6 replies to this topic

[Polka]

I don't agree with it, where else can a person vent about serious depression caused by acne.. if not on an acne forum?

Since when can only speicalists be able to deal with this kinda thing, I think this only pushes people away and makes them feel even more alienated. I know it waqs like that with me, when i opened my feelings up to this forum and then to have a mod block it felt like a slap in the face

I hope this thread stays open for discussion, the typical "lets block the thread" or end all dialogue is not a particularly helpful way to addres this topic

[Goosey.]

But if someone's feeling really depressed and their thread's left open, anyone can post and there's always a chance someone will say the wrong thing/be a total dick, and that's the last thing you want if you're feeling down.

[Arcade]

Hmm.. there is a chance of flaming - but in the same case, there might be someone replying, who gives lots and lots of support - so much support in fact that it might just be their post that stops the person from doing something really stupid.

I think we can all agree that this forum gives more advice than it gives aggro, so to block something which might actually save someone's life is not only a kick in the teeth for the original poster, it's a kick in the teeth for the entire forum community. Instead of blocking the topic altogether, why can't we just delete offensive posts? Surely if someone goes so far to flame a topic, they could easily go even further and private message the original poster aswell? (in which case, blocking the topic would be redundant).

I do however agree that none of us our experts in the field, so maybe a quick lock on the topic and a kind 'seek medical advice' pm from a moderator would be the best way forward. I guess it depends on what kind of topic you are dealing with, the consequences of a particularly horrible post, and the likelyhood of any advice and help from genuine forum posters, which I guess is purely down to the skill of the moderator to decide what's best for each individual post.

[Brandy]

I'm sorry you don't agree with the way we handle certain threads, but this has come about from years of seeing how these things can end up, and weighing the benefits vs risk of leaving such conversations open. We feel it is best to consult with a trained professional when dealing with suicidal feelings and/or severe depression. We are not qualified to properly counsel people, and sometimes members replies are actually cruel, I hate to say.
We want everyone to get the help they need with acne here, and we strive to provide a safe place where people can discuss acne, treatments, and their feelings toward it, however for more serious issues we, as a team, feel it is best for the individual involved if he/she seeks professional guidance, rather than seeking advice on an acne forum.

[Polka]

People seek conversation on here. We are not looking for miracle cures, or treatment. We all know how posting on a forun can be beneficial, to vent etc...

I think a forum is a little bit like society, you would NEVER shun someone who was depressed or suicidal, why do the same on here? If you do not allow these types of threads I think its more appropriate and A LOT more tactful to not just lock a thread and allow no feedback at all

Surely threads which only have explicit suicidal discussion/mention in your disclaimer, not just willy nilly any thread that seems too depressing etc.

I think there is too much a case of trying to step on eggshells here

[Siava]

I think a forum is a little bit like society, you would NEVER shun someone who was depressed or suicidal, why do the same on here?

You've obviously not read the types of comments the mods and other forum members have been witness to. People DO shun depressed and suicidal members. Actually, some folks can be downright toxic to the point it could potentially push others over the edge. It would be absolutely wonderful if we could all comfort one another in our time of need, but this is not the case on this board or in reality, period. This is why such threads get closed so swiftly.

I'm very glad you voiced your opinion though. Every single member on this board deserves a chance to be heard and to have questions answered.

[mulzachan]

People seek conversation on here. We are not looking for miracle cures, or treatment. We all know how posting on a forun can be beneficial, to vent etc...

I think a forum is a little bit like society, you would NEVER shun someone who was depressed or suicidal, why do the same on here? If you do not allow these types of threads I think its more appropriate and A LOT more tactful to not just lock a thread and allow no feedback at all

Surely threads which only have explicit suicidal discussion/mention in your disclaimer, not just willy nilly any thread that seems too depressing etc.

I think there is too much a case of trying to step on eggshells here

well, one, no one is being SHUNNED. closing a topic doesn't mean we don't like you and want you to go away. it's for their benefit, and actually for their safety. what if one comment was made, JUST ONE, nasty comment, and that was what did them in? i'd rather not have that on these boards or on my hands.

i wish we could keep them open and everyone would be nice and willing to help, but this is the internet. no matter how great the forum, that just doesn't happen.