I have only been mentally out for just over a year and I find it difficult to live this double life, ( ex-elder/reg pioneer)
I'm still in for probably the same reason as most who post here=
a wife that I cherish= who would be destroyed and kick me to the curb
lifelong (40 yrs.) close friends= who would totally disown me the second the announcement is made no questions asked! ( I don't blame them, I blame the Org. they are just R&F prisoners)
The absolute constant being in a state of shock that I have wasted my entire life serving the org. who have lied to us.
I have told myself I can deal with this for the sake of keeping the above in tact, but it has become a big cat and mouse game, always on guard not to slip up saying something that would out myself (although it's obvious I'm on edge), field service without the “faith” it takes to do it is almost impossible, and the meetings...well you get it.
So some comments from those who are in this situation on what you have done to cope and not loose your mind would be appreciated.
I must say this forum has helped immensely as being stuck-in you really don't have anyone to talk to or vent and their is some comfort in knowing you are not alone.
Kensho