From [email protected] Mon Jul 24 18:08:35 1995
Path: uunet!in1.uu.net!bounce-back
From: [email protected] (John M. Grohol)
Newsgroups: news.announce.newgroups,news.groups,alt.support.depression,alt.support.depression.manic,alt.support.depression.seasonal,alt.support,sci.psychology.misc,sci.psychology.announce
Subject: RFD: soc.support.depression.*
Followup-To: news.groups
Date: 19 Jul 1995 17:52:53 -0400
Organization: nova.edu
Lines: 282
Sender: [email protected]
Approved: [email protected]
Message-ID: <[email protected]>
NNTP-Posting-Host: rodan.uu.net
Xref: uunet news.announce.newgroups:7174 news.groups:160221 alt.support.depression:44511 alt.support.depression.manic:940 alt.support.depression.seasonal:166 alt.support:8671 sci.psychology.misc:338 sci.psychology.announce:37
REQUEST FOR DISCUSSION (RFD)
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.crisis
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.family
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.manic
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.misc
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.seasonal
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.treatment
Note: Discussion on this RFD should occur only
in news.groups, as the Guidelines suggest.
Summary:
-------
The following new newsgroups are proposed in this RFD:
soc.support.depression.crisis Personal crisis situations.
soc.support.depression.family Coping with depressed people.
soc.support.depression.manic Bipolar/manic-depression.
soc.support.depression.misc Depression and mood disorders.
soc.support.depression.seasonal Seasonal affective disorder.
soc.support.depression.treatment Treatments of depression.
Introduction:
------------
Alt.support.depression has enjoyed a large and faithful following since
its inception over 2 years ago. This is probably not surprising since
anywhere from 5 to 25% of adults will experience either depression or
a related mood disorder in their lifetime. This is one of the most
commonly diagnosed, treated, and misunderstood of mental disorders
today. Alt.support.depression has illustrated the tremendous success
of online support groups on the Internet.
Unfortunately, since it began, traffic on alt.support.depression has
outgrown the group; it now averages anywhere from 150-300 new messages
per day. In an effort to reduce traffic on alt.support.depression and
provide a greater propegation for support of this disorder, this
proposal has been put together. After some initial discussion on
alt.support.depression, it is being made clear that this proposal in
no way seeks to alter the basic make-up, content, or organization of
the present newsgroup. None of the proposed groups would seek to
replace or delete the existing alt.support.depression.* groups. Instead,
it is proposed that these groups would naturally co-exist with one
another; participants can choose from among them.
A survey of existing topics in the three newsgroups, alt.support.depression,
alt.support.depression.manic, and alt.support.depression.seasonal that
appeared on my newsreader over a period of two weeks (in the summer;
fall & winter traffic would be expected to be greater) was conducted.
No soc.support.depression.chat or soc.support.depression.discussion
newsgroup is being proposed in this RFD because of the difficulty of
the distinction necessary between supportive posts to one another
and topics of a purely "chatting" nature.
Proposed New Groups:
-------------------
Name: soc.support.depression.crisis (unmoderated)
Description: Personal crisis situations.
Rationale: In the survey, 7-12% of all articles were
related to individuals seeking immediate sorts of
help and tips for relief from their depression and
suicidal feelings. While some individuals can
handle the constant requests for help, others
have expressed some difficulty in seeing them
every day. This newsgroup would set aside a specific
newsgroup for those individuals in need of immediate
support.
Although this group is being initially proposed as
*unmoderated*, I believe that some sort of
robomoderation to eliminate crossposting and flames
would be entirely appropriate for this newsgroup.
This can be discussed in the first RFD and if someone
has the capability and willingness to set this up,
the RFD can be changed to reflect this. Human
moderation may not be preferred given the time lag
of such a system.
Charter: For helping those individuals suffering from
severe depressive and suicidal feelings who are
seeking immediate responses in a personal crisis
situation. Only articles asking for help or those
offering immediate support can be posted here.
All other articles, such as flames, commercial
postings, or discussions on individuals seeking help,
are strictly prohibited. Crossposting is also
highly discouraged.
-------------------
Name: soc.support.depression.family (unmoderated)
Description: Coping with depressed people.
Rationale: Recent discussions have surfaced on alt.support.depression
about the lack of a discussion area for spouses and other
family members of how to deal with their loved ones
being depressed. Depression often takes an exacting
yet overlooked toll on significant others and family
systems, as well as friends. This support group would
give these individuals an area in which to freely
exchange mutual types of feelings and ideas on
how to cope with the depressed person in their lives.
Like another newsgroup that is being
proposed in this RFD (soc.support.depression.treatment),
this group is being proposed in the soc.support hierarchy
rather than under the alt.support hierarchy to
have better propegation of this important topic.
Charter: For the discussion of coping with family members,
spouses, or friends who are depressed. Topics
appropriate for this newsgroup would be
the discussion of coping skills and exchanging
of ideas and feelings about how individuals
deal with significant others in their lives who
are suffering from any type of depressive disorder.
Commercial postings of any type are prohibited
from this newsgroup, and crossposting to other
soc.support.depression.* groups is discouraged.
As with all soc.support newsgroups, flames are
not welcome in this group as well.
-------------------
Name: soc.support.depression.manic (unmoderated)
Description: Bipolar/manic-depression.
Rationale: To better propegate the support discussion of
those individuals suffering from this specific
sub-type of depression. The current newsgroup
receives poor propegation, and yet this topic
is a logical branch from the proposed
soc.support.depression.* hierarchy. It is a
different enough disorder, however, to make
individuals suffering from it to be less able
to relate well to those suffering from only
major depressive disorder. Manic-depression is
used, rather than the more up-to-date term,
bipolar, since it is more recognizable to most
people and parallels the existing alt group.
Charter: For the discussion of bipolar disorder (also
known as manic-depression), which is characterized
by specific and discrete episodes of depression
and mania (an excess of energy & grandiosity of
mood and self). This newsgroup is being proposed
not to replace the current alt.support.depression.manic,
but as a logical and better-propegated complement to it.
Commerical postings are specifically prohibited.
-------------------
Name: soc.support.depression.misc (unmoderated)
Description: Depression and mood disorders.
Rationale: In the survey, nearly 60-65% of all posts were
directly related to the supportive discussion
of depression and related mood disorders. This
group is being proposed to increase propegation
of this topic and allow for better organization
of this topic under the soc.support.* hierarchy.
Charter: For the discussion of depression and other
serious mood disorders (such as dysthymic disorder).
This newsgroup is being proposed not to replace
the current alt.support.depression, but rather as
a complement to it. Crossposting between the
newsgroups can and will occur. Commerical postings
of any sort are strictly prohibited. This newsgroup
would also be for the discussion area for any other
newsgroup proposed which did not pass its vote.
-------------------
Name: soc.support.depression.seasonal (unmoderated)
Description: Seasonal affective disorder.
Rationale: To better propegate the support discussion of
those individuals suffering from this specific
sub-type of depression. The current newsgroup
receives poor propegation, and yet this topic
is a logical branch from the proposed
soc.support.depression.* hierarchy. It is a
different enough disorder, however, to make
individuals suffering from it to be less able
to relate well to those suffering from only
major depressive disorder.
Charter: For the discussion of seasonal affective disorder
(SAD), which is a sub-type of depression that
is characterized by a major depressive episode
occurring only during the change of or throughout
specific seasons (e.g.- depression experienced
only in the winter months in the north). This
newsgroup is being proposed not to replace the
current alt.support.depression.seasonal, but as
a logical and better-propegated complement to it.
Commerical postings are specifically prohibited.
-------------------
Name: soc.support.depression.treatment (unmoderated)
Description: Treatments of depression.
Rationale: One of the most popular topics in a.s.d., accounting
for approximately 25-30% of all the articles posted.
Since medication and psychotherapy are both important
aspects of most people's treatment for depression,
no distinction is made here between the two. If, in the
future, it becomes apparent that individual newsgroups
for both are warranted, they can be created in
this hierarchy.
Charter: For the discussion of various treatment options
of depression, whether it is psychotherapy,
medication, alternative therapies, home-made
remedies, or some combination of them. Any topic
that offers solutions and options for the treatment
of depression is appropriate here. Discussion of
personal experiences, research, and professional
opinions of the treatment of depression would also
be appropriate. Advocacy on a particular treatment
method is discouraged or should only be done in
a nonjudgmental and supportive style. Out-and-out
debates or arguments on treatment options as well as
commercial postings of any sort are not appropriate
nor allowed in this newsgroup.
-------------------
Summary:
-------
Alt.support.depression is a great and useful newsgroup. However,
it does not reach a lot of people still (because of it's location
in the alt hierarchy) and it has quickly become overwhelmed by
articles as the growth of the Internet (and Usenet in particular)
has exploded in recent months. Depression is a serious and common
disorder which deserves better propegation and better organization
than currently available in alt. If most of the proposed newsgroups
pass, not only will alt.support.depression be made more easily
readable in the near future, but all the newsgroups will enjoy
a more manageable number of articles. This proposal has
taken pains to be as simple and as logical as possible, including
only the smallest number of newsgroups possible to better organize
and propegate this topic.
Notes on this RFD
-----------------
This 1st RFD is being posted on July 18, 1995
to the following groups:
news.groups
news.announce.newgroups
sci.psychology.announce
sci.psychology.misc
alt.support.depression
alt.support.depression.manic
alt.support.depression.seasonal
alt.support
and may be freely distributed to any other groups or
mailing lists where it might be of relevance. Please
leave the Followup-To: header intact. Persons not able
to communicate or post directly to Usenet may mail their
comments or questions to: [email protected]
All pertinent discussion relating to this RFD
should take place on news.groups, hence
follow-ups have been directed there. I strongly
urge readers to limit their discussion on this
RFD to news.groups, as is the recognized
convention.
Thanks go out to Daniel Hartung, and many others,
who made comments on earlier versions of this RFD.
Call for Votes
--------------
The CFV is expected to be posted in approximately 30 days,
on or around August 14, 1995.
The CFV is expected to be conducted by an independent
vote-taker, arranged through the UVV. The CFV will be
sent out to the same newsgroups (listed above) as the RFD
was sent to. Details on voting will be posted in the CFV.
From [email protected] Tue Sep 5 15:35:41 1995
Path: uunet!bounce-back
From: [email protected] (Michael Handler)
Newsgroups: news.announce.newgroups,news.groups,sci.psychology.announce,sci.psychology.misc,alt.support.depression,alt.support.depression.manic,alt.support.depression.seasonal,alt.support
Subject: CFV: soc.support.depression.* new hierarchy
Followup-To: poster
Date: 5 Sep 1995 19:35:36 -0000
Organization: Usenet Volunteer Votetakers [UVV]
Lines: 290
Sender: [email protected]
Approved: [email protected]
Expires: 27 Sep 1995 00:00:00 GMT
Message-ID:
Reply-To: [email protected]
NNTP-Posting-Host: rodan.uu.net
Archive-Name: soc.support.depression
Xref: uunet news.announce.newgroups:7449 news.groups:166851 sci.psychology.announce:88 sci.psychology.misc:1052 alt.support.depression:51623 alt.support.depression.manic:1292 alt.support.depression.seasonal:253 alt.support:8991
FIRST CALL FOR VOTES (of 2)
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.crisis
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.family
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.manic
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.misc
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.seasonal
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.treatment
Newsgroups line:
soc.support.depression.crisis Personal crisis situations.
soc.support.depression.family Coping with depressed people.
soc.support.depression.manic Bipolar/manic-depression.
soc.support.depression.misc Depression and mood disorders.
soc.support.depression.seasonal Seasonal affective disorder.
soc.support.depression.treatment Treatments of depression.
Votes must be received by 23:59:59 UTC, 26 Sep 1995.
This vote is being conducted by a neutral third party and a member of the
Usenet Volunteer Votetakers [UVV]. For questions about the vote, the
voting process, or voting mechanics, please contact Michael Handler
. If you have any other questions about this
proposal, please contact the proponent for this proposal, John M. Grohol
.
RATIONALE: soc.support.depression.crisis
In the survey, 7-12% of all articles were related to individuals
seeking immediate sorts of help and tips for relief from their
depression and suicidal feelings. While some individuals can handle
the constant requests for help, others have expressed some difficulty
in seeing them every day. This newsgroup would set aside a specific
newsgroup for those individuals in need of immediate support.
RATIONALE: soc.support.depression.family
Recent discussions have surfaced on alt.support.depression about the
lack of a discussion area for spouses and other family members of how
to deal with their loved ones being depressed. Depression often takes
an exacting yet overlooked toll on significant others and family
systems, as well as friends. This support group would give these
individuals an area in which to freely exchange mutual types of
feelings and ideas on how to cope with the depressed person in their
lives.
Like another newsgroup that is being proposed in this RFD
(soc.support.depression.treatment), this group is being proposed in
the soc.support hierarchy rather than under the alt.support hierarchy
to have better propagation of this important topic.
RATIONALE: soc.support.depression.manic
To better propagate the support discussion of those individuals
suffering from this specific sub-type of depression. The current
newsgroup receives poor propagation, and yet this topic is a logical
branch from the proposed soc.support.depression.* hierarchy. It is a
different enough disorder, however, to make individuals suffering from
it to be less able to relate well to those suffering from only major
depressive disorder. Manic-depression is used, rather than the more
up-to-date term, bipolar, since it is more recognizable to most people
and parallels the existing alt group.
RATIONALE: soc.support.depression.misc
In the survey, nearly 60-65% of all posts were directly related to the
supportive discussion of depression and related mood disorders. This
group is being proposed to increase propagation of this topic and
allow for better organization of this topic under the soc.support.*
hierarchy.
RATIONALE: soc.support.depression.seasonal
To better propagate the support discussion of those individuals
suffering from this specific sub-type of depression. The current
newsgroup receives poor propagation, and yet this topic is a logical
branch from the proposed soc.support.depression.* hierarchy. It is a
different enough disorder, however, to make individuals suffering from
it to be less able to relate well to those suffering from only major
depressive disorder.
RATIONALE: soc.support.depression.treatment
One of the most popular topics in a.s.d., accounting for approximately
25-30% of all the articles posted. Since medication and psychotherapy
are both important aspects of most people's treatment for depression,
no distinction is made here between the two. If, in the future, it
becomes apparent that individual newsgroups for both are warranted,
they can be created in this hierarchy.
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.crisis
For helping those individuals suffering from severe depressive and
suicidal feelings who are seeking immediate responses in a personal
crisis situation. Only articles asking for help or those offering
immediate support can be posted here.
All other articles, such as flames, commercial postings, or
discussions on individuals seeking help, are strictly
prohibited. Crossposting is also highly discouraged.
END CHARTER.
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.family
For the discussion of coping with family members, spouses, or friends
who are depressed. Topics appropriate for this newsgroup would be the
discussion of coping skills and exchanging of ideas and feelings about
how individuals deal with significant others in their lives who are
suffering from any type of depressive disorder. Commercial postings
of any type are prohibited from this newsgroup, and crossposting to
other soc.support.depression.* groups is discouraged. As with all
soc.support newsgroups, flames are not welcome in this group as well.
END CHARTER.
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.manic
For the discussion of bipolar disorder (also known as
manic-depression), which is characterized by specific and discrete
episodes of depression and mania (an excess of energy & grandiosity of
mood and self). This newsgroup is being proposed not to replace the
current alt.support.depression.manic, but as a logical and
better-propagated complement to it. Commercial postings are
specifically prohibited.
END CHARTER.
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.misc
For the discussion of depression and other serious mood disorders
(such as dysthymic disorder). This newsgroup is being proposed not to
replace the current alt.support.depression, but rather as a complement
to it. Crossposting between the newsgroups can and will
occur. Commercial postings of any sort are strictly prohibited. This
newsgroup would also be for the discussion area for any other
newsgroup proposed which did not pass its vote.
END CHARTER.
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.seasonal
For the discussion of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which is a
sub-type of depression that is characterized by a major depressive
episode occurring only during the change of or throughout specific
seasons (e.g.- depression experienced only in the winter months in the
north). This newsgroup is being proposed not to replace the current
alt.support.depression.seasonal, but as a logical and
better-propagated complement to it. Commercial postings are
specifically prohibited.
END CHARTER.
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.treatment
For the discussion of various treatment options of depression, whether
it is psychotherapy, medication, alternative therapies, home-made
remedies, or some combination of them. Any topic that offers solutions
and options for the treatment of depression is appropriate
here. Discussion of personal experiences, research, and professional
opinions of the treatment of depression would also be
appropriate. Advocacy on a particular treatment method is discouraged
or should only be done in a nonjudgmental and supportive style.
Out-and-out debates or arguments on treatment options as well as
commercial postings of any sort are not appropriate nor allowed in
this newsgroup.
END CHARTER.
HOW TO VOTE:
One vote counted per person, no more than one per account. Attempts at
ballot box stuffing or vote fraud will not be treated lightly.
**************************************************************************
*** IMPORTANT: Email addresses, names, and votes of all voters will be ***
*** published in the final voting results list. UVV voting is not done ***
*** by secret ballot. If you don't like this policy, don't vote. ***
**************************************************************************
Erase everything above the top "========" line and erase everything below
the bottom "==========" line. Do not erase anything between these lines.
Do not change the group names. Give your name on the line that asks for
it.
For each group, place either YES, NO, or ABSTAIN in each set of square
brackets next to the group name.
If you vote ABSTAIN on a group, your vote will be registered and will be
shown in the final results posting, but it will not affect the outcome of
the vote on that group. It is intended as a form of symbolic protest,
nothing more.
If you don't want to vote on a particular group, just leave the space
blank. Leaving a box blank is counted as voting ABSTAIN for that group --
it does not affect the outcome of the vote for that group. If you wish to
abstain from all of the groups, please say ABSTAIN. If you leave all of
the groups blank, your vote will be rejected for failure to cast any
votes.
You can also CANCEL your vote, by placing CANCEL in the square brackets
to the left of one or more group names. If you do CANCEL your vote, your
vote will be purged from the active results file, and your name and
address will not be listed in the final results posting.
Don't worry about spacing of the columns or any quote characters (">")
that your reply inserts.
If you later change your mind, you may vote again from the same account.
Only your last valid vote will be registered in the final count.
Please note that the only valid values to place in the brackets are
"YES", "NO", "ABSTAIN", or "CANCEL". Do not place anything else in the
brackets -- it will not be counted. Specifically: "X" is not a valid vote.
Then email the ballot to: . Just replying to
this message should work if you're reading it this on a mailing list.
Quick voting checklist:
1) Fill in the ballot form below. Don't forget to include your Real Name.
2) Delete everything but the ballot in your reply to this CFV.
3) Make sure your reply goes to .
========== BEGINNING OF BALLOT: Delete everything before this line ==========
(Don't remove this marker)
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.{crisis,family,manic,misc,seasonal,treatment} Ballot
Type your real name here --->
[Your Vote] Group
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
[ YES ] example.yes.vote
[ NO ] example.no.vote
[ ABSTAIN ] example.abstention
[ ] soc.support.depression.crisis
[ ] soc.support.depression.family
[ ] soc.support.depression.manic
[ ] soc.support.depression.misc
[ ] soc.support.depression.seasonal
[ ] soc.support.depression.treatment
============== END OF BALLOT: Delete everything after this line ==============
Anything else may be rejected by the automatic vote counting
program. The votetaker will respond to your received ballots with a
personal acknowledgement by mail -- if you do not receive one within
several days, try again. It's your responsibility to make sure your vote
is registered correctly.
After the final results are posted to , there
will then be a five-day period during which the published vote list may be
corrected and any irregularities addressed.
OFFICIAL SOURCES OF THE CFV
The only official sources of this CFV are:
* The copy which was crossposted to
* Any copies which were sent to mailing lists *by* *the* *votetaker*
* One received from the votetaker's automated mailserver
If you want to receive a copy of the CFV from the votetaker's mailserver,
send an email message to . The text of your
message does not matter; this is an automated function. A computer handles
this, not a human.
IMPORTANT: If anyone gave you a pre-completed ballot which did not leave
all of the voting choices up to you, you should modify the votes to
reflect your choice of YES, NO or ABSTAIN on each item in the ballot. If
you give anyone copies of the CFV, the copies must be whole and
unmodified. Distributing pre-filled in ballots or modified copies of this
CFV is considered voting fraud. If this occurs on a large scale or causes
voting problems or irregularities, the vote may be canceled.
When in doubt, ask the votetaker.
DISTRIBUTION:
This Call For Votes (CFV) has been crossposted to the following newsgroups:
news.announce.newgroups, news.groups, sci.psychology.announce,
sci.psychology.misc, alt.support.depression, alt.support.depression.manic,
alt.support.depression.seasonal, alt.support
After this Call For Votes (CFV) appears in , it
will be sent to the following mailing lists:
* Madness
* Pendulum
--
Michael Handler Usenet Volunteer Votetakers (UVV)
From [email protected] Tue Sep 19 13:50:53 1995
Path: uunet!bounce-back
From: [email protected] (Michael Handler)
Newsgroups: news.announce.newgroups,news.groups,sci.psychology.announce,sci.psychology.misc,alt.support.depression,alt.support.depression.manic,alt.support.depression.seasonal,alt.support
Subject: 2nd CFV: soc.support.depression.* new hierarchy
Followup-To: poster
Date: 19 Sep 1995 17:50:48 -0000
Organization: Usenet Volunteer Votetakers [UVV]
Lines: 295
Sender: [email protected]
Approved: [email protected]
Expires: 27 Sep 1995 00:00:00 GMT
Message-ID:
Reply-To: [email protected]
NNTP-Posting-Host: rodan.uu.net
Archive-Name: soc.support.depression
Xref: uunet news.announce.newgroups:7542 news.groups:167720 sci.psychology.announce:104 sci.psychology.misc:1299 alt.support.depression:54275 alt.support.depression.manic:1421 alt.support.depression.seasonal:312 alt.support:9068
LAST CALL FOR VOTES (of 2)
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.crisis
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.family
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.manic
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.misc
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.seasonal
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.treatment
Newsgroups line:
soc.support.depression.crisis Personal crisis situations.
soc.support.depression.family Coping with depressed people.
soc.support.depression.manic Bipolar/manic-depression.
soc.support.depression.misc Depression and mood disorders.
soc.support.depression.seasonal Seasonal affective disorder.
soc.support.depression.treatment Treatments of depression.
Votes must be received by 23:59:59 UTC, 26 Sep 1995.
This vote is being conducted by a neutral third party and a member of the
Usenet Volunteer Votetakers [UVV]. For questions about the vote, the
voting process, or voting mechanics, please contact Michael Handler
. If you have any other questions about this
proposal, please contact the proponent for this proposal, John M. Grohol
.
RATIONALE: soc.support.depression.crisis
In the survey, 7-12% of all articles were related to individuals
seeking immediate sorts of help and tips for relief from their
depression and suicidal feelings. While some individuals can handle
the constant requests for help, others have expressed some difficulty
in seeing them every day. This newsgroup would set aside a specific
newsgroup for those individuals in need of immediate support.
RATIONALE: soc.support.depression.family
Recent discussions have surfaced on alt.support.depression about the
lack of a discussion area for spouses and other family members of how
to deal with their loved ones being depressed. Depression often takes
an exacting yet overlooked toll on significant others and family
systems, as well as friends. This support group would give these
individuals an area in which to freely exchange mutual types of
feelings and ideas on how to cope with the depressed person in their
lives.
Like another newsgroup that is being proposed in this RFD
(soc.support.depression.treatment), this group is being proposed in
the soc.support hierarchy rather than under the alt.support hierarchy
to have better propagation of this important topic.
RATIONALE: soc.support.depression.manic
To better propagate the support discussion of those individuals
suffering from this specific sub-type of depression. The current
newsgroup receives poor propagation, and yet this topic is a logical
branch from the proposed soc.support.depression.* hierarchy. It is a
different enough disorder, however, to make individuals suffering from
it to be less able to relate well to those suffering from only major
depressive disorder. Manic-depression is used, rather than the more
up-to-date term, bipolar, since it is more recognizable to most people
and parallels the existing alt group.
RATIONALE: soc.support.depression.misc
In the survey, nearly 60-65% of all posts were directly related to the
supportive discussion of depression and related mood disorders. This
group is being proposed to increase propagation of this topic and
allow for better organization of this topic under the soc.support.*
hierarchy.
RATIONALE: soc.support.depression.seasonal
To better propagate the support discussion of those individuals
suffering from this specific sub-type of depression. The current
newsgroup receives poor propagation, and yet this topic is a logical
branch from the proposed soc.support.depression.* hierarchy. It is a
different enough disorder, however, to make individuals suffering from
it to be less able to relate well to those suffering from only major
depressive disorder.
RATIONALE: soc.support.depression.treatment
One of the most popular topics in a.s.d., accounting for approximately
25-30% of all the articles posted. Since medication and psychotherapy
are both important aspects of most people's treatment for depression,
no distinction is made here between the two. If, in the future, it
becomes apparent that individual newsgroups for both are warranted,
they can be created in this hierarchy.
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.crisis
For helping those individuals suffering from severe depressive and
suicidal feelings who are seeking immediate responses in a personal
crisis situation. Only articles asking for help or those offering
immediate support can be posted here.
All other articles, such as flames, commercial postings, or
discussions on individuals seeking help, are strictly
prohibited. Crossposting is also highly discouraged.
END CHARTER.
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.family
For the discussion of coping with family members, spouses, or friends
who are depressed. Topics appropriate for this newsgroup would be the
discussion of coping skills and exchanging of ideas and feelings about
how individuals deal with significant others in their lives who are
suffering from any type of depressive disorder. Commercial postings
of any type are prohibited from this newsgroup, and crossposting to
other soc.support.depression.* groups is discouraged. As with all
soc.support newsgroups, flames are not welcome in this group as well.
END CHARTER.
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.manic
For the discussion of bipolar disorder (also known as
manic-depression), which is characterized by specific and discrete
episodes of depression and mania (an excess of energy & grandiosity of
mood and self). This newsgroup is being proposed not to replace the
current alt.support.depression.manic, but as a logical and
better-propagated complement to it. Commercial postings are
specifically prohibited.
END CHARTER.
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.misc
For the discussion of depression and other serious mood disorders
(such as dysthymic disorder). This newsgroup is being proposed not to
replace the current alt.support.depression, but rather as a complement
to it. Crossposting between the newsgroups can and will
occur. Commercial postings of any sort are strictly prohibited. This
newsgroup would also be for the discussion area for any other
newsgroup proposed which did not pass its vote.
END CHARTER.
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.seasonal
For the discussion of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which is a
sub-type of depression that is characterized by a major depressive
episode occurring only during the change of or throughout specific
seasons (e.g.- depression experienced only in the winter months in the
north). This newsgroup is being proposed not to replace the current
alt.support.depression.seasonal, but as a logical and
better-propagated complement to it. Commercial postings are
specifically prohibited.
END CHARTER.
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.treatment
For the discussion of various treatment options of depression, whether
it is psychotherapy, medication, alternative therapies, home-made
remedies, or some combination of them. Any topic that offers solutions
and options for the treatment of depression is appropriate
here. Discussion of personal experiences, research, and professional
opinions of the treatment of depression would also be
appropriate. Advocacy on a particular treatment method is discouraged
or should only be done in a nonjudgmental and supportive style.
Out-and-out debates or arguments on treatment options as well as
commercial postings of any sort are not appropriate nor allowed in
this newsgroup.
END CHARTER.
HOW TO VOTE:
One vote counted per person, no more than one per account. Attempts at
ballot box stuffing or vote fraud will not be treated lightly.
**************************************************************************
*** IMPORTANT: Email addresses, names, and votes of all voters will be ***
*** published in the final voting results list. UVV voting is not done ***
*** by secret ballot. If you don't like this policy, don't vote. ***
**************************************************************************
Erase everything above the top "========" line and erase everything below
the bottom "==========" line. Do not erase anything between these lines.
Do not change the group names. Give your name on the line that asks for
it.
For each group, place either YES, NO, or ABSTAIN in each set of square
brackets next to the group name.
If you vote ABSTAIN on a group, your vote will be registered and will be
shown in the final results posting, but it will not affect the outcome of
the vote on that group. It is intended as a form of symbolic protest,
nothing more.
If you don't want to vote on a particular group, just leave the space
blank. Leaving a box blank is counted as voting ABSTAIN for that group --
it does not affect the outcome of the vote for that group. If you wish to
abstain from all of the groups, please say ABSTAIN. If you leave all of
the groups blank, your vote will be rejected for failure to cast any
votes.
You can also CANCEL your vote, by placing CANCEL in the square brackets
to the left of one or more group names. If you do CANCEL your vote, your
vote will be purged from the active results file, and your name and
address will not be listed in the final results posting.
Don't worry about spacing of the columns or any quote characters (">")
that your reply inserts.
If you later change your mind, you may vote again from the same account.
Only your last valid vote will be registered in the final count.
Please note that the only valid values to place in the brackets are
"YES", "NO", "ABSTAIN", or "CANCEL". Do not place anything else in the
brackets -- it will not be counted. Specifically: "X" is not a valid vote.
Then email the ballot to: . Just replying to
this message should work if you're reading it this on a mailing list.
Quick voting checklist:
1) Fill in the ballot form below. Don't forget to include your Real Name.
2) Delete everything but the ballot in your reply to this CFV.
3) Make sure your reply goes to .
========== BEGINNING OF BALLOT: Delete everything before this line ==========
(Don't remove this marker)
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.{crisis,family,manic,misc,seasonal,treatment} Ballot
Type your real name here --->
[Your Vote] Group
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
[ YES ] example.yes.vote
[ NO ] example.no.vote
[ ABSTAIN ] example.abstention
[ ] soc.support.depression.crisis
[ ] soc.support.depression.family
[ ] soc.support.depression.manic
[ ] soc.support.depression.misc
[ ] soc.support.depression.seasonal
[ ] soc.support.depression.treatment
============== END OF BALLOT: Delete everything after this line ==============
Anything else may be rejected by the automatic vote counting
program. The votetaker will respond to your received ballots with a
personal acknowledgement by mail -- if you do not receive one within
several days, try again. It's your responsibility to make sure your vote
is registered correctly.
After the final results are posted to , there
will then be a five-day period during which the published vote list may be
corrected and any irregularities addressed.
OFFICIAL SOURCES OF THE CFV
The only official sources of this CFV are:
* The copy which was crossposted to
* Any copies which were sent to mailing lists *by* *the* *votetaker*
* One received from the votetaker's automated mailserver
If you want to receive a copy of the CFV from the votetaker's mailserver,
send an email message to . The text of your
message does not matter; this is an automated function. A computer handles
this, not a human.
IMPORTANT: If anyone gave you a pre-completed ballot which did not leave
all of the voting choices up to you, you should modify the votes to
reflect your choice of YES, NO or ABSTAIN on each item in the ballot. If
you give anyone copies of the CFV, the copies must be whole and
unmodified. Distributing pre-filled in ballots or modified copies of this
CFV is considered voting fraud. If this occurs on a large scale or causes
voting problems or irregularities, the vote may be canceled.
When in doubt, ask the votetaker.
DISTRIBUTION:
This Call For Votes (CFV) has been crossposted to the following newsgroups:
news.announce.newgroups, news.groups, sci.psychology.announce,
sci.psychology.misc, alt.support.depression, alt.support.depression.manic,
alt.support.depression.seasonal, alt.support
After this Call For Votes (CFV) appears in , it
will be sent to the following mailing lists:
* Madness
* Pendulum
--
Michael Handler Usenet Volunteer Votetakers (UVV)
soc.support.depression.{crisis,family,manic,misc,seasonal,treatment}
Bounce List - No need to revote
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
marko@software Mark C. Orton
From [email protected] Fri Oct 13 17:47:11 1995
Path: uunet!bounce-back
From: [email protected] (Michael Handler)
Newsgroups: news.announce.newgroups,news.groups,sci.psychology.misc,alt.support.depression,alt.support.depression.manic,alt.support.depression.seasonal,alt.support,sci.psychology.announce
Subject: RESULT: soc.support.depression.* new hierarchy: all groups pass
Supersedes:
Followup-To: news.groups
Date: 13 Oct 1995 21:47:04 -0000
Organization: Usenet Volunteer Votetakers
Lines: 338
Sender: [email protected]
Approved: [email protected]
Message-ID:
References:
NNTP-Posting-Host: rodan.uu.net
Archive-Name: soc.support.depression
Xref: uunet news.announce.newgroups:7698 news.groups:170219 sci.psychology.misc:1677 alt.support.depression:59175 alt.support.depression.manic:1819 alt.support.depression.seasonal:495 alt.support:9347 sci.psychology.announce:137
RESULT
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.crisis passes 129:29
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.family passes 137:22
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.manic passes 127:33
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.misc passes 136:25
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.seasonal passes 126:24
unmoderated group soc.support.depression.treatment passes 140:24
soc.support.depression.{crisis,family,manic,misc,seasonal,treatment}
results - 170 valid votes
Yes No : 2/3? >100? : Pass? : Group
---- ---- : ---- ----- : ----- : -------------------------------------------
129 28 : Yes Yes : Yes : soc.support.depression.crisis
137 22 : Yes Yes : Yes : soc.support.depression.family
127 23 : Yes Yes : Yes : soc.support.depression.manic
136 25 : Yes Yes : Yes : soc.support.depression.misc
126 24 : Yes Yes : Yes : soc.support.depression.seasonal
140 24 : Yes Yes : Yes : soc.support.depression.treatment
3 invalid votes
soc.support.depression.crisis passed on Tue Sep 26 06:02:56 1995
soc.support.depression.family passed on Sat Sep 23 13:50:29 1995
soc.support.depression.manic passed on Mon Sep 25 23:15:34 1995
soc.support.depression.misc passed on Sun Sep 24 01:59:45 1995
soc.support.depression.seasonal passed on Tue Sep 26 05:55:27 1995
soc.support.depression.treatment passed on Sat Sep 23 23:37:28 1995
Newsgroups lines:
soc.support.depression.crisis Personal crisis situations.
soc.support.depression.family Coping with depressed people.
soc.support.depression.manic Bipolar/manic-depression.
soc.support.depression.misc Depression and mood disorders.
soc.support.depression.seasonal Seasonal affective disorder.
soc.support.depression.treatment Treatments of depression.
The voting period closed at 23:59:59 UTC, 26 Sep 1995.
This vote is being conducted by a neutral third party and a member of the
Usenet Volunteer Votetakers [UVV]. For questions about the vote, the
voting process, or voting mechanics, please contact Michael Handler
. If you have any other questions about this
proposal, please contact the proponent for this proposal,
This vote is being conducted by a neutral third party. Questions about the
proposed group should be directed to the proponent.
Proponent: "John M. Grohol"
Votetaker: Michael Handler
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.crisis
For helping those individuals suffering from severe depressive and
suicidal feelings who are seeking immediate responses in a personal
crisis situation. Only articles asking for help or those offering
immediate support can be posted here.
All other articles, such as flames, commercial postings, or
discussions on individuals seeking help, are strictly
prohibited. Crossposting is also highly discouraged.
END CHARTER.
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.family
For the discussion of coping with family members, spouses, or friends
who are depressed. Topics appropriate for this newsgroup would be the
discussion of coping skills and exchanging of ideas and feelings about
how individuals deal with significant others in their lives who are
suffering from any type of depressive disorder. Commercial postings
of any type are prohibited from this newsgroup, and crossposting to
other soc.support.depression.* groups is discouraged. As with all
soc.support newsgroups, flames are not welcome in this group as well.
END CHARTER.
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.manic
For the discussion of bipolar disorder (also known as
manic-depression), which is characterized by specific and discrete
episodes of depression and mania (an excess of energy & grandiosity of
mood and self). This newsgroup is being proposed not to replace the
current alt.support.depression.manic, but as a logical and
better-propagated complement to it. Commercial postings are
specifically prohibited.
END CHARTER.
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.misc
For the discussion of depression and other serious mood disorders
(such as dysthymic disorder). This newsgroup is being proposed not to
replace the current alt.support.depression, but rather as a complement
to it. Crossposting between the newsgroups can and will
occur. Commercial postings of any sort are strictly prohibited. This
newsgroup would also be for the discussion area for any other
newsgroup proposed which did not pass its vote.
END CHARTER.
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.seasonal
For the discussion of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which is a
sub-type of depression that is characterized by a major depressive
episode occurring only during the change of or throughout specific
seasons (e.g.- depression experienced only in the winter months in the
north). This newsgroup is being proposed not to replace the current
alt.support.depression.seasonal, but as a logical and
better-propagated complement to it. Commercial postings are
specifically prohibited.
END CHARTER.
CHARTER: soc.support.depression.treatment
For the discussion of various treatment options of depression, whether
it is psychotherapy, medication, alternative therapies, home-made
remedies, or some combination of them. Any topic that offers solutions
and options for the treatment of depression is appropriate
here. Discussion of personal experiences, research, and professional
opinions of the treatment of depression would also be
appropriate. Advocacy on a particular treatment method is discouraged
or should only be done in a nonjudgmental and supportive style.
Out-and-out debates or arguments on treatment options as well as
commercial postings of any sort are not appropriate nor allowed in
this newsgroup.
END CHARTER.
***************************************************************************
*** The following results posting is Copyright 1995 Michael Handler and ***
*** Sub Rosa Software, Inc. Usage of the following list or any part ***
*** thereof as a mass mailing list or for any other purpose without the ***
*** express written consent of the votetaker is strictly prohibited. ***
*** Said prohibition may be enforced by law. ***
***************************************************************************
soc.support.depression.{crisis,family,manic,misc,seasonal,treatment} Final Vote Ack
soc.support.depression.treatment --------+
soc.support.depression.seasonal -------+|
soc.support.depression.misc ------+||
soc.support.depression.manic -----+|||
soc.support.depression.family ----+||||
soc.support.depression.crisis ---+|||||
||||||
[email protected] Michael Mouer YYYYYY
[email protected] Mean Green Dancing Machine YYYYYY
[email protected] Andres Adrover YYYNYY
[email protected] Angela Browne Y-YYNN
[email protected] Tina M. Wood YYYYYY
[email protected] Alan Thew YYYYYY
[email protected] Susan Hill YYYYYY
[email protected] Andy Caunitis YYYYYY
[email protected] Alice Taylor YYYYYY
[email protected] Barb Grajewski YYYYYY
[email protected] Bill Boger --Y-YY
[email protected] Brian Butters YYYYYY
[email protected] Nancy E. Miller YYYYYY
[email protected] allen nicholson YYYYYY
[email protected] Derek Beatty NY-YYY
[email protected] Dan Birchall -YYYY-
[email protected] B.J. Herbison ---Y--
[email protected] Carol Williams YYYNYY
[email protected] Brus Wasson YYYYYY
[email protected] GREG YOUNG YYYYYY
[email protected] HONGKIEU VU YN--NY
[email protected] Barbara S. Wand YYYYYY
[email protected] Carl Carlin YYYYYY
[email protected] Claire YYYYYY
[email protected] Susan Clark -Y-Y-Y
[email protected] Cindy L. Jones YYYYYY
[email protected] Margaret L. Baker YYYYYY
[email protected] Chris Merrow NNNNNN
[email protected] Cynthia Moore YYYYYY
[email protected] Mike Coleman YYYYYY
[email protected] John Bell YYYYYY
[email protected] Charles Padgett YYYYYY
[email protected] Julie Crain YYYYYY
[email protected] David Cromwell YYYYYY
[email protected] K. Crouch ------
[email protected] Michiel Wijers NNNNNN
[email protected] Christy Wolff YYYYYY
[email protected] Paul Decelles YYYYYY
[email protected] Ronda DeVold YYYYYY
[email protected] David Logan YYYYYY
[email protected] David Harmon YYYYYY
[email protected] David C. Moisan YYYYYY
[email protected] Cheryl Dragel YYYYYY
[email protected] Dave Sparks YYYYYY
[email protected] Duane T. Williams YYYYYY
[email protected] Dawn Elizabeth Suchy YYYYYY
[email protected] Elizabeth Brogan YYYYYY
[email protected] Ellen Keyne Seebacher -Y-Y-Y
[email protected] Jennifer A. Wand NY-N-N
[email protected] Jim Foote YYYYYY
[email protected] Linda Freund YYYNNY
[email protected] Gael M. Chaney ([email protected]) NYNYNN
[email protected] Gary James Mulder YYYYYY
[email protected] Graham West YYYYYY
[email protected] Daniel Greenberg YYYYYY
[email protected] Lynne O'Connor YYYYYY
[email protected] John M. Grohol YYYYYY
[email protected] Hank Roberts YYYYYY
[email protected] Carl Wong YYYY-Y
[email protected] Heike C. Zimmerer YYYYYY
[email protected] Stephan Heilmayr YYYYYY
[email protected] Heather Huelsbeck YYYYYY
[email protected] James A Kulacz
NNNNNN
[email protected] Mary E. Deaver YYYYYY
[email protected] Jim Miner YYYYYY
[email protected] Jim Hart YYYYYY
[email protected] Jeannie Howse YYYNYN
[email protected] Janet L. Hughes NY-Y-Y
[email protected] Julio Ken Rosenblatt YYYYYY
[email protected] Joe St Sauver YYYYYY
[email protected] Joe Clark YYYYYY
[email protected] Jon Ivar Skullerud NYYY-Y
[email protected] Joseph Rogers YYYYYY
[email protected] J. Porter Clark NYYYYN
[email protected] John R. MacWilliamson NNNNNN
[email protected] Joel Stanley Y--Y--
[email protected] Jonathan Young YYYYYY
[email protected] Kathleen Bennett YYYYYY
[email protected] [email protected] NNNNNN
[email protected] kiera koester YYYYYY
[email protected] Aaron Dickey YYYYYY
[email protected] Kurt Gutknecht YYYYYY
[email protected] Kathleen A. Whalen YYYYYY
[email protected] Lance Chun YYNYYY
[email protected] Leigh Melton YYYYYY
[email protected] Martin Schr"oder YYYYYY
[email protected] L. John Keller II YYYYYY
[email protected] Roy Hellinga YYYYYY
[email protected] Lou Puls YYYYYY
[email protected] Lane Singer Y--Y-Y
[email protected] Scott "BiPolarBear" Milliken YYYYYY
[email protected] Marc Moorcroft NNNNNN
[email protected] Mark C. Orton YY-N-Y
[email protected] Martin Hutchings NYYNYY
[email protected] Mark C. Wallace YYYYYY
[email protected] Shannon H. Shoemaker YYYYYY
[email protected] Michael Gordon YYYYYY
[email protected] Mark Odegard YYYYYY
[email protected] Mary Lynn Trotter ---Y-Y
[email protected] M Mike Taksar -NYNYY
[email protected] Mark Brader NNNYNN
[email protected] Ria Strong YYYYYY
[email protected] Matthew Kinney YY-Y-Y
[email protected] Michael W. Daniels YYYYYY
[email protected] Sandi Anderson YYYYYY
[email protected] Neil Harris YYYYYY
[email protected] Nancy Slator YY-Y-Y
[email protected] Olav Nieuwejaar YYYYYY
[email protected] Melissa O'Neill YYYY-Y
[email protected] david parsons YYYNYY
[email protected] Patrick J. LoPresti NNNNNN
[email protected] Patrick McDonald NNNNNN
[email protected] Helen Penrose YYYYYY
[email protected] Fred Vaughn YYYYYY
[email protected] Irene G. Plotzker YYYYYY
[email protected] Paul Bartlett --Y--Y
[email protected] Andreas Polzer YYYYYY
[email protected] Steven S. Popovich YYYYYY
[email protected] Ivan Goldberg YYYYYY
[email protected] Pete Bastien NNNNYN
[email protected] Matt Schnierle NNNYNN
[email protected] Rebecca Drayer YYYYYY
[email protected] Raffaele Ladu YYYYYY
[email protected] R Bruce Bicknell NNNNNN
[email protected] Rosey Temkin YYYYYY
[email protected] Richard H. Miller NNNYNN
[email protected] Thomas Ridgeway YYYYYY
[email protected] Rebecca Correll YYYYYY
[email protected] Robert Marvin YYYYYY
[email protected] Richard N. Schaefer YY---Y
[email protected] Rudy Nadler-Nir ----Y-
[email protected] Russ Herman YYYYYY
[email protected] Robert Wilkins YYYYYY
[email protected] Glen Patrick Ryan NNNNNN
[email protected] Juergen Weinelt NNN-NN
[email protected] Sheri Cooper -Y-Y-Y
[email protected] Shapard Wolf YYYYYY
[email protected] YYYYYY
[email protected] Sanford Forte ----YY
[email protected] Emily Way YYYYYY
[email protected] S.P.Zeidler YYYYYY
[email protected] Richard K. Worthington YYYYYY
[email protected] Dwight Brown NNNNNN
[email protected] Steve Poggio YYYYYY
[email protected] Frode Stokseth YYYYYY
[email protected] Stephen Van Egmond YYYYYY
[email protected] Sylvia Caras YYYYYY
[email protected] R. D. Miller NNNNNN
[email protected] Terry Gray YYYYYY
[email protected] Jim Thompson NNNYNY
[email protected] Bev Thornton YYYYYY
[email protected] Angela Teo YYYYYY
[email protected] Tom Jaskiewicz NNNNNN
[email protected] Todd C. Lawson NYNYNY
[email protected] Tabor J. Wells YYYYYY
[email protected] Tim MacKenzie YY-Y-Y
[email protected] Peter Wise YYYYYY
[email protected] Patricia Terris YYYYYY
[email protected] Ville Hakulinen YYYYYY
[email protected] Vickie Mapes YYYYYY
[email protected] Karen Anderson YYYYYY
[email protected] Wade Black ------
[email protected] Tom Wakelyn YYYNYY
[email protected] Mitchell Wand YYYYYY
[email protected] Sandra Whiting YYYYYY
[email protected] Risto Widenius NNNNNN
[email protected] Mark Buford YYYYYY
[email protected] Kent Paul Dolan YYYYYY
[email protected] Mike Porter YYYYYY
[email protected] Yaffa Sassoon YYYYYY
Votes in error
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[email protected] Gary Brown
! No ballot
[email protected]
! No ballot
[email protected] Kathleen Collins
! No vote statement in message
DISTRIBUTION:
This Call For Votes (CFV) has been crossposted to the following newsgroups:
news.announce.newgroups, news.groups, sci.psychology.announce,
sci.psychology.misc, alt.support.depression, alt.support.depression.manic,
alt.support.depression.seasonal, alt.support
--
Michael Handler Usenet Volunteer Votetakers (UVV)