I hate it, I hate it, I hate it!!

[Sofala]

I plain and simply HATE IT!! I hate that it has such control over me, I hate feeling like my nerves are shot ALL THE TIME, feeling so alone, so isolated, desperate for help and strength, desperate to feel 'normal' to do normal things to be happy and free from it.

Why is it my sister is capable of jumping on a plane last minute and have a weekend alone, go to shows alone, go out for a cuppa alone and enjoy it? Why does the idea of just going to the supermarket send me into a panic? I just want to enjoy life, feel safe in my own skin, have faith in my mind and body, is that really too much to ask?

[EmptyChairs]

Hi Sofala,

Your observations sound so familiar to me. I have struggled with anxiety since my teens and similarly can't do many things that most people don't think twice about.

For me, coming to the acceptance of some things was beneficial. With the help of a wonderful psychologist I am now working through the list of things that I have prioritised, achieving things and forcing myself to do things that i hadn't thought possible.

My advice is to never stop pushing your boundaries. If shopping centres bother you, maybe start with a 24hr Kmart or ar 6am when the supermarket opens and its quiet. I have found it so beneficial to never rest on laurels and keep pushing.

I know that practical advice doesn't really help during the dark times but hang in there. You are not alone despite it sometimes appearing so