Believe me, there are just some people that really get angry or fed up with what is around them, but specifically its a power issue. These people usually are very intelligent or have the makings of being a good person, but situation or circumstance doesnt allow them this. They are trapped in low paying jobs or are infected with a mental illness. Someone had mentioned it earlier, the gap between getting mental help is WAY too great, but also, people tend to be afraid of those with ANY mental illness.
Would people believe that I am bipolar? Probably. Most likely. Definitely. Does it affect their view of me? Hell yes. Can it affect how others treat me? Constantly. People see me in my casual mode and think of me as a nutcase (probably with good reason). What they dont see is the tremendous responsibilities and tasks that face me at my professional career and things I have done to get there. They dont see serious Vern because I cant be like that 24/7. I have bad days and good days.
Now what separates me from these "total" nutcases is the level of help. I self medicate with a combination of good diet, calming exercises, a great girlfriend (this helps BIG TIME!!), zen in shooting, booze (in careful amounts) and good aquaintences (not too many friends as most of the folks I hang with wouldnt want me to share a beer with them, even if I am paying
). The shooters generally DONT seek therapy. The shooters almost ALWAYS recluse themselves from people, thinking that they dont understand them or are actually fearful of society (which leads me to number 3). The shooters have a MAJOR case of something (as opposed to my minor) and REQUIRE medication to function, but never do.
I pray for the families of those killed and only hope that one day people will finally drop their ego, go to the therapist, and situate their life in a productive and loving direction instead of lashing out at the surrounding society. Even when things look their worst in life, there is always someone out there willing to listen and help...