Lives Of Quiet Desperation

After reading about Susan Smith's murder of her two children, hundreds of readers wrote to express their concern ((Cover Stories, Nov. 14)). Particularly moving was the letter we received from one woman in Virginia, describing her own troubled situation:

A few months ago, I went to my family doctor complaining of depression and somehow managed to confess to him that my real concern was an overwhelming urge to kill my three young children and myself. Fortunately, he did not show any revulsion but rather great compassion. I was quickly placed on medication and given the kind of daily support I needed. All weapons were removed from my home for a period of time. Through therapy, I am learning about myself. I fit the profile of murderous parents, under a lot of stress, socially isolated and in poverty. Now I know how to better nurture myself and my family. The purpose of this letter is to suggest that you could serve your readers by pointing out that there is help for those who feel they don't know where to turn, places where they will not be shamed or reviled. More of us are living lives of quiet desperation than you may realize, but we don't need to act on our fears if we can get proper help and support.

Name Withheld on Request

One source of assistance to call is Childhelp at 1-800-4ACHILD.