Not coping with my predicament

[Schaafted]

Hello members, just over 10 years ago I started having panic attacks at work in the company I founded. I had let 3 other “friends” join the business for no financial outlay. 2 of which I had known since 1996. I did copious amounts of hours building systems and actually doing the work.

I got to a point of being very depressed and suicidal when they basically forced my exit from the business, all the while knowing that we had already won a $28 million dollar contract and that they had planned to sell the business to a tier 1 contractor. 
Whilst I did get $500k at the time, they sold the business less than a year later for $14.9 million.

I was told by another friend that they were bragging about screwing me over at a party they had in Las Vegas in 2013.

I had started legal proceedings and it will go to trial in November, and believe the case is cut and dried but the mental and physical toll of constantly thinking about how I can actually pay for it is taking a real toll. Dizziness everyday to the point of collapse, constant tinnitus, chest pains, lack of sleep. Not sure I will make it to November, let alone if I can pay for it, or if they appeal the decision when I win. My brother, sister and partner all want me to drop it but I just can’t, as whom I thought were my mates, just took my company, a dream of mine and just cashed it in with absolutely no regard for me or my welfare.

Need to talk to somebody about it but, nobody is willing to listen or understand. Would appreciate any incite.

[Bob_22]

Hello Schaafted,

Welcome to the BB online community and thank you for posting your story. It is very brave and a fantastic thing you have done. I'm sorry to hear about your struggles lately regarding an upcoming trial and the toll it is taking on you.

Fortunately, I've not yet experienced any legal battles and am not entirely familiar with the demands and tolls it can take. But from what little I know, it is a massive undertaking especially when spread over years. Regardless of the cause, I would say it is definitely worth consulting a GP for the symptoms you are experiencing. Alot of these symptoms line up with common experiences with anxiety and so this also might be worth discussing. I would reguarly experiencing dizziness (especially when standing), tinnitus, sleep issues, heart rate issues and pain which stemmed from my generalised anxiety. A psychologist can help ease these symptoms (if anxiety is the cause) through cognitive behavioural therapy which includes things like breathing exercises, thought challenging and behavioural techniques.

In terms of the trial itself, that is something I'm afraid you would have to consult with both your family and lawyers. However, it certainly sounds like a burden which you may consider lifting whether you go ahead or not. I hope someone on these forums who has gone through something similar can chime in, but regardless, we are all hear to listen. 🙂 

Please update us on how you go.

Bob