Struggling

[Vanessa]

Hi,

im not sure what's going on. I've always "just got on with things" but for some reason I'm struggling at the moment.

i constantly feel that I'm not good enough. I Feel awkward and uncomfortable around people and that they are judging me (ironically the more that happens the more I start judging people in my head). I'm starting to isolate myself socially as I feel out of my depth. I never know what to say and have often gotten myself in trouble saying the wrong thing.

i have primary aged children who I adore (and are the highlight of my life). I'm trying to hide my issues from them but just feel so alone and sad.

[Zeal]

Hi Vanessa,

Welcome to the forum!

The way you are feeling can be improved with support. I recommend having a few sessions with a counsellor or psychologist. Calling a helpline is an additional way to reach out (but doesn't replace in-person support). Beyondblue is reachable 24/7 on 1300 22 4636. Calls can be made for many reasons, and it doesn't have to be an emergency. If calling a helpline seems foreign, here are some tips that could help: http://au.reachout.com/calling-a-helpline

This site is also worth exploring. You could bookmark it and come back to it later: http://www.mindhealthconnect.org.au/

Going to your doctor (GP) first is an option, as they can refer you to a counsellor or psychologist. Whether you go to your GP first or book in with a counsellor straight away, I hope you can get support soon.

Best wishes,

Zeal

[blondguy]

Hello Vanessa

Welcome to the forums and good on you for posting too!

Feeling alone and sad is a bad place to be in. Similar to a feeling of hopelessness. Feeling like you are not good enough doesnt help either. Ive had depression for many years and understand where you are coming from. (not that you have depression of course)

It can be a huge help to have a support network, a few or even a couple of friends we can bounce off when we feel this way. Do you have anyone you can lean on?

Having the ability to 'vent' as you have done on here today is beneficial to our mental health as we all need to blow off some steam and have a talk.

There are many kind people like yourself Vanessa that can be here for you on the forums. Many people here feel the same as you do. The forums are also a judgement free zone too..if you want to post back and have a chat about anything you wish 🙂

My kind thoughts for you.............You are not alone here Vanessa....

Paulx

[Vanessa]

Thanks Paul,

i have a wide group of "surface" friends, but no-one I trust enough to open up. I wouldn't even know what to say anyway. I have a very fractured relationship with my sisters (only speak at Christmas and sometimes not even then as I live in a different state to my family). My mother died when I was 20 and while my father is alive and we are close he is very "old school" and would tell me to snap out of it. I lead a very middle-class life, don't have money issues, my children are healthy and happy. I know I'm lucky and have nothing to complain about. But I can't shake these feelings of depression and anxiety.

i think i maybe do need to speak to a counsellor but (a) feel enbarrasssed to go to a dr and (b) wouldn't know what to say to both the dr and counsellor.

[blondguy]

Hi Vanessa, thanks for posting back. I have been the same as you with the middle class life....I understand. My dad also (very firmly) told me to get 'over it'.....It never worked.

The GP's are there because we pay their salaries. I was hesitant at first and then realised that my doc had an interest in my 'down moods'. I have since been pestering him for 20 years 🙂

There is no shame or embarrassment as you are the customer where your doc is concerned. Thats why the GP's and counselors have a box of tissues handy....for patients that have a really good cry/vent.

You have absolutely nothing to lose and everything to gain Vanessa...Your children's well being and growth will be only enhanced by you having even a little chat to a doc you are comfortable with

I am very sorry about the passing of your mum.............Paulx