-
Tmeyer09 04/26/2012 3:31:00 AM
You are not his doctor. You are not family. You are not a friend. You are someone who is expected to keep a professional demeanor and be respectful since you are expecting an interview from him. You have no business writing about something so personal, something you have no ownership of (if he wants to write about it, that's fine, it's his business...but it's not yours). He doesn't have to prove himself to you, just as you wouldn't feel obligated to prove yourself to him. In short, you're an inconsiderate, insensitive, presumptuous ass.
-
Johnkrecklow 04/24/2012 4:38:00 AM
What is the point of writing or creating a piece of work that no one respects. I'm pretty sure I'm thirty comments in and no one has said a positive thing about your judgmental article. Man God is the true judge. I don't care what you believe, when you have to answer to him someday this is going to come up.
-
Shesarebel046 04/14/2012 7:51:00 PM
Fuck you John Lomax.
-
Krwilliams1978 04/13/2012 3:43:00 PM
My Father suffers form Bi-Polar disorder. I have been dealing with it for over 30 years. A person who suffers from Bi-Polar usually has the ability to "look" happy-go-lucky to an untrained eye. All of the things that have been discribed about him as a teenager are signs of a manic episode. Also the fact that the stories vary is a sign of the illness. My Father can tell three different versions of the same story in the same day. While I do not know if Justin Furstenfeld is Bi-Polar or not, the way that you are questioning it makes me sick. The point is mental illness is something that should be talked about, more people should try to educate themselves. He is doing a great thing in bringing awareness to the subject.
-
Skynex 02/16/2012 9:16:00 AM
The first time I heard the song Weight of the World I cried. I don't usually listen to lyrics but those jumped out at me. I truely felt that way. I was diagnose bi polar 16 years ago. A lot of the lyrics speak to me. Nobody truly understands what it's like to be bi polar unless they are bi polar too. You don't know what it's like to see yourself act certain ways that aren't really in your nature. He definitly has an understanding for depressed or bi polar emotions. If I was irritable and you asked for my rx I would blow up on you too. Even if it seems like something small it can trigger a huge reaction with someone that is bi polar. When you said that in his junior high school years he seemed happy go lucky, did those people see him when he was alone? That happy go lucky persona can come out but the depressed emotions can be lurking just below the surface. A lot of times I do that at work. When you said that doctors don't prescribe anti depressants for bi polar, just a mood stabilizers. I am prescribed both. Lamictal and cymbalta. And if you try to argue that I'm on a mood stabilizer already, my doctor tried to take me off it but that didn't work for me. Everyone is different. It took 18 months to get the right meds and dosages to level me out. It's not an easy or straight forward process. My friend Aaron appeared to be very happy, he was always laughing and hanging out with tons of friends. He was athletic good looking and had lots of pretty girls after him. All that going for him couldn't beat the demons he battled when he was alone. He hung himself last year. After reading your article I can't say I side with you. I can see him having bi polar. I'm not a doctor by any means but Ive battled bi polar for 16 years and I have a way better understanding then you do. People with bi polar are hard to understand, it makes life very hard. I'm not upset with you, just giving my opinion.
-
12/14/2011 8:26:00 PM
Sounds to me Mr.Lomax that you are just throwing jabs at Justin pissed off because you didnt get your interview. Do you know him personaly? You have no right to judge people based on other peoples opinions. I would like to see your written documentation that proves there is nothing wrong with Justin. You should be checking to see if your own hands are clean before laying judgement on someone else. Karma is a big angry bitch and she loves people such as yourself. I too am obviously a Big Blue Meanie..You sir are with my utmost respect..A Douchebag!! A Used up useless douchebag at that!!
Signed;
Another Blue Meanie
-
12/14/2011 8:23:00 PM
Sounds to me Mr.Lomax that you are just throwing jabs at Justin pissed off because you didnt get your interview. Do you know him personaly? You have no right to judge people based on other peoples opinions. I would like to see your written documentation that proves there is nothing wrong with Justin. You should be checking to see if your own hands are clean before laying judgement on someone else. Karma is a big angry bitch and she loves people such as yourself. I too am obviously a Big Blue Meanie..You sir are with my utmost respect..A Douchebag!! A Used up useless douchebag at that!!
Signed;
Another Blue Meanie
-
12/08/2011 8:34:00 AM
I have struggled with mental illness for as long as I can remember. When I first heard Hate Me I actually cried because I have never had a song touch me the way that song did. I also agree with other people that posted " you can't understand what someone with mental illness is going through unless you've been there and had to deal with all the shit that comes with it. I like Blue October's music and JF has a great voice. That being said I have wondered myself if JF does suffer from mental illness. His lyrics seem to be very sincere and honest but I have read some of the articles where he tells different stories about his mental illness. I also thought him telling this reporter " If someone said you suck cock on the weekend wouldn't you want to know who it was" Was a mean and insensitive thing to say since a lot of LGBT teens suffer from mental issues due to the harrasment and everything else they have to deal with. This wouldn't even be an issue if he wasen't famous. I guess it boils down to this. If your in the public eye you are going to be picked apart more then a normal person. In my opinion JF should just show this dude his RX bottle if he truley suffers from mental illness. It does appear sometimes he is using mental illness to create a image for himself to appeal to a certain crowd. I personally don't know if he is or not. I'm just stating my opinion on different sources I have read from. The guy is a talented musician and I feel he could still be an activist for mental ilness even if he doesen't suffer from it.
-
12/06/2011 11:33:00 PM
I´m bipolar and let me tell you "hate me" talks about something I have felt, its not about the dead of her mother, for me its about hating the pain you cause to someone when you are not well. I have no doubt he IS bipolar and thats because he has been the only singer who has put in word the feelings me and my group of terapy have talked about. Its because of people like you that its so hard at first to accept and get help for this kind of sickness, you should be really ashamed!!! I´ve been in treatment almost half of my life (thankfully) but just because my mom is a therapist. I cant imagine how horrible it must be to have a family that doesnt want to understand that this IT IS a sickness even if it doesnt show. And I do hate people that dont understand and want proof when its non of their bussiness. Can you imagine telling something that is so tabu (sadly) to everyone and have to show proof while you are falling deeply in depresion????? If you haven´t lived with this sickness you should just shut up and try to learn moron
-
Brittanyk4326 11/30/2011 11:30:00 PM
He was writing music a long time ago and I highly doubt if you think you're going to come up with a sweet new band you're gonna be like hey I should pretend to be a whiny crazy asshole. I'm pretty sure you would go with the cool route.
-
Amanda_stoker 11/27/2011 1:44:00 AM
I agree TK :)
-
Amanda_stoker 11/27/2011 1:43:00 AM
There are people out there who have been through what he has. I guess that's why we understand and you don't.
-
TK 11/25/2011 4:51:00 PM
He was probably known for being that way in his early school days because of the manic/hypomanic phase of the illness, dipshit. I've personally experienced mental health problems (psychotic depression with bipolar traits, if you fancy getting technical) during my teens, and have since recovered, having recieved therapy and medication (namely Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a Sodium Valproate brand named "Depakote" if you require further evidence) , and I'm now training to be a mental health nurse. Now, you're a reporter. A journalist. A blogger, even. So, what the fuck qualifies you to question anyone's mental health and state of mind in such a way? Shouldn't you be off stalking Paris Hilton, or trying to sniff Katy Perry's knickers? Yeah, I will grant you, sometimes it isn't outwardly obvious, because you can't see mental illnesses, but you don't go around questioning it in such a blunt, blase' fashion. That is rude, ignorant, and to the individual suffering from the mental illness is going to find that monstrously offensive, funnily enough. And believe me, that is coming from personal experience. Imagine if your mother died, and you were opening up to a friend about it, and their response was "Really? Can I see the death certificate? Because I think you're making it up". Or if you were diagnosed with a terminal cancer, and none of your friends believed you when you told them. You'd go ape shit, wouldn't you. And of course his old classmates are going to be bitchy and cynical; they probably only knew him on the surface, so only saw the outward behavior of hypomania or being difficult to deal with, and are most likely bitter that he's done pretty well for himself in life, seeing as he's a successful musician and spokesman for anti-suicide groups and more, despite his various difficulties. For future reference, don't go around saying things like "I don't think you're mentally ill" and then post a bitchy (and somewhat poorly written) attempt at a dissertation because (unsurprisingly enough) that person and those involved with them got the arsehole with you, and because you didn't like a song that they wrote prior to this. It really is people like you that make people with mental health problems feel ashamed, repressed, and as if it is wrong to speak out in regards to their issues, and continue to make that topic taboo. Do us a favor and get some perspective and ditch the white, upper-middle class, sheltered "holier-than-thou" attitude that your uneventful upbringing instilled in you.
-
Imachillifilli 11/18/2011 2:17:00 AM
I have a mental illness, do you want my proof too? Why would you ask for proof anyways? It's a very touchy thing to talk about. The only person who really knows about mine is my husband, and he got me through a lot. Justin is my hero for being open enough to the world about it. And you saying "I don't believe you're mentally ill " is one of the worst things you can say to someone who is. Personally, I would have said a big ol' "Fuck you" too! You're a jerk.
-
10/03/2011 12:48:00 AM
Ummm, no. 1700 people like me on Facebook, and about 30 of the people on my hate page are my friends and family who joined as a joke.
-
Funny Stuff 09/28/2011 2:45:00 AM
The most awesome thing is that there are more people that 'Like' the 'We hate John Lomax' Facebook page than actually like John Lomax's own Facebook page.
-
Ciera 09/25/2011 8:14:00 PM
Wow. You're really are a sick asshole and seem to enjoy putting people down. Just because people seem happy on the outside doesn't mean they don't have problems. Most people that end up with mental diseases are the ones you least expect. They're the ones who have everything set up for them but can't handle the pressure. He could have been a heartbreaker because he was too guarded to get involved. He might've bullied people to let out his own frustrations. He might be smiling and popular because he had things he felt he had to hide. The reason you write this shit about him is because you are an ASSHOLE. Also, it pays the bills. I bet you just love it when people write back to you and call you names. When you get a death threat you just revel in the fact that someone knows you're name. To put it simply, you're just jealous that you could never express emotions and problems the way Justin does. You may be a writer but you can't write, all you can do is bitch. You're a sorry fuck and a loser.
-
09/13/2011 10:49:00 PM
Just realized something... The reason this guy get's cover stories like this, is specifically BECAUSE he incites people. Think about it - with a "hater" article, he gets readers from BOTH sides of the coin, fans and people who dislike the band! Then, to add insult to injury, the story lives on, getting more attention (and more web hits and advertising dollars) as we all flock to the website to complain or support him.
Next time, just ignore this hack - or better yet, boycott the paper. I can tell you, I certainly won't be coming back (not even to see the replies to my posts) !
-
09/13/2011 10:24:00 PM
Ya know what ? There's more to Justin's lyrics and Blue October's music than just mental illness. Are you going to start questioning his history of drug abuse or his relationship trauma next ? Personally, even though I have people close to me who suffer from mental illness (and suspect I may even be bi-polar, despite a diagnosis), it was the OTHER things he writes about that drew me to his music. It's also quite possible that these other struggles he's had TRIGGERED his mental illness, or at the very least caused trauma to him that makes him identify with those suffering from mental illness. Did you ever think about that ?
-
09/13/2011 10:15:00 PM
Hey now...don't go bashing on Muse ! If I had to choose a favorite band, it'd be a toss up between them AND Blue October. I've also met them, and they're great guys (as well as Blue October).
-
arodthesaint 08/30/2011 5:09:00 AM
you are a pretty lousy person to tell someone who is mentally ill they have to prove it to you. who are YOU to that gives you the right to makes statements like that and then blow it all up saying "oh my goodness he freaked out because i asked something rude, over the top, and not any of my business". honestly, what reaction did you expect?
-
Sw33ttart 08/25/2011 12:06:00 AM
Whoever wrote this is an ass and should be fired. This is unprofessional, uncalled for, and why would you ask him that question?! That is a personal thing that doesnt have to be discussed if they dont want it to be.
P.S. if you are going to call us names come up with something better then Blue Meanie.
-
a1staek 08/24/2011 5:56:00 PM
You're easily the biggest jerk of a writer I've ever seen.
-
Michael 08/22/2011 6:33:00 PM
This is easily the most unprofessional and vindictive article I have ever read in my life. I am always amused at how some writers feel that people have to 'prove' something to them. Who are you to make such demands? You are nobody. Your article speaks more about your own ego than it does to Justin's. You got what you wanted, attention. So how does that make you any better or different than your accusations against Justin?
The thing that stand out to me the most is your comment that "This story could have gone a lot of ways". I will actually agree with you on that one, but I think you can look in the mirror for the blame. You assume that you are right about Justin making up his mental state, and that is why you chose to immediately attack him. Justin doesn't 'owe' you anything, and if you would have put your own arrogance aside and realize that, this interview might have gone a different direction.
Blue October's music has meaning and that itself makes it better than 75% of the songs that are written today. Where that 'meaning' comes from doesn't much matter, and Justin certainly doesn't have to justify it to you. That 'meaning' has probably helped many people get through a tough time in their life, and that alone has value. Maybe you can explain what positive was to come from this ridiculous diatribe?
-
Dorellyfashion 08/21/2011 12:38:00 PM
I believe YOU made yourself look bad with this article....wow 8 pages....how do you sleep at night?
-
Dorellyfashion 08/21/2011 12:21:00 PM
Your article a exhausting! You must really hate Justin! I wonder what he ever did to you? Its great what he's doing....what are you doing? I know, writing a hater article...that is making you look bad. That is one thing you must not know about mental illness, I've had it since forever...and no one knew. It was my secret. I was thought of the happy popular girl in High School....I didnt need to dress or act EMO to show my depression....its an internal thing. Most mentaly ill patients hide their illness...specially eating disorder patients as you must know....its great that he is speaking out. You need to do more research on mental illness and stop all this hater writing....plus he's from Houston...way to show support to a home guy! NoT
-
08/21/2011 9:46:00 AM
What an idiot you are! You don't understand mental illness or Justin Furstenfeld! Great journalism FUCKTARD!!!
-
08/19/2011 12:44:00 AM
first off i have mental illness and i was happy go lucky and highschool to. and you know what it didnt hit me hard until my early 20's and i was a mess and still am i suffer from major depression PTSD with pyscotic features and it really didnt hit me till then you know why? because your brain isnt fully developed till then. i beleave he did get hospitalized and you know the thing about his mom could have been mediforical i think also the fact he didnt wanna show you his meds is his right your not a doctor and to exsploit that makes you a horrible person. all he does is try to help those like him . he isnt proud of it and i think your doing all this just cause he called you out honestly on your BS and you just dont like the band get over it he is my hero and his music has gotten me through so much you cant see a physical ailments of mental illness but it is very hard to get through and people like you who do not suffer from it would have no idea what its like. he makes me feel like i am not alone and just so you know he did do those anti suicide concerts still.I would know i went to one.do more research before you start judging people please cause you make all of us with mental illness look like liers.
-
Bluefan 08/06/2011 11:23:00 AM
Mr Lomax,
You have NO right to ask for a Rx from anybody....who the F do you think you are? That is private information, nobody should have to disclose....You have NO IDEA what you are talking about and fortunately nobody you know is afflicted with mental illness.....you wait, your tie will come when somebody close to you will be struck with depression, bipolar, anxiety, etc....and then I want you to read your article, you ignorant person. You know what, you are not worth my time....
-
Chimera 07/26/2011 7:13:00 PM
Ok, Now this is actually in relation to a link, I deeply resent you implying "blue meanies" (your the only person I have heard use this term so maybe it is a local thing) are ignorant, stupid, or crazy. All this does is feed the view that you do indeed have a personal issue with Justin or the band and are using your position to grind that ax. You are welcome to question a public figures claims I believe, you are welcome to not understand a musical preference of another (someone explain to me the appeal of muse, or the black keys, or lady gaga) but you should not attack someone on a personal level because they like to listen to or find significance where you do not.
I like blue octobers music (although I am now deeply interested in having all the articles you cited as a way to show his inconsistencies, given enough time I will find them if they exist) but my relation to this particular bands lyrics does not in any way diminish my ability to think, be rational, or behave within societies acceptable perimeters.
"And this anonymous reader wanted the Post -- the home of Woodward and Bernstein -- to weigh in on my journalistic ethics. (Okay, I'm not sure why she's asking the humor columnist about this, but that's those crazy Blue Meanies for ya.)"
http://blogs.houstonpress.com/hairballs/2010/08/angry_blue_october_fan_appeals.php
-
guestt 07/26/2011 7:05:00 PM
Ok, Now this is actually in relation to a link, I deeply resent you implying "blue meanies" (your the only person I have heard use this term so maybe it is a local thing) are ignorant, stupid, or crazy. All this does is feed the view that you do indeed have a personal issue with Justin or the band and are using your position to grind that ax.
"And this anonymous reader wanted the Post -- the home of Woodward and Bernstein -- to weigh in on my journalistic ethics. (Okay, I'm not sure why she's asking the humor columnist about this, but that's those crazy Blue Meanies for ya.)"
-
guestt 07/26/2011 7:02:00 PM
Ok, Now this is actually in relation to a link, I deeply resent you implying "blue meanies" (your the only person I have heard use this term so maybe it is a local thing) are ignorant, stupid, or crazy.
-
Afanofboth 07/19/2011 9:15:00 AM
I agree with most of these comments that say you have a personal vendetta against Justin, it does kind of read like that, but that doesn't mean you aren't 100% right. I have always thought that Justin's personal struggles as reported in many articles were a little shady. I think he seems sort of selfish and phony and very contradictory. I think that there is something wrong with him, just not what he wants everyone to believe. When it comes down to it though I still love his music. I am a Blue October fan, I've bought the CD's, shirts, gone to the concerts, etc. I think that is what it should always come down to-the music. And that is a totally different subject, people will like it or they won't, to each their own. I think that this article should inspire more questions though and it would be nice if it inspired some truth. The comments make me sad, people can't see passed their own bias to even think about what you are saying. I hope I never become that blind. I just wanted to let you know that I really enjoyed this article.
-
Carnal894 07/13/2011 11:08:00 AM
You my friend are a peice of genuine shit. I hope one day you get whats coming to you, A punch right in the fucking mouth.
-
07/07/2011 9:42:00 AM
Since you are such a non-believer in people I wonder if you've contacted Michael J Fox to get proof of his Parkinsons?? Or are you putting it down to increadible acting??
-
Jpohl 06/24/2011 10:02:00 PM
The idiots in Texas really are bigger! Obviously this "writer" has too much time on his hands...there are 8 pages of bloated and ignorant rants that have no point. Thanks for posting though...it is a great example of stereotypical misconceptions of mental illness!
-
Kristinkleinman 06/17/2011 5:52:00 AM
Just because a person doesn't have medication does not mean he or she is not mentally ill. Justin uses his music as his therapy instead of prescribed mood-stabilizers. You obviously feel the need to write this malicious piece in order to soothe your own personal problems. Why don't you leave this amazing artist alone and see a doctor? By writing this, you are hurting all those who have been affected by suicide. Justin is doing a lot more good than you are. I know this because his music has saved my life on many occasions. You assumption that he is not mentally unstable is unfounded. Besides, you have no place to be judging someone else's feelings. This piece is a waste of words.
-
Redcmb65 06/10/2011 5:43:00 PM
I hope you dont just keep your vendetta solely focussed on Justin and extend it to other "famous" persons who also claim that they have mental ilnesses, disabilities, disease's or indeed a common cold!
I do believe in Justin as I do my best friend who has bi-polar. My belief and support in and for my friend is such that I do not need to see a bottle of pills or a medical certificate to account for his behaviour.
I think you need to move on from this and find something else to tackle your ill-informed and judgemental mind!
-
Devon Kelly 05/30/2011 12:55:00 AM
You, my friend, obviously have much more mental instability than Justin. Justin is creative and sweet, deperately wanting to save people from something that lead him to stare death in the face. My best friend committed suicide on december tenth of last year. i am selling bracelets to help raise suicide awareness. Are you gonna ask me for proof that shes dead? I gave Justin and the rest of the band those bracelets and they wore them on stage.
What kind of liars would take a gift from a fan and act like they feel for them?
They are great guys, and attcking Justin just to get a controversial, money-grabbing article written is selfish. Plus, you wanted to exploit him in his own hometown newspaper. Give me a break.
I recommend thinking about morals before business.
-
Christie Sweet1 05/23/2011 7:41:00 PM
This article made me feel many things. 1. Shock 2. Disbelief 3. Confusion... And then I began to rationalize this... Although your tirade was intended to build a case to make the reader conclude that Justin is a liar and a fake; anyone who would fake such mental issues is clearly sick, and there is no way to get around this. All you have to do is pick up a psychology book to know this. Pathological lying is directly tied to sociopathic behavior (especially narcissism) and/or bipolar disorder, mania, and schizophrenia as well as many other possible diagnosis. No sane and healthy person is a pathological liar; period. That is a moral flaw.
-
Amanda Washam 05/23/2011 5:47:00 PM
Well, I am not sure what I feel after reading this article. On one hand, I think you may have some underlying issues with Justin or his lyrics may just strike a nerve with you. Maybe you should consider talking to a professional a about your own issues and not justin's. And on the other hand I can kinda see your side of the issue . But Anyone can walk around with bottles of pills and in my opinion they could easily walk into
A dr office and get a piece of paper that said " crazy as fuck!". S
-
Cmbedford1983 05/09/2011 8:17:00 PM
All I can say is wow. I have seen Justin perform live, well over 30 times in the last 12 years. I can tell u that Justin is, or at least has been, very mentally I'll. It's been very apparent from stage prescences. I once watched him completely break down in tears and roll around on the ground in a fetal position during a show. This happened at a bar, in Lincoln, NE. I have also seen many shows where he appears well, and happy. He has issues. I can also say, that he ad Blue October saved my life, as I was a suicidal teen and young man. I struggled with many issues, and the music and lyrics of Blue October got me through it. So whiter u think it's fake or real, it works!! October 29th, 1997 is when he committed himself. If u r going to be a writer, at least be an educated writer. This is blatantly stated in a song he wrote. Know the music of a band u r goin to criticize my friend.
-
Lbrink71 05/03/2011 12:17:00 PM
You, my dear sir, need to read a book a psychology and/or mental illnesses. To suggest that a prescription could serve as "proof" of mental illness is naive and suggestive of a very uneducated person. Asking someone to prove that they suffer from a mental illness is just classless and immature. Would you consider asking a post-war veteran to prove that he was indeed traumatized by showing you a pill bottle?
I will refrain from heaping insults upon you since I am certain that you will eventually come to see yourself for what you are and that should serve as punishment enough. I truly hope that one day you are able to focus your passion for writing on a more inspirational subject.
-
Vickytoria1994 04/26/2011 1:12:00 AM
Leave Justin alone...it is clear you never dealt with depression or any other form of illness. You don't understand the pain in dealing with it. Why would anyone seriously want to talk about the illness thay strippes a person. Even if others said Justin never seemed depressed or have problems as a kid. I seem fine now people think Im happy but hell I dont want to be alive half of the time. It is people like you, that make people give up on everything.
-
Prettyflesh9 04/07/2011 3:38:00 PM
YOU are mentally ill. Who the hell puts so much time in trying to tear another person down?
What did he do steal your girlfriend or something?
-
Barb 02/22/2011 8:22:00 AM
Whether Justin is bipolar or schizophrenic, both of these conditions can show up in people in their late teens or early twenties. Your scenarios of his middle school and high school years don't hold much water then, do they? As for being a bit of a drama queen, maybe he is. It could be a sign of his mental illness. If you were ever lucky enough to suffer from a mental health condition, you would realize there is no way anyone would want to pretend to have one. I take 6 pills a day just to function, and I still get some unwelcome thoughts of suicide etc. in my head that Justin speaks of so eloquently in one of his YouTube videos.
-
Kaitlin 12/07/2010 11:11:00 PM
You are a sick sick man! Asking someone to prove that they are ill, and then trashing their amazing and beautiful songs! I have taken their songs to heart so many times. He is not fake to me. He is real. How dare you say that about him! He will never pretend to be ill, what sick person would fake a mental illness? Tell me! Who would do that! I can relate to almost all of their songs. What are you saying about the people who listen to his music?!?! I am so happy that Justin had the guts to go on that stage and say that about you. I wish I was there to cheer along with the fans. You are just a sick man trying to ruin my favorite band. WHAT A SICK MAN YOU ARE!
-
number9cloud 11/03/2010 10:36:00 PM
I have a couple of things to add. First of all, I don't think pill bottles would prove anything either way, so asking to see them just comes across as coarse and rude (and obviously also alienates readers). If you go to a psychiatrist and describe the symptoms of bipolar disorder, the psychiatrist is going to take your word for it and prescribe you medication. There is no lab test that a doctor can run to confirm the diagnosis, and unlike something like ADHD, there is no reason to want a prescription for the drugs that treat bipolar unless you actually have it (versus Adderall or Ritalin for ADHD, where those drugs have street value). Whether or not Furstenfeld actually has bipolar disorder, he clearly describes the symptoms well and would have no trouble getting a prescription. The only real "proof" of a diagnosis you could get in my opinion is a doctor's or hospital's records, which (fortunately) are off limits due to HIPAA.
Secondly, I don't think it really matters whether Furstenfeld has a mental illness or not. I personally don't think there is any reason to doubt him based on this article - as previously mentioned, bipolar manifests after puberty so anecdotes from middle school are totally irrelevant, and the author doesn't give any other reasons besides the fact that Justin is dramatic and has multiple stories for how Blue October got its name. As is apparent from the comments on this board, fans don't listen to Blue October because they think Furstenfeld has a mental illness. They listen because he UNDERSTANDS mental illness very well, and expresses it in his lyrics in a way that makes them feel less alone. So, I wouldn't at all say that he has built a career based on the assertion that he is mentally ill. His career has been built on the fact that people who struggle with mental illness, either personally or through friends and family, connect with his music.
Finally, the tone of this article is totally off-putting. If the author wants to be taken seriously, he needs to be seen as objective, and he definitely comes across as having some sort of vendetta against Furstenfeld. For example, quoting that huge chunk of the other critic ripping apart Blue October was completely gratuitous. Somehow - based on that critic's choice of language - I don't think he is a prominent and respected figure in the world of music reviewers. Also, using Furstenfeld's tirade against him at the concert as the centerpiece of the article struck me as juvenile. Whether or not the author has a case, I think the spiteful tone of the article negates anything legitimate he might have to say. But obviously, the tone of the article got a huge response, and that's what sells papers, so I doubt that he'll be changing his approach anytime soon.
-
Brown MD 11/03/2010 6:54:00 AM
Bipolar disorder rarely manifests before adulthood. Providing anecdotes from middle and high school doesn't build your case. There is still a lot we don't know about the condition, including its causes, but there is a genetic predisposition which seems like it would negate the "perfect family" argument - bipolar isn't triggered by abuse or trauma - it is going to manifest regardless. In terms of family history, because something has a genetic association does not mean that you will see it in immediate family members, or any family members at all for that matter. I agree that Mr. Lomax writes as if he has a vendetta against the lead singer, and he should do some minimal research into the disorder to find legitimate medical facts before he tries to discredit the "faker".
-
Bethany 10/28/2010 11:07:00 PM
I suffer from Rapid Cycling Bipolar disorder took me many years to find the right diagnosis and to understand what was going on in fact this past year alone I have finally really learned about myself.The older you get the worse the disorder can get and sometimes it just goes away.When I was still sick my mood would change in seconds up down all around it was very very painful for me and my family and only my Husband saw me like this and my Daughter.Never my mom or dad. As the years went on my wonderful docter who saved my life also added on other Diagnosis why because we learned more and more about what was going on in my head my disorders go hand in hand they are Generalized anxiety disorder,Panic attacks,OCD and Schizoaffective disorder which is commen when you have Bipolar disorder. It is hell and I can relate to all of Justians up and downs and the truth that doesnt add up my words and promises and the way I saw life was distorted and after awhile my words meant nothing to the people around me.I would black out and say horrible things but never remember them it was hell!!!!!
sorry for my bad spelling or grammer my new medicine Trileptal messes with my memory on how to spell things and stuff but that is a small price to pay......
-
Sarah 10/13/2010 4:37:00 AM
First off let's start with A. You are nothing more than a reporter....Medical information does not need to be disclosed to you at any time regardless of what you are going to be "Rambling" about. If you are to ask a doctor, therapist even a nurse for that matter they would indeed tell you to reference HIPAA(medication falls under HIPAA as well, just so you know). B. I am a gracious fan of Blue October. I, like any other human being living in this world, have encountered hardships and heart break. But as far as being a fan of Blue October, this goes beyond the suicidal lyrics and ill demeanor. I myself listen because I enjoy their music,not because it's the sound track to my life. And I truly would like to know what a "Blue Meanie" is, cause in the years I've been a fan, I have yet to come into contact with one. Anyways, Yes I understand he is an advocate for suicidal teens, and that is something he should be very proud of, "Dramatic" or not. Do you try to tear apart Cancer Advocates, or AIDS Advocates as much as you try to Mr. Furstenfeld? And using his mental break downs and suicide attempts to manipulate his character into a "Poor Me" stature is really ignorant. I truly hope you don't mock cancer patients this way. His accounts of his illness are his business and he has every right to write, sing, or express it as he pleases. What right do you have trying to rip him apart? The pathetic thing about your article is that you reference this "Rachael" character who was friend with this man in middle school. Are you truly the same person you were at the age of 14? So to even use this persons account of him is outrageous! This man is purely an artist, and he is worshiped for that, regardless if you find his music "Creepy". He is an amazing artist and has a gift. I will pray that you one day find yours because writing for the Houston Press is not it. Your evidence is misleading and not entirely true. Your opinion is biased and beyond ignorant.
-
spydrwebb 09/26/2010 4:44:00 PM
whether or not the recollection of one man's life experiences are infallible and historically accurate is immaterial. the human race is broken and imperfect. none of us are without fault, period. we're all entitled to our opinions and so it is mine, mr. lomax, that you have grossly underestimated the irony of spinning this web. while you've made every effort here to publicly defame one individual, the groundswell resulting from such erroneous claims will only serve to add new lifescapes into the very artist you hoped to vilify. while i might also borrow this space to condemn you for perpetuating the very stigma associated with mental health disorders trained professionals have been working hard to abolish, i digress and reserve such judgment. instead, i'd like to call attention to the birth that you've made possible because undoubtedly any emotions you've invoked in the artist will in due time be communicated through the medium many of us have come to appreciate - blue october.
-
Kristin 09/24/2010 5:32:00 AM
For a reporter, this article is full of research mistakes. The suspicion and accusations are really ridiculous. Hate me was about an ex girlfriend. He went to a different mental hospital than the one he worked at. People with mental illness like bi-polar can go from one extreme of feeling suicidal and very deep and sad to feeling as if they might not even be that ill. That might be the reason for the changes in stories or the changing of personality over the years. Actors can have mood disorders too. It is ignorant to think not. People can change after high school dut to drug use, life experience, etc. Sometimes we hide things in our school years too. Not everyone looks like they might be suicidal or sad. And he was an actor, right? I think what is important is that he talks about it and helps people. Obviously he has some mental issues, no matter how severe they really are. Who cares?
-
Oscar 09/14/2010 7:28:00 PM
"His mental illness is inextricable from his career; if it's a lie, then his career is a lie. And that's news."
-
Emma Mayberry 09/08/2010 6:58:00 AM
The funny thing is, you practically say that to have credibility Justin must show you his pills. But, how can we trust you're credibility? Ive never heard of fucking Blue Meanies and I've been a fan for YEARS. But whatever man, it doesnt matter what the fuck you say. You've dug one veeery deep whole for yourself now. Your screwed.
-
ramon 08/27/2010 10:09:00 AM
i was searchin games, lookin up sites and stuff, whatever popped into my mind and at some point i searched blue october in images and eventualy got to a link here from a picture Anyway its pretty damn obvious the people that think hes overreacting and say he should just show proof to " get it over with " would think hes lying but i just DONT think he has to PROVE ANYTHING to ANYONE. justins obviously takin meds and he even said which ones too, how come the lomax dude couldnt just stop the whole PROVE IT thing there . well both justin and lomax's sides LOOK "silly" yupyup i dont think it was the proper way to talk it out and handle things but in a sick way i woulda done it the same way justin did.. why? cuz its not a "fun" subject and it fuckin hurts talkin about it
-
Dee Ireland 08/16/2010 3:05:00 PM
Being from New York, I had never heard of John Nova Lomax. I read a letter to the editor prepared by Blue Octobers camp (which was a lovely, eloquent, well written piece) and then read what Lomax wrote. What a little bitch! I think its obvious you have it out for Justin (jealousy? inferiority complex? could be any number of things) yet you continue to try to interview him. Um...that sounds sort of stupid. BO fans would read your article (or is it a music critique?) because we read everything about Blue October and your fans read your shit because they know that while you don't actually write anything resembling investigative journalism, they enjoy your attempts at shredding Justin. Tsk Tsk. You could wipe your ass with what you write. Seriously.
Now, as far as you, John Lomax, asking Justin for proof in the form of pill bottles, and getting an expose from kids he went to Junior High with, thats just fucking nuts. As a teen you learn to put your game face on, and try to fit in, so anything those shitheads had to say is 1. 20 years old, 2. Tainted by jealousy, 3. Probably made up by You. And you don't get to see anything of Justin's just because you think its the smoking gun that'll finally get you the recognition you so richly deserve. All you did was give your rabid fans something to drool over, Blue October fans a reason to step up in Justins defense, and piss off a whole lot of people who deal with mental illness (ME!), suicide and/or attempts (ME!), people who've lost loved ones, and people trying to call attention to this cause. Nice fucking job dipshit. And just so we are clear, I like my entertainers (and that would include not only Justin, but Matt, Ryan, Jeremy & C.B. -who you don't mention) dramatic and intense and what's the word....entertaining.
-
Dee Ireland 08/14/2010 2:16:00 AM
I think Lomax should be ashamed of himself. Sour Grapes buddy.
-
AP Haller 07/20/2010 2:44:00 AM
Thanks Dana!
-
Dana 07/18/2010 10:54:00 AM
This may be a duplicate post. I apologize
Thank you for your professional opinion, AP Haller.
I hope the editor tare you seriously. You have many valid points. Thank you.
-
Dana 07/18/2010 10:22:00 AM
RE: AP Haller. It is great reading a professional writer's opinion on an "article" like this one. I hope the Editor takes it seriously. You have so many valid points. Thank you.
-
AP Haller 07/12/2010 5:06:00 AM
I have also submitted the following comments in a letter to the editor. Subject: Reporter Asks Lomax to Quit Singing the Blues.
I am prompted to respond to the June 3rd Lomax article ‘Little Boy Blue.’ Although I like Blue October, it is my experience as a professional reporter that serves as the catalyst to my complaint.
Let me be clear, I do not condone Furstenfeld’s behavior at the concert. His anger does not give him permission to respond in that manner. I am not defending his poor conduct.
With that being said, I take issue with Lomax’s moral code as a reporter. I do not believe using the Houston Paper as his own personal forum to air his dirty laundry is ethically responsible. Newspaper subscribers have certain expectations from such a resource. In theory, a reporter is expected to provide readers with factual information without bias. Lomax failed readers when he incorporated his spin versus responsible fact finding.
As journalists, it is our duty to park our opinions at the door. With that being said, editorially speaking, a responsible reporter does not publish speculative hearsay as an implication of fact. Recollections and changes of someone’s perception (such as ‘Rachel’s’) does not constitute a truth. Furthermore, how does one responsibly connect a sham fundraising effort for breast implants to Furstenfeld? Clearly, there is no relationship between the two. That is like saying, “Because one person commits a crime, everyone will.” Additionally, to deduce that Furstenfeld’s drama background substantiates that he is putting on an act, is an assumption, not a confirmed reality.
Let us not forget Marilyn Monroe or Judy Garland. They were actors. Does that mean their turbulent lives were only scripted until they committed suicide? Does a thespian have to kill herself to finally be taken serious?
Lomax was so busy imposing his values that he forgot to report the facts with the same weight. If Lomax had truly given Bipolar disorder its due, he would have explained it in better detail. According to my research (sources cited below) Mood swings, rages, depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation are all textbook symptoms of Furstenfeld’s claimed diagnosis; more importantly, his behavior. To Lomax’s credit, he does note that hallucinations can exist in severe bipolar conditions.
To continue, anxiety attacks can induce blackouts. Also, the onset of loss--or bad news--can lead to a mixture of these symptoms emerging all at once. People cycle: someone can be fully functioning one day, and not the next. If Furstenfeld’s behavior is inconsistent, that could be a good reason as to why.
Finally, individuals with mental health disorders may have a tendency to exaggerate their reality. They put unrealistic (and evolving) spins on their own perceptions: all of which matters when Lomax makes his case. If Furstenfeld exaggerates, it is perhaps a byproduct of the disease. Narcissism can also be a good indicator of a mental health disorder.
Perhaps Furstenfeld’s manic and inferred narcissistic behavior is evidence enough. Who is Lomax to designate a prescription bottle as the Holy Grail of evidence?
Consider this, Lomax refers to Furstenfeld’s upbringing; he paints a portrait of a picture perfect family. Okay, maybe, but nonetheless it is inappropriate to conclude that a Stepford home is proof of a stable mental health environment. Case in point, a condition called Borderline Personality Disorder would contradict such a conclusion. Many individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder want everyone to think their life is perfect, when in reality it is not. Nonetheless, everything looks perfect from the outside looking in. (I am not inferring this does--or does not--exist in Furstenfeld’s family, I am simply providing information that deflates Lomax’s point.)
Lomax infers that Furstenfeld exploits mental health problems to benefit the bottom line. In theory, one could say the same is possible of Lomax. Perhaps he exploited Blue October--and mental health issues--in attempt to sell newspapers and unethically settle a personal vendetta? Case in point, based on Blue October’s website, the Houston shows are sold out, as well as Dallas. Houston, after all, is the band’s hometown. Simply put, it is a favorable market for pushing print about Furstenfeld.
Lomax missed his calling: he should have worked in Public Relations instead. He is brilliant with a spin. However, his attempt to throw Furstenfeld under the bus may have backfired. Why? People are reading about Blue October. Subject matter aside, the band is still gaining attention. It seems Lomax forgot a most basic principal being ‘bad publicity is better than no publicity.’ He might have sold papers, but I bet he inadvertently sold albums too.
(Sources: Surviving a Borderline Parent: How to Heal Your Childhood Wounds & Build Trust, Boundaries, and Self-Esteem; A.D.D. and Romance; Mind Over Mood; The Bipolar Depression Guide, What You and Your Family Need to Know; The Enigma of Suicide.)
-
Myra 06/30/2010 2:34:00 AM
This article is bullshit. First of all, Hate Me isn't about his mother. Yes, that's the story the music video tells, but, as he has stated in numerous interviews, it's about an ex girlfriend. This just proves what a lazy fucking reporter you are if you don't even reasearch one damn song before you bash it. And as for all you wrote about Justin being a seemingly normal and happy kid in high school...so fucking what??? I have suffered from extreme depression for the past 6 years and my own mother, who raised me single handedly since I was born, and who I lived with until just a year and a half ago, didn't have a clue about it until 2 months ago when she went with me to this exact concert in Houston that you mention. I hid it from her because I knew she would freak out about it and that would just make me feel worse. Most of the time, when a teenager commits suicide, there are a lot of classmates saying they never saw it coming...that the kid seemed normal and happy. So it doesn't mean shit that Justin was popular in school and seemed happy. Most people I know with depression or similar mental illness, myself included, tend to bottle up their emotions until it gets to be too much and they end up hurting themselves or, with any luck, manage to get help before they hurt themselves. Also, it doesn't matter what kind of home life someone has. So what if he had rich parents who are happily married? Mental illness isn't caused by divorce or alcoholic parents. It's caused by chemical imbalences in the brain, dick. I had a wonderful childhood and an increadibly loving mother...there are no obvious reasons for me to be depressed, and yet it is a daily struggle for me to summon up the strength and willpower to just get out of bed in the morning. I happen to believe that you, John Lomax, are full of shit and you're just pissed off that Justin called you out so instead of doing your job and writing an unbiased article as reporters are supposed to do, you're making it personal. You're just an immature little boy who can spout all the criticism you want but can't handle it when someone criticizes you. Anyway, like many other people have said in previous comments, who gives a shit if he is faking it? (Which I doubt.) He is HELPING PEOPLE. Why the fuck do you have to piss all over that and accuse him of being a fraud? You, John Lomax, and anyone else who buys into your bullshit has obviously never dealt with mental illness. When you have to constantly try to remind and convince yourself that life it worth living, you need whatever help you can get. So I don't give a shit if Justin is faking or not. His MUSIC helps me...when I listen to it I feel it in my gut, and I can relate to it, and it gives me hope and strength. So fuck you for trying to belittle that. Fuck. You.
-
Anse 06/26/2010 1:54:00 PM
If the music didn't suck so bad, none of this would matter.
-
Anna 06/19/2010 11:46:00 PM
After reading some of the previous comments, all I can say is "Wow!." You have some hateful followers, John! The previous negative comments are proof of the stigma that surrounds mental illness in this society (the stigma that you are keeping alive and well through your feeble attempt to get back at Justin, by writing this article). Said article can only be described as lazy reporting.
I can tell you with complete certainty that it was not the question that you asked that caused the uproar. It was the fact that your intentions (to focus the entire interview on Justin and what medications he was or wasn't taking)were made perfectly clear through the question that you asked and they did not match what his intentions (to promote awareness about mental illnes and suicide)were for the interview. As quoted in your article,Justin specifically told you, "If you want to talk about mental illness and saving people's lives, then I don't have a problem with you." You see...you seemed to have missed the point! There are 82 Americans that will commit suicide today, 14 of these will be children, and you can honestly say that (when given the opportunity) you did absolutely nothing about it. It is extremely apparent that you have never lost someone you loved to suicide and you really do not care. Instead of using your article to reach out to those people, to help promote awareness about mental illness and suicide, and to educate the public...you chose to take the "low road" and focus on one member of the band. I'm glad they turned you down for the interview. It means that they have something that you don't - INTEGRITY.
With that being said...I'd like to set the record straight about a few things in your misguided attempt to write an informative article.
1. Anxiety Attacks (sometimes called 'panic attacks') are very real and even common. To claim that you could find nothing about them on the internet is beyond ignorant and goes into the realm of dishonesty....which leads me to wonder, how much of the rest of your article is not just ignorant, but dishonest?
2. Justin was admitted to a mental hospital in the 90s and at the time, he was working in another mental hospital with youth. The entire story (how, when, why and where) can be found online, however somehow, with your "master investigative skills", you were unable to locate it.
3. Justin was in Omaha, in October, right before the anxiety attack. And, for your information, he did "look" sick. His color was off and he was extremely distracted and withdrawn; he just looked like something was wrong. In April, after the anxiety attack, he was back to his normal, playful self; he looked healthy and happy (smiling and having fun).
4. To even imply that being beautiful, popular, or athletic means that you don't have problems, is absurd and ignorant.
5. Blue October fans do not call THEMSELVES 'Blue Meanies.' That was a comment that was blown way out of proportion and the media refers to them as 'Blue Meanies.'
6. It is a running joke among Blue October fans that the band is constantly changing the origin of the band name, when interviewing with lazy reporters, such as yourself. If you're not going to do the research, so that you are able to 'call' them on it, right then and there, then good for them. We look forward to each new version of the story. The truth is we don't really care how the name came about; we are just thankful that it did!
7.About your alleged 'friends' of Justin...Did you ask them to prove it? With friends like that, who needs enemies? You print their gossip, as if it were fact.
8.The stories/inspirations behind most of Blue October songs can also be found online, but again with all of your investigation skills, you were also unable to find these.
The truth is...we love the band name, no matter how it came to be; we love the band, with all of its personalities; we love Justin, no matter what medications he is or isn't taking...but mostly we love the music. We love how it touches our daily lives and our souls, whether it's helping us cope with a tragedy, helping us express feelings of love for someone special, or just letting us vent. Blue October has saved lives! How many lives have you saved, John?
While I don't understand how you have kept your job with such irresponsible reporting, I'm tired of you trashing my favorite band to line your wallet. You talk about being selfish and manipulative, but you should really look in the mirror. Are things really that bad that you have to rely on this publicity stunt controversey to sell papers?
So love them or leave them alone...nevermind...a shallow, ignorant, arrogant person, such as yourself, will N-E-V-E-R understand Blue October...so PLEASE, just give us all a break and STOP TRYING!!! PROVE THAT YOU CAN SELL PAPERS WITHOUT THEM!!!
Sincerely,
Anna
-
Maegan 06/18/2010 4:46:00 PM
WWW.PRETTYRIOT.COM
Another point of view.
-
debka27 06/18/2010 7:03:00 AM
I am shocked by some of the comments on this board. Who are you guys to judge Justin on his mental illness,the way he makes his living, and him being a parent?
Mr. Lomax your story was weak and juvenile to say the least. I would be embarrassed if I were you. You were very one sided and it clearly seems that you have a vendetta against Justin. For what reason, who knows. Are you the same person you were in high school? No. So your "sources" don't mean a thing especially since you won't release their names. I'm sure Justin kept his illness close to his chest in high school. Being a teen, the last thing you want is to ridiculed by other teens when you are having to deal with something, especially mental illness. I'm sure his family was very private about what they were going through with him when he was growing up. I had no clue about the hell some people in my high school were going through until we grew up.Trying to have someone breakdown Justins medicines was beyond ridiculous. This may be a shocker but there are different levels of mental illness. These people are put on their own specific mixtures on what works best for them. If you did a little research you would know.
Rantee-Your little tirade on here was disgusting to say the least. I could verbally rip you apart right now but I will restrain myself. Just think before you decide to ramble like an idiot.
Lisa- I somewhat understand what you are trying to say about kids adding stress to a situation no matter what illness someone has. But you did attack mentally ill people and grouped them together saying they kill their kids. I hate to say this but there are plenty of "Normal" people that do the same thing to their kids. So I wouldn't be playing God here by saying who should or should't procreate. Unless you are God and he changed his name to Lisa. If thats the case then, my bad.
To those who are attacking the band on how they make a living you are either stupid or haters. Maybe both. Touring is how they make a living. Everbody needs a job to make money and yes this is theirs. Accusing Justin though of faking mental illness for profit and fame is stupid. He didn't seem so willing to completely open up about the severity of his illness in interviews until this past year. Especially after his breakdown last October. Jeremy and Justin did a really good interview in Germany this past April and if thats fake than I guessed I was fooled. It seems genuine to me.Go to Youtube and see for yourself. Put in the search for frnd.tv to see the two part interview.As far as the beer comments go. All concerts have beer So Justin and Blue October are not the posterchild for the brewing companies.
Well keep on spewing the love here people and if you would like to see another side, there is a great article that was written as a rebuttal to Mr. Lomaxs story at prettyriot.com
-
Alan 06/18/2010 2:02:00 AM
Ok, Justin is a bit melodramatic. But I know people who know him, and he really does have a terrible time staying stable. Also, I wouldn't blame anyone with an illness for getting upset if you asked them to prove it. I can understand in some cases it might be necessary to check your facts, but people do get upset if you ask them to prove you have cancer. It's even harder to "prove" you suffer from depression, or alcoholism for instance. What is clear is you, Mr. "Journalist," have just used your pulpit to seemingly explain to your schoolmates why the person who dissed you is wrong and you're right. Your article reads like a high school Facebook page. No wonder newspapers are dead. So silly and stupid. And I really don't care for Blue October, I just find your article tasteless and childish. Oh well, have fun doing whatever it is you do, but you may want to brush up on the tenets of journalism, if they even exist anymore.
-
JT 06/17/2010 6:40:00 AM
lmao at the guy who wrote this for putting his reputation on such an article… hehehehe… seriously if i were lomax i would beg my paper to take this down. In houston lomax may have a lot of fans and people that know him and think this is awesome journalism but to the rest of the world who do not know him he kind of looks like a strange strange little man with a weird obsession... I cannot even believe this would have been printed in a newspaper, maybe the enquirer but a "news" paper... sooo funny...
I can imagine lomax sitting going over his resources...lets see a friend of a friend saw him be overdramatic at a concert...and then there is that guy who said he was good at basketball in junior high of course the girl who said he was happy in school....he had a girlfriend who was hot...wow breaking news-- those are all such solid solid resources...sounds like a lot of highs school crap...oh wait... it was high school crap ----15 YEARS AGO... I hope your other articles are not as hysterically put together as this one... there are facts and opinions... gossip from high school is not usually considered a fact, especially from 15 years ago... Thank you Mr Lomax for your comedic attempt at journalism... you may want to check out the national enquirer for your next job...
-
Catherine 06/17/2010 2:13:00 AM
Everyone needs to leave Justin alone. He's been through more than most people can even begin to imagine and has the courage to be able to speak about it, instead of hiding like he's ashamed. This article is disgusting and I have two words for John Lomax - you suck!
-
Lisa 06/17/2010 12:56:00 AM
April Dawn, I would say that putting his family through hell and then using their recorded messages that illustrate the hell he puts them through on the albums is exploitation. Especially since he's been doing it for over a decade. AS made some excellent points.
-
AprilDawn 06/17/2010 12:12:00 AM
To AS: By definition, exploit means to make use of selfishly or unethically or to take advantage of a person/situation unjustly for one’s own ends. What has Mr. Furstenfeld done to deserve an exploitation label? He has not gained fans or funds simply by promoting awareness of suicide in our society and its relative importance. Exploit and its synonyms hold negative implications. I honestly don’t see how he has personally gained from stepping up and bringing awareness to a cause that he himself understands very well. I personally don’t assume Mr. Lomax has never had insight of mental illness. To the contrary, I happen to think he absolutely does and from which his indefatigable interest has stemmed. That, however, is not of consequence. You questioned how much Blue October actually helps these causes besides publicity. I can’t comment on the depth to which they ameliorate, but I can say that the awareness alone has caused a decent flow of collaborative efforts. One story in particular that is relatively close to me goes a little something like this… He had a brother. His brother committed suicide on Christmas that year, which would make it tragically unforgettable for the rest of his life. He felt guilty that he couldn’t save his brother. Mr. Furstenfeld labels a gig “Minute and a Half Confessions” integrating fans in sharing their personal cataclysms. He gets up on the stage and tells of his brother, the suicide and his guilt… and this epic moment in his life started a course of healthier emotional processing. Now ten years later, Blue October has pledged their tour, “Pick Up The Phone”, to suicide awareness and assistance efforts. This simple man I know of great integrity made use of the PUTP tour resources by signing up with IMAlive.org and training to become certified in crisis intervention and suicide prevention. I can’t speak for the whole of us, but for me, this one story alone avows the benefits of Mr. Furstenfeld’s connection. Rock on, Blue October. I am a proud fan.
-
Lisa 06/16/2010 11:50:00 PM
Darcy M. you need to learn to read. I specifically said "self-medicating (drug addicted)". Class what does that mean? That means people addicted to illegal drugs and alcohol which is common among mentally ill people and one of the things that stops a lot of them from moving towards wellness in spite of the fact that they think it helps them cope. If this doesn't apply to you Darcy then congratulations on avoiding a common pitfall and guess what, I'm not talking about you so I don't need your life story. Actually I could do without it in any respect. And where did I say anyone shouldn't be able to have children? I didn't. In fact, I pointed out that nobody can keep this one guy in particular from seeing his kid until it is legally proved he is unfit. What I said was there are people who should not be having kids and mentally ill people are one of those groups. Mental illness is often compared to cancer right? People undergoing chemo probably shouldn't be procreating either. Not because I hate them, but because they should be focusing on getting well and having children would only threaten their health further as well as harm the child. Same thing. Now, anyone else with delusions of persecution have something to say?
-
Darcy M. 06/16/2010 9:27:00 PM
Lisa,the comment you just left actually just made me physically ill. I have never seen such blatant discrimination against the mentally ill such as what you wrote! Shame on you! Justin is NOT addicted to his meds. He's NOT exploiting his mental illness. He's drawing off the emotions and experiences of what he went through because of his mental illness to express himself and to help others, as well as help himself. You are such a negative person. I have ADHD, a mental illness. You're saying I shouldn't be able to have children because I could potentially end up killing them, and that I would not be fit to take care of my own children. I am appalled at you. Justin loves his daughter with all of his heart and has done so much for her. He's written songs for her and been the best father he could be. Sure, there are some parents out there with some mental image or another who can't take care of their child because of it. It happens! But saying any mentally ill person shouldn't be a parent and is a potential disaster... How dare you.
-
Lisa 06/16/2010 5:05:00 PM
Amy, read my comment again and after thinking critically how about you decide if that is what I was saying. Wow. The self-medicating (drug addicted) codependent mentally ill sadly are the ones who get the press, mostly because they are the most needy, that's what I'm saying. And furthermore as a rule those are the assholes who use their disease to get attention and as a result will never get better, but make life hell for everyone around them. People who capitalize off their mental illness are as a rule the worst possible role models for the mentally ill because the last thing you should want is to be defined by your illness or else it will be impossible to get free of, emotionally as well as psychologically. And as far as the comment about not letting the guy see his kid goes, that's not legal until there is evidence to support his not being a fit parent. But I am continuously amazed at mentally ill people who procreate and the people who procreate with them. Caring for children is hard enough for mentally stable people. Children cause mental illness in previously mentally stable parents. There are a lot of kinds of people who should not be having kids, and the mentally ill are just one group, but an important group considering they are the ones who wind up killing their kids.
-
Sadie 06/15/2010 5:51:00 PM
How naive to think that mental illness is something so generic to be proven by prescription bottles. This is blatant ignorance at it's best. So by seeing his RX's you would be able to legitamately diagnose that he indeed was impaired by some sort of mental disorder? If this is so, then we would need to see proof of your medical training that would equip you to make such a determination. You continuously hound Justin to see these prescriptions...Is that ignorance or arrogance? Have you any idea how his family has suffered over the years? Can you imagine the horror and illness that each one has endured while loving him through this? They do endure, though. You don't have to believe his claims but end of the day..who gives a damn anyway? The fact that he uses his celebrity and continues to raise awareness on a topic that has been pushed to the back of the bus again and again is admirable and appreciated.
-
Hilarity Ahoy! 06/15/2010 9:26:00 AM
I came for the comments..
I was not disappointed.
You people are the best!
-
Jennifer Palazzini 06/15/2010 5:04:00 AM
Why? Did you really use your mad investigative reporting skills to track down people he went to Jr. High with? Were any of us cool, with life all figured out, in Jr. High or even High School for that matter? Myself, being the same age as Justin, I shudder to think what my fellow classmates would say about me from that time in my life. I guess my seemingly negligent High School guidance counselor at that time was right…The crap you do in High School will eventually come back around and bite you in the ass…who knew?
I am a little mystified as to why you felt the need to “blow the doors” off of this. What is there to gain from this? If this is, as you imply an ever so craftily devised lie, what would be the benefit? I don’t buy Blue October’s albums or go to their shows because Justin has a mental illness. Not to take anything away from the importance of speaking out about these issues but, as a fan, I will go to their shows whether their latest tour is to promote awareness for suicide prevention or not. Is Justin lying that he has breast cancer in order to get sympathetic strangers to pay for revengeful implants? Hardly. I find that comparison you made quite disturbing. So, therefore by your standards, a woman needs to pass out photos of her mastectomy scars or hand over her prescription bottles of approved breast cancer fighting medications, from her battle in order to wear pink and bring awareness to the disease. A few years ago a cousin of mine committed suicide. This woman was someone I admired greatly and loved. From my perspective she had a seemingly perfect life. A handsome and loving husband, two beautiful children, a dream home in the Rocky Mountains. At every family gathering she was witty, charming and affectionate. Needless to say, I was and still am devastated by her loss. I have no idea what went on day after day inside her home, let alone inside her head. After her funeral it was brought to my attention by her mother that she had struggled with Bi-polar disorder for most of her life. As a close and loving family member I was clueless of her struggles. I feel that your quoting and using the observations of Jr. High and High School classmates and acquaintances who were nothing more than children themselves 20 years ago, is in poor taste and unprofessional.
Okay, so I get it. You don’t like Blue October. It’s alright, nobody is forcing you to like them. Move on man! Me and my fellow “Blue Meanies” are not going to miss you. I utterly hate the Rolling Stones and I still find a way to make it through my day.
-
T 06/14/2010 8:13:00 PM
I'm trying to understand why you care so much? Please enlighten me. Someone told you off at their show because they didn't like what you've written in the past and were pissed at your very personal question to show their medications. Isn't this par for the course when you are in the 'critics' game. What's the agenda and don't you have better things to be doing then tracking down someone's childhood history. Aren't there some more interesting things going on related to actual music you should be writing about. It is very telling that your article is as long as it is - it is very personal and because of that you have lost any shred of credibility you ever had. I find it hard to believe a critic could get so rattled by someone reacting back at what they've written - can dish but can't take it???
Your presumptions on signs of mental illness are beyond insulting. I think your tunnel vision for exposing your arch enemy clouded your judgement big time and you should be truly embarrassed as a journalist. For you to imply a person who came from a normal family, was in a popular crowd at school makes it doubtful they had a mental illness it just disgusting - talk about making blanket statements with no actual evidence. I have a brother who is bi-polar. We are an extremely happy and stable family - he was the star athlete at high school and very much part of the in-crowd. Anyone who looked from the outside in at our family would have thought everything was fantastic. Little did they know and frankly it was none of their business. If you were to talk to any of the people who went to school with him, aside from his close friends they would be floored to hear this was the case. I'm disgusted you had the nerve to make such an assumption, but I guess it helped you justify the story, facts be damned.
So what if the guy writes music about his illness, it is what he knows and how he channels it - what is the harm being done? He is exploiting it, really are you that desperate to knock the guy? If you don't like the music you don't have to listen to it or go to the concerts and you can continue to do reviews which state this. However, people aren't buying the albums and paying to see them live because the lead singer is mentally ill, no they are going because they actually are talented muscians who have created some great songs. I would hazard a guess the vast majority of the 1 million people who purchased their album had no clue the lead singer may be suffering a mental illness. Music is subjective, you can not like it but you can't deny the talent. Very shoddy piece and actually very Perez Hilton like - tabloid trash - are you also going to put up a video crying about how you were verbally attacked when you make a living out of criticizing others yourself? Hypocrite is the word coming to my mind.
-
Rob O 06/14/2010 4:47:00 PM
Lomax, your alleged article is shameful. It is disengenuious, poorly researched, and obviously vindictive. You attempted to do nothing more than disparage someone you don't like, and with whom you've had sophomoric spat. You accuse Justin of lying about being a patient in a mental-health hospital by citing the implication that it was at the San Marcos facility where Justin once worked, but you knew very well that Justin said he was admitted to Laurel Ridge in San Antonio. I've followed the band for a few years now, and Justin has never wavered in this story, ever. For Christ's sake, you admitted this on page 5: "After the alleged breakdown and a short stay in Hennepin County Medical Center, Furstenfeld has said that he eventually wound up in Laurel Ridge, the same San Antonio-area mental hospital where he says he was admitted as a patient in the 1990s."
And really, citing anonymous sources who allegedly knew him in middle and high school. Are you the same person you were then? That is the flimsiest "evidence" I've ever seen printed. Who on earth is your editor. They, along with you, should be fired.
-
Darcy M. 06/14/2010 3:31:00 AM
Mr. Lomax,
I confess I am a big Blue October fan. I also confess I studied journalism my first quarter of college. There are many guidelines of journalism that you are breaking. The biggest being that of keeping the news comprehensive and IN PROPORTION. You clearly are one sided, biased, and have some sort of vendetta against Justin. You NEVER site your sources in a proper manner, evidence of their involvement is sketchy and questionable, and your article is most definitely unfair and disproportional. You make VERY little effort to make this article fair and proportional. Justin may or may not have bi-polar disorder (personally, I believe he does because I studied psychology and disorders this past year in college and he displays all the symptoms of the illness), but the main thing is that Justin, and the entire band, are doing things to raise awareness of mental disorders, as well as suicide. They're making a difference in the community and are helping many people with coping with their problems. His lyrics have saved lives. I have ADHD, a mental disorder. If someone were to say to me "Prove to me you've got ADHD- show me your meds," I would say "Fuck you, that's personal. You have no right." Asking a mentally ill person to prove their illness by providing their meds is like asking a person with liver cancer to prove it by showing their liver. It's a slap in the face. Shame on you, Mr. Lomax. Look at the positive of what this band and it's singer are doing, instead of reporting on your own petty opinions.
-
A S 06/14/2010 3:30:00 AM
This, boys and girls, is the difference between Mr. Lomax and Mr. Furstenfeld.
Many of you people that are responding are outraged saying, "If only you know someone who was mentally ill!" or "If you knew what it was like..."
I have but one question to you who are casting stones - How do YOU know he hasn't? Why don't you ask him about his history and about his medications, if he has any?
Unless you know Mr. Lomax personally, none of you know what his mental capacity is or what he has experienced.
IF Justin is telling the truth, which by the article above is highly likely he's not lying about being bi-polar, then he is exploiting his sickness. Now, if he wants to exploit his sickness, that's fine...just be prepared to provide sufficient proof of such when asked. If he isn't really bi-polar, then he's exploiting a sickness that he may never have experienced.
That! - That is the issue Lomax is trying to point out in his excessive article. That is the difference between Lomax and Furstenfeld...the difference between just about every one of these commentors and Furstenfeld. Ladies and gentlemen, I'd wager that very few of you, if any, actually exploit your mental challenges to further your career or personal life. If you do make money off your mental illness, then I'd believe you are working for a Non-Profit Organization or something very similar.
As I stated before - I enjoy the music of Blue October...and I do not doubt that their music has helped people cope with their problems and issues. That's the beauty of music. However, how much does Blue October actually help these causes, aside from publicity?
-
Michael Roberts 06/13/2010 2:40:00 PM
While it might be appropriate for a journalist to inquire about a subject's medications, it's hardly appropriate for a music critic and it's no surprise you were snubbed. It's only regrettable that Justin responded and gave you grist for the infotainment mill. But what's done is done, and as a longtime acquaintance of the band, I feel compelled to add my two cents.
As a music critic, you don't like Blue October's music. Fair enough, you're entitled. But there was a whiff of sour grapes around your review of Foiled, and this piece positively reeks of it. The world is an unfair place, and maybe Blue October succeeded ahead of other Houston bands you felt were more deserving. Or maybe it's just the frustration that Blue October has sold over a million copies worldwide, while you're stuck as a music critic in Houston. Because while there's plenty of debate about where the music capital of the world is, I think we can all agree that Houston is precisely that point farthest from it. No matter how good you might think a band is, no matter how you talk them up, the reality is that no one on the East or West coasts are going to listen to what they would regard as some hick from America's Fattest City. And that's gotta be a little frustrating for a critic. This is not a knock on Houston musicians, who are as good as any anywhere. Just an acknowledgment of the reality that Houston is not a cultural trendsetter and therefore neither are its critics.
Even overlooking the obvious rancor with which the piece was written, one cannot help but be appalled by the sloppiness and unintended humor afforded by the pseudo-journalistic touches. The anonymized sources in particular: one can imagine these people appearing in silhoutte in a video followup, their voices masked ominously: "Yeah, he was really popular in high school, but I always thought he was kind of a prick." With explosive revelations like that, you should really get those people into a witness protection program before someone gives them a wedgie.
And let's not forget the irony of quoting Mick Jagger in the opening of an article criticizing Justin for feigning an accent. Not only that, but through investigative reporting similar to your own(thanks Google!), I've discovered that Mick Jagger actually studied Economics, not music. The phony.
Finally there is the whole premise of the piece, which is the accusation that Justin has been faking mental illness. For thirteen years. Call me crazy, but that seems a little...crazy.
In the end, I think this piece gave you a chance to tweak someone you dislike and (via the ever-vigilant Blue Meanies) generate page views. And one advantage of being a critic rather than a journalist is that there's no journalistic integrity to lose. So hey, win-win for John Lomax.
-
Trish 06/13/2010 7:12:00 AM
I don't know if you realize how you are coming across. I am a 38 year old mom and have a son who suffers from Tourette's Syndrome..which is often accompanied by anxiety, drepression and a whole other slew of problems. My son suffers every day and always will. My son tics all of the time, his arms jerk, his neck twitches, he blurts out sounds that he cannot control, he has anxiety, ocd and sadness. He is probably someone that you would make fun, snicker or laugh at based on previous writings of yours and your general overall attitude about people with disorders. He has told me that the tics and people staring are not as bad as the thoughts that go on in his head with the ocd and anxiety. I help him as much as i can and pray that my beautiful son does not have to deal with depression as he enters his teenage years. I am so happy that there are people out there willing to put themselves out there and try to make life easier for those who are dealing with these issues too. The pick up the phone tour was an amazing thing to do and one that you don't see done often. It is just so hard to see what happens to people when they do put themselves out there... I mean really what I am seeing is somebody (you) full of hate or jealousy pulling out people from high school, which seriously was what 15 years ago, and bringing up high school crap that really is usually not reliable to prove that this man does not have a mental disorder. AFter reading this really quite high schoolish attempt to discredit someone who has put out something that is hard to deal with in order to help others... Seriously, Shame on you Mr Lomax. I am not sure why you are so upset with Justin Ferstenfield, my first gut would say jealousy of some sort, I don't know.... it is really bizarre this hatred you have towards blue october and I really can't believe all of this. I mean if you don't like their music write a review and move on, but to try to discredit a worthy cause such as the pick up the phone tour.... shame on you.
-
Angelique 06/13/2010 5:20:00 AM
Tell me, Mr. Lomax, have you ever lost a loved one to suicide? If you had lost a sibling, a parent, a friend, a spouse to such an ending I wonder if you would be attacking this band so vehemently. This tour targets mental health awareness, more specifically SUICIDE PREVENTION. Whether you dislike Justin Furstenfeld or not ... whether he lies through his teeth, or not ... whether he gives every dime he makes to this cause ,or not ... I really don't care. This is what I do care about – SAVING LIVES. If one life – one – is saved because an at-risk person attended one of the shows, or someone else listened to the speakers at these shows and realized that someone they loved might be in trouble, that one life is worth more than all the money and success and credibility that any “rock star” could ever amass. Would Justin’s mental illness be more authentic, more tangible for you if he actually hurt himself or someone else? If he killed himself tomorrow, would that make his music somehow more worthy? Mr. Lomax, this band and the organizations involved in the Pick Up the Phone Tour should be commended … not torn apart in the media. Whatever their lead singer may have said or done in the past, this band is attempting to draw attention to a real problem that claims the lives of thousands of people every year, and tears apart the lives of everyone left behind. As one of the people left behind, I can’t find the words to tell you how much I wish my brother would have attended one of these concerts or heard a Blue October album. The message here is hope. We all understand that you dislike this band, that you have very strong opinions about their lead singer. You have made your argument. Please respect the spirit of their fans and the lives that are, right now, this very minute, in jeopardy. Stop drawing attention away from the very real cause at the heart of this tour, and use your prodigious journalistic talent to critique another band. Any more “analysis” of Blue October on your point should be considered overkill.
-
Lauri 06/13/2010 1:33:00 AM
Why are you acting surprised that he would say those things about you? (and he apparently isn't the only one). Guess what, it isn't your business what his diagnosis is, nor anyone else's. Why would he need to prove any-damn-thing to you? Anyone can be an advocate for mental health issues, and he is a great one. As someone who works in the mental health field, I see how uninformed people are about mental illness and what stigma is attached to it. Some people with mental illness are treated like 2nd class citizens, but they are people, just like anyone else. Justin does a great job and reaches out to many people and he will continue to do so. Let's just hope that uninformed a-holes like you don't keep anyone from getting the help they need.
-
Sheila 06/12/2010 8:26:00 PM
JC - You apparently are related, at least mentally, to Low-to-the-Max. The topic isn't even remotely regarding alcohol, but that seems to be all you got out of it.
To evilolive - Don't worry, no attack on you....you stated you "put yourself out there for flame attacks" - we all did just by commenting. Whether or not you enjoy his music, totally your prerogative, and no one should judge you at all for that - you needed to state something and you did - but you did it, and that's what you should be proud of. We all need to stop feeling like we have to take the "abuse" and not speak out in return. I did not have the kindest things to say to Lomax, as I do love the music and Justin - but I still thank you for speaking out about mental illness and its effects on those afflicted. My article may not be published, I don't care, I don't need it to be - I spoke from my heart and it was meant for the author and editor (plus it probably needed too much censoring for them to post). You still have to speak out. Blow off the flame attacks - they are only from people too ignorant to open their minds. At least yours sounded "open".
-
Melissa Kosanovic 06/12/2010 4:51:00 PM
I am deeply saddened to learn about this attack on Justin Furstenfeld & Blue October. Thanks to Mr. Lomax and others like him, the stigma surrounding mental illness & suicide exists. Would he criticize someone with Cancer or any other illness for creating an organization either for awareness or funding research in the area of their illness? Would he have the audacity to ask: "are you sure you are suffering from Cancer? Can I see your meds?" I think not. The logic is absurd! I find it extremely difficult to believe that asking Justin Furstenfeld to prove his mental illness by bringing in a prescription bottle is standard practice.
I strongly believe the Houstin Press should reconsider Mr. Lomax's employment. This is journalism at its worst and that reflects on the paper.
Mr. Lomax, if you don't appreciate Blue October's music and artistry, that is fine. It's not for everybody. However, as a mental health professional I implore you to consider the great awareness Justin Furstenfeld/Blue October has created simply by sharing personal stories. The validity of these stories are moot. A great number of people suffering from mental illness listen to Blue October and they no longer feel alone. Do not attempt to take that away from them.
-
Amy 06/12/2010 5:34:00 AM
Lisa -
So you're saying that Justin should be a good little mental health patient and keep his mouth shut and not show his face, because that's the right thing to do? Nobody wants to deal with someone with problems, so better for them to just stay out of sight....wow.
-
Amy 06/12/2010 5:26:00 AM
Rantee- what a horrible thing to say - "Keep him away from his daughter AT ALL COSTS!!! No child should be around any adult who has all of these mental problems." Shame on you! Mental illness does not equal inability to parent. His daughter deserves to know him, imperfections and all. And from interviews I've seen, from songs he's written about her, it's obvious that he loves the hell out of her and that she makes him feel normal.
I'm so angry at all of the ignorance I'm reading about with this article.
-
Rachael 06/12/2010 12:09:00 AM
I have to say it easy to see you dislike their music, and that is one thing, but if you knew anyone with any mental illness you would retract this. I was the happy go lucky popular kid in school, but when alone I was a completely different person. Justin makes several mentions of "putting a mask on" This is something a lot of people including me that I know with mental issues do. WE have to function in society and not let or illness be seen because then we hear bs about it. Justin is trying to help get awareness out there. Even if for some reason he is lying about it, which I doubt because to be able to speak about things that really only someone going through similar would know, he is getting an important message out there so what does it matter.
-
Peg 06/11/2010 11:16:00 PM
After Carter Albrecht was killed, did you asked Ryann to see his prescription bottle of Chantrix before you publicly declared it to be a contributing cause of his death? Maybe he was just an asshole criminal and not actually suffering from a chemical reaction. Maybe she just wants to get some cash.
-
Peg 06/11/2010 11:11:00 PM
There are a few things that have to be taken into consideration with this article. One is that Lomax really, really hates Blue October. He has made that clear. There is absolutely no objectivity here. The same can be said for all the commenters who say they cannot stand this bands music so therefore, he is faking. One does not equal the other. Just as the fans should not say that since Justin says he is sick, he is sick.
But let's put that aside for a moment. Forget that Justin is a "rock star". If you took this information that you have gathered and presented it to a team of psychiatrists, I would bet my bank account that they would say he is obviously mentally ill. It's ironic that you describe his behaviors in an attempt to disprove that he's sick and when taken as a whole, it makes it very clear that he is, in fact, ill.
You have accused him of being a compulsive liar, narcissistic, having delusions of grandeur, malingering, making up a new psychiatric term that only he has, etc, etc. You are describing someone who is fucked up.
When my brother in law was a teenager, he was accused of being a drama queen. When he was 44, he hung himself. Those years in between, he was miserable and trying desperately to get better. The victims of suicide are the survivors, and I am really, really pissed that you could not see what was right in front of your eyes, but instead used your own personal bias to disparage someone who, despite what you want, is mentally ill.
-
Kristie Smith 06/11/2010 10:36:00 PM
I wrote an open letter to the editors and staff of the Houston Press. The link to it (because I am sure they would rather save their integrity than to publish it) it: http://www.facebook.com/note.php?created&&suggest¬e_id=399130016034#!/note.php?note_id=399130016034
Please feel free to leave comments or meessage with with any questions or corrections if need be. Thank you...You may also spread it around if you like.
-
CuriousMe 06/11/2010 10:10:00 PM
I can't help but wonder if those who are so quick to claim Justin is faking his mental illness have ever dealt with mental illness themselves. Have any of you personally dealt with depression, anxiety or being bipolar? I'm guessing the answer is no. Perhaps you shouldn't be so quick to judge & point fingers at someone you don't personally know.
-
Karen 06/11/2010 9:55:00 PM
comment copied from facebook post discussion regarding the original April article by Lomax:
More irresponsible journalism, exactly the type if thing that keeps mental health issues in the dark ages of public perception, stereotypes and misinformation are a large reason people in need of support fail to seek and/or find it. It is comparable to the way rape victims used to be made to feel they brought it on themselves. We need to shine a light on all the dark corners of our world. I applaud Justin for his courage by being open to this type of scrutiny. He is doing many people a great service. Lomax is just one individual in need of education on the subject, let his article be the impetus to stir the conversation.
-
Reese 06/11/2010 8:59:00 PM
Dear Ms. Downing,
I read the column written by reporter John Lomax on Justin Furstenfeld and wish to express my concern and request for retraction and clarification to set the record straight.
Lomax wrote that Justin claimed during our press conference on April 12th, 2010 that he suffers from schizophrenia, then went on to impugn our tours credibility as a fund raiser, and lastly questioned if Justin as a spokesperson for our organization and our mission actually had a mental illness.
In addition to being the founder of 1-800-SUICIDE, the Kristin Brooks Hope Center and the Pick Up the Phone Tour, I was the organizer of and a speaker at the press event at which Justin spoke on Capitol Hill April 12. Not once did Justin say he has or suffers from schizophrenia.
This accusation undermines Justin’s credibility, the credibility of our organization, and the overall goal of our awareness tour. It borders on libel and is, at best, irresponsible reporting.
Lomax also implies impropriety regarding the tour as failing to raise money. This tour was never billed as a fund raiser. The Pick Up the Phone Tour raises awareness about our organization and it’s mission that would cost us millions over the life of the tour to purchase the same number of impressions. It is difficult enough to get celebrities to support mental health issues much less suicide. Lomax’s disparaging piece served to make finding celebrity spokespeople all the more difficult, and, in turn, prevented more awareness. The comments left by people reading Lomax’s article attest to the damage to our organization, our message and the purpose of the tour.
During the press conference that Lomax cited (an event he did not even attend nor are any transcripts or reliable footage available for) Justin shared the story of his stay in a Minneapolis facility where, instead of confiscating his shoelaces and cigarette lighter, staff allowed him to keep both and invited their friends down to get his autograph and take photos with him. In Justin’s words, he could have burned the place down and hanged himself. Up to 1,600 individuals in psychiatric care facilities commit suicide each year—a statistic that served as the press event’s centerpiece, and a statistic Lomax failed to mention in his piece.
We are grateful to Justin, Blue October and their management for affiliating with such a stigmatized issue and taking a proactive approach to suicide prevention—a responsibility we all have, but few of us take on. Accusations of faking mental illnesses do nothing but scare people from coming out and getting help. Public accusations, like Lomax’s article, was a discouraging piece for someone that might have a mental illness but doesn’t want to seek help for fear of being labeled or worse accused of faking it.
A person’s brain disorder—whether Type I or Type II bipolar, depression, schizophrenia, or anxiety—is between that person and his or her doctor. An accurate diagnosis can take up to 10 years, and many people who have one type of disorder can actually have co-occurring disorders but not even know it. Again, it is no one’s business but that of the doctor and patient. We support Justin in his efforts to raise awareness and encourage others to seek treatment for a variety of issues.
We were also greatly turned off by Lomax’s request to see Justin’s prescription. Individuals with many different types of disorders are prescribed medications by general practitioners who do not have the psychiatric background to prescribe these types of medications. Studies show that you cannot tell what someone does or doesn’t “have” by simply looking at a prescription label. Additionally, as of the 1990s, CAT scans, MRIs and SPECT scans are the most valid bits of medical proof of a mental illness because you can actually see the condition in the brain. We do not need to see Justin’s diagnosis on paper or his prescription bottles to know if he has the illness. If Lomax had wanted accurate “proof”, he would have asked for this information—not bottles. Proper research on Lomax’s part would have shown these truths. Lomax could have read tea leaves and had a better bearing on Justin’s condition.
These personal and organizational attacks have hurt the mission of the Pick Up the Phone Tour. It is our opinion that Justin is nothing less than a pioneer in the efforts to erase the stigma associated with mental health issues and should be praised for taking on that role.
Best always,
H. Reese Butler II,
Founder & President, Kristin Brooks Hope Center
Frank Warren,
Founder, PostSecret
Jim Pavle,
Executive Director, Treatment Advocacy Center
Jamie Tworkowski,
Founder, To Write Love On Her Arms
Skip Simpson,
Attorney At Law
-
AprilDawn 06/11/2010 6:55:00 PM
I wasn't going to add a comment as I felt I had nothing positive to bring to this ridiculous article and accusations. Ann K, however, spoke her peace with perfection. So much so that I'm just going to quote her: "Nope, not upset about your opinion of Mr. Furstenfeld or his band, just your ignorance of Mental Illness, and the fact that your article probably did more to perpetuate stigma regarding Mental Illness than it did to ruin the reputation of one individual. Just what we needed. Thanks".
-
Just Me 06/11/2010 4:54:00 AM
I can't quite understand how a "journalist" who seems to think so little of a singer in a band gets so bent out of shape regarding what that singer says onstage. Did you get your feelings hurt? I WISH that for just one day you could experience the life of someone that suffers from a mental illness, particularly bi-polar. My son had severe ADHD and bi-polar....he takes Concerta, Ritalin, Clonidine, Depakote, Risperdone, and Prozac (which is an antidepressant) every day. It has taken several doctors, a 3 week stay in a mental institution, and countless combinations of medications to get him to the point that he can function normally. To look at him you would never know he had a problem, but nonetheless it is there. He is overly dramatic at times and at other times quiet and withdrawn. He has expressed the desire not to live anymore because "he doesn't deserve to be alive". To him, Justin Furstenfeld is a hero.....somebody who has mental issues just like him and still makes his life something worthwhile. I will always be a Blue October fan because of this. Justin, through his music, has shown my son that he is not alone and that has helped him as much as any medication. So, Mr. holier than thou Lomax, if you had asked me to show proof of my sons' illness, I no doubt would have given you a more severe conversation than you received from Justin. And, by the way, my son is 9 years old. So think what you will of the band and it's music, it helped save my son from himself, and for that I will always be grateful.
-
Breana 06/09/2010 7:11:00 PM
For the record I have NEVER liked Blue October, or their emo, pseudo-psycho music. It makes perfect sense to me that Furstenfeld is a big emo fake and is just cashing in on the mentally ill ( you have to be ill to listen to their music anyways). Blue October is not the only band cashing in on a certain part of society that feels negelected, rap artist like 50 cent, T.I are to name a few t,and even politicians do it. They pick out a portion of society that feels left out or ignored by mainstream culture and pay attention to them. Its actually quite genius because that group that has felt ignored for so long finally has someone to pay attention to them and "relates" to them, and they will be lifelong fans ( no matter how bad the music is). That is what Blue October has done and it is very smart. But also when you put yourself out there as someone with a mental illness you need to be legit and show some proof. Shit, I took psychology in college and could probably think of some "symptoms" to demonstrate if I wanted some attention. If he is so open about it, why doesnt he just show the damn perscription bottles? My point is, dont put youreslf out there like that, if you dont want people to pry.
