[ajjhmf]

My husband and I are in a similar boat with our adoption right now. It's a hard place for your friends to be and I certainlly sympathize with them.

Question, has your friend done a psychiatric evaluation? I have a history of major depression and since some of my counseling records are missing, the agency recommended I get one done. I go this coming Tuesday. The doctor we picked has worked with the agency before doing evals for birthparents and the like. Our SW doesn't have any reservations, and is just trying to create a complete and solid view of my depression.

Another question, how well educated is your friend's SW on mental health issues? Because despite all the seeming acceptance of depression these days, people can still be very ignorant when it comes to a more serious forms than the 6-month blues type. We're lucky, our SW has depression herself and actually sees it as more of a strength than a weakness. My husband and I have a good understanding of depression and related problems that will probably affect our children since we're adopting older children out of the foster care system. Understanding the rigors of medication and the need for counseling and structure is something that our SW is writing up as a strength instead of a weakness. If your friend is being treated unfairly, she can always speak to a supervisor and possibly have her study reviewed by another worker.

As we're going through this ourselves, I know how hard it is on your friend. It's wonderful that your being so supportive. If you or your friend would like some more information, please PM me and I'll get you my e-mail address.

Blessings,
Jenny