The distant, quirky, pitiable character of Harper Pitt is an agoraphobe and a Valium addict. She represents the negative harm that can be inflicted on those surrounding an individual in denial of their sexual identity.Troubled by the unescapable truth that is her given reality, Harper cannot leave the house and resorts to drug-induced hallucinations.
Here is some additional information on agoraphobia and Valium to better understand her condition:
Agoraphobia
“Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder involving anxiety and intense fear of any situation where escape may be difficult, or where help may not be available. It often involves a fear of crowds, bridges or of being outside alone.” Symptoms include not only fear of being in crowded places, but also a fear of spending time alone. (Perhaps this can explain the frequent presence of Mr.Lies.) Agoraphobics tend to be overly dependent on others (Joe), or stay at home all the time. Some feelings that people with this disorder encounter include feeling as though their body and environment are not real. (Sound like a hallucination?)
Valium
Valium is a drug used to treat anxiety disorders, muscle spasms, and alcohol withdrawal symptoms. It contains chemicals that can cause anxiety. It is highly addictive and individuals are strongly advised not to take the drug if one has a history of mental illness, depression, suicidal thoughts, or a history of drug or alcohol addiction. Interestingly enough, it is strongly advised to be only used for short-term treatments, and to flush any unused pills down the toilet. Side effects include hallucinations, confusion, depression, and memory problems. Overdose can be fatal.
Here’s an additional link to an organization called the Straight Spouse Network, offering free support to heterosexuals with gay spouses: http://www.straightspouse.org/
Perhaps Harper would have found this helpful.
Sources: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001921/ http://www.drugs.com/valium.html