New hire struggles with workplace racism
Dear New Girl: Yes, you should speak out. It is shocking that government employees would feel comfortable expressing racist views in the workplace. I am distinguishing between people expressing political viewpoints, and those who are openly racist. There is a wide difference between the two.
The workplace is not the place to express one's racist thoughts. This behavior is unprofessional and unacceptable, and it is unethical for you to stay silent.
I think you should also make note of some of these incidents, in order to advocate for change. Your bosses should absolutely crack down on this.
If you are shunned for speaking out, then count yourself lucky. You would then be relieved from the pressure of spending any leisure time with these people.
Also, look for a different job.
Dear Amy: I'm 23 and recently got officially diagnosed with depression and anxiety, something I've struggled with since high school, when I would self-harm. I even attempted suicide.
Now I've finally gotten the help and medication I need, and I feel much better.
My mother refuses to acknowledge depression (or any mental illness, for that matter) as a "real disorder."
I never told her about my self-harm or suicide attempts, but I did allude to not wanting to live anymore during high school. She responded by threatening to have me committed, since, of course, I sounded crazy, not depressed.
I haven't told her I have been diagnosed, or that I am on medication, since she doesn't believe in mood-altering medications.
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