some professional help.

[blind_otter]

IME it's better to give the least amount of information necessary to people that you don't know well enough to trust completely.

[lex007]

Its nothing to hide, that's for sure, but you have to go with what feels right. When people hear something like that, they often feel obligated to present some insight or compelling response. Like you need to hear back from them, and they have to play shrink for a minute. From what you've written, that's not what you want. I say you wait for the right time and place, but don't make efforts to hide it... its part of who you are.