Pubdate: Sun, 03 Feb 2002 Source: Tallahassee Democrat (FL) Copyright: 2002 Tallahassee Democrat. Contact: http://www.tdo.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/444 Author: Don Bertoch Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v02/n152/a08.html COVERAGE OF NOELLE BUSH WAS UNFORTUNATE AND DISGUSTING The editor's decision to publish the news about Noelle Bush (front page, Jan. 30) was both unfortunate and disgusting. The paper pandered to the public's penchant for gossip, especially when it involves the locally rich, famous and powerful. Its content did little if anything to increase the public's understanding of the nature and course of having a substance abuse disorder that impairs judgment and emotional control which, in turn, produces social, psychological and legal problems. John Winn Miller's defense (column, Jan. 30) reflected little understanding and compassion for Ms. Bush, who suffered from what is likely a serious mental health and/or substance abuse condition. It was unfortunate the articles were published because they may be harmful to the well-being and health of Ms. Bush and other members of the Bush family. Possible negative outcomes affecting Ms. Bush and/or family members include ostracism from the community, estrangement among family members, clinical depression, homelessness, intensified substance abuse, suicide attempts, job loss and protracted unemployment in the community. Don Bertoch - --- MAP posted-by: Jo-D