I know for me that this question runs into all the secondary wounding I have received over the years. I was considered to be crazy by the entire community I lived in, along with most of my family. I was alienated often due to the way I reacted or didn't react to certain events. Just having someone understand that I have a disorder that accounts for these reactions means the world to me. All of my close friends whole-heartedly understands. My family tried their best. Mostly they have just come to accept there is something wrong with me and I'm getting help. Good enough.

Also being understood means that you are being heard. I think many of us have lost our voice due to abuse. Getting that voice back is a very powerful thing.

bec