What happened doesn't have to define me

[Mia001]

Hi everyone!

I'm new here. Not really sure what to do. Where do I start? Any suggestions?

Mia

[Guest_9809]

Hi Mia. Sorry it took me longer to get back to you than I'd planned. Anyway, I just read your earlier post. I'm sad to hear that you are dealing with all this right now, its very difficult I expect.

Okay firstly, yes it does help to talk to someone, to open up and say what it is thats really bothering you. So well done with your post. Dont forget too that if you would prefer it, it may be helpful to keep a journal or else just to write things down. I find it very therapeutic at times, and perhaps you would too.

Secondly, your friends sound very genuine and if they are saying they are there for you, I would take them at their word. You dont have to dump everything on them, but it may help to unburden yourself just a little. And besides, friends like to feel like they are helping, so allow them that small pleasure! If your friends abandon you because you are experiencing difficulties right now, then they are not genuine friends and you can well do without them.

I am not very experienced with workplace harrassment so really cant offer too much advice in that regard. Sorry. You are dealing with the ramifications of that via clear anxiety symptoms - eg tightness in the chest, racing heart, feeling unusually irritated, etc. I know it sounds pathetic, but truly you need to breath. And you would definitely benefit from having some professional assistance to assist you to develop methods to allow you to deal with, and overcome, your anxiety symptoms.

As far as jobs go, you are currently working in the fast food industry. Are you looking for any work within the aged care industry at this stage? You have completed your course to allow you to work in the industry. It was my belief that there is always a shortage of workers in aged care. You may find it less stressful than where you are currently working. I realise that you are wanting to further your studies into nursing or paramedic, but at least working in aged care is in a similar field, and can be a stepping stone for you.

Most unfortunate you're unable to see a counsellor until 6 weeks away - a long time when you are struggling as you are. Is there any chance of seeing your GP and getting a referral to a psychologist sooner than that? It could be a better option for you in the longer term anyway. Your GP could put you on a Mental Health Care Plan if deemed appropriate, which would mean up to 10 Medicare subsidised psych visits per year.

Here till 11pm if you want to chat.

Taurus

[Mia001]

Hi Taurus,

Actually, I can't wait to leave my current job. As much as I like working on the front counter, I do get bored. Also, fast food is repetitive and task-oriented, which can be frustrating for me as I'm definitely person-oriented. But in saying that, I'm being trained on drive-thru at the moment which is a new challenge, so that will keep me occupied for a while.

I'm hoping to be working in aged care within 6 months. I won't be able to look for a job until I get my P's, otherwise I won't have transport. The shifts all start either very early or very late. My parents wouldn't be able to drive me in all the time. The only other option is to see if there's anyone I know within walking distance of an aged care facility. Maybe I could board with someone for a while. Just a thought. I'm going to book in for the Safer Drivers Course, which will give me 20 logbook hours. Just have to keep on driving!

Actually, I should be seeing my doctor tomorrow, as I'm having my chickenpox needle. I might talk to him about the Mental Health Care Plan then. Being under 18, would my parents need to know about this? I haven't told them anything.

About my friends... I'm usually pretty good at telling if people are okay or not, but I've made a few mistakes, which kind of devastated me. I guess you're always wondering if they just want something from you, or if they really do care about you. It makes it hard now because I'm either overly suspicious or too trusting. I doubt my own abilities, question what they say. It's something I talked about with the counsellor, but I guess it's something that will just take time. Anyway, I guess I'll see if I can catch up with a few of my friends and have a chat.

Oh, please don't think I'm rude if I don't reply straight away sometimes. It's just that the WiFi is usually turned off at about 9:30pm 🙂

Mia

[Mia001]

Hi Later,

Thankyou for replying. Yeah, maybe I should take some time off. Might happen anyway since I've got the flu!

Will definitely talk to my doctor soon. Actually, I should be seeing him tomorrow.

Mia

[Guest_9809]

Morning Mia. No problems about no immediate reply, I totally understand. Looks like I may have missed you this morning as well ... not to worry.

Thanks for explaining about the work situation, and the driving. Getting a licence is much harder these days than it was when I got my licence I must say. Oh well, just take every opportunity to clock up some hours as and when you can. Meantime yes, if it is feasible, boarding in town could be a good solution to your work situation and definitely worth considering.

I am not sure about whether you need your parents approval to go onto a MHCP. But certainly discuss this with your GP when you see them tomorrow.

As for talking with friends, yes it needs to be a selective thing. I expect you will already know who you can talk to and who you cant. And also which of your friends are likely to be more understanding and supportive. Choose carefully, but well worth the effort in the end.

Hope you have a good day. And pleased that you are getting to learn a new challenge at work. Keeps the mind active and sad thoughts temporarily at bay. Take care beautiful. (-:

Taurus xx

[Mia001]

Hi Taurus,

Yeah, just got up and had breakfast. I've got the flu, so I'm back in bed. I think I'll be okay for tomorrow though.

Just sent a message to one of my friends. She's really busy, but she said she hopes I'm ok and she'll try and catch up next week. Hopefully, that works out.

I think I'll do some reading and maybe listen to my favourite playlist. Oh, and see if I can tempt my cat away from the fire 🙂

Thanks for caring,

Mia

[Guest_9809]

Okay Mia. Rest up and get yourself well again. Good on you for contacting one of your friends. I'm sure it will work out fine. You dont have to tell her everything, only what you are comfortable with, and what you think she can handle. A good day today to be snuggled up under the doona I think. Started sunny here, but cloud rapidly building and perhaps rain later.

Take care.

Taurus xx

[Guest_523]

Hi I am new here just joined my name is Robert, I look forward to having positive discussions with people. 🙂

[Mia001]

Hi Robert,

Welcome to the forums. I hope you're enjoying your time here!

I've just read your thread "Newbie to these forums Hello from Robert" . You sound like a very determined and intelligent person. I really hope everything goes well for you.

Mia

[Guest_523]

Mia that was a very nice thing to say. Thanks you so much for being so kind. I hope that you are having a good day 🙂

[Mia001]

Hi to whoever sees this,

Just thought I'd make an update. I'm going to see the GP about MHCP in 30 minutes. I'm a bit nervous; unsure as to how it will go. I'll guess I just have to wait and see what he says.

Thanks for your reply Sensitive Viking. Hope you have a good day too 🙂

Mia