Not coping well

[David_In_SA]

Hi all, I am new to this group.

I am 52 years old and have suffered from social anxiety and depression since I was a teenager. I have been on medication for most of that time. I do not have a partner or children.

The last 6 years of my life have been crap. My sister has been diagnosed with cancer 4 times during that time, with the most recent diagnosis being a couple of days ago. She has been told it is terminal this time.

Also, my step father died from cancer 3 years ago.

And to top things off, I was made redundant 4 years ago and have been unable to find work since then, as nobody wants to employ someone of my age and with my health issues. I am not eligible for any government support as I am living off my redundancy pay.

I feel miserable most of the time and really have no idea how to feel better. Seeing a psychologist is not an option as I can't afford it and have not found them particularly helpful in the past.

Any suggestions will be appreciated.

[quirkywords]

David_In_SA,

Welcome to the forum. This is a friendly, caring, and supportive community.

It is understandable that you feel that your life has been awful for the last 6 years. I am sorry that your sister has cancer.

I can see it is difficult being made redundant then trying to get another job when people discriminate on your age and health issues.

Is there anything you like doing can be anything, walking, sport, a hobby, art, writing, music, movies, reading, anything that brings you some joy? Sometimes we dwell so much on the grief,sadness and depression in our life we forget that there are things we can be grateful for and that bring us joy.

This is not for a moment underestimating the grief and sadness in your life.

I am not sure about your state but in some states your doctor can give you a mental health plan which can great discount visits to a psychologist or counsellor. It can take time to find the right psychologist or counsellor with whom you feel comfortable.

Have you thought about contacting a help line like the Beyond Blue support service which offers, support action advice by phoning 1300 224636?

Sometimes to helps to talk to someone anonymously and talk and listen.

Thanks for making your first post. People here will relate to what you have written.

You are not alone.

If you browse the threads on the forum you may find other topics that may interest you.

Feel free to post as often as you like.

Quirky

[David_In_SA]

Thank you Quirky for your reply and suggestions.

[quirkywords]

David

I was just wondering how you were going.

of course no need to reply, unless you wish to.

I know you have lot going on and I am here if you need someone to listen .

take care

Quirky

[David_In_SA]

Thank you, Quirky.

I can't say I feel any better but I appreciate your offer to listen. Sorry about the late reply, I haven't logged in for a few days.
One of the problems I have is that I don't really have anyone to discuss my problems with. I don't have any siblings other than my sister who has cancer, and my parents are both elderly. I wouldn't want to bother them as they have enough to deal with at the moment. I have a few friends but I'm not close enough to any of them to discuss serious problems with.