Hello intro

[Wagtail84]

Hi there you can call me Wag, 

I’m here because today was a particularly bad day, out of what has felt like a bit of a never ending sea of not great days… 

I’ve browsed and lurked the forums for a bit on and off before and this does seem like a safe space and a place with real people

going through the very real things I feel myself- and seem to be alone in experiencing. 
I will find time to put my own issues up for advice and support at some point but for now just saying hi and also that if I can add to the place

also I will try 

thank you 

[Richju]

Hey Wag,

Sorry to hear you're still feeling down. I know it can feel that you'll never recover but my issues happened many years ago and I've recovered through meditation and gentle exercise.

I understand that when negative thoughts take hold, we can feel so bad. The thoughts seem to take control and we can start to believe that no one cares and nothing will change. I have found that meditation is a great help in learning to control these intrusive thoughts. 

We all make mistakes, hurt others and are hurt in return but going over and over those things serves no purpose. We cannot fix what has happened but we can learn from it.

Meditation has helped me to concentrate on what's happening right now and, as I write this, I'm grateful for my warm bed, the birdsong I can hear outside and I'm looking forward to the activities of today, when I attend my craft group.

It does take time Wag, but I belirve that we can find something good in each day to be thankful for.

Is there a beach or a park you can walk to and sit and enjoy the sun and perhaps watch children playing? I have found that even a 10 minute walk each day can be beneficial.

I'm here for you if you'd like to reply. As I mentioned, I have been in a dark place like yours and would be more than happy to support you through this.

Very warm regards,

Ruchju

[Wagtail84]

You’re a legend thanks for the supportive tips- and I’m glad you’ve found a couple of ways to reset your thinking and mentality.

I struggle with it a little bit sometimes, just because I get a few physiological pangs and I have some physical health issues that combine with my anxiety to make a sort of perfect storm. 
it’s usually a mix of hopelessness, fatigue, self loathing or doubt, and anger at how my body lets me down. 
So tonight I’m spiralling a bit with some pain and trying to just let things flow, if there’s a panic attack coming the whole Idea of  white-knuckling it alone is making things worse and I’m trying to head that off by coming on here… 

I hope really hope everyone else is doing good- and not feeling isolated like this or if you’re going through something reach out and even just a word or two or writing a line or two might help. 

wag x 

[Richju]

Hi again Wag,

So lovely to hear from you. You are sounding more positive and congratulations on your strength and courage in dealing with your physical as well as mental pain.

Isolation is difficult to deal with, especially when your are unwell so this forum is excellent for reaching out to others. Panic attacks are frighteneing and I find it best to concentrate on my breathing when they happen. If things get really bad, I try to count my breaths or just repeat 'in and out' as I breathe. 

Are you managing to get a little exercise? Now the weather is warming up it's nice to sit outside in the sun for a while. I'm not sure if you like gardening but I'm putting some strawberries and passionfruit in pots at the moment. I enjoy caring for my plants and watching them grow. 

I was sad to hear of your self-loathing. You seem such a lovely person and I hope you can begin to love yourself just a little by congratulating yourself as I mentioned above, by eating good food and caring for your body. I began with little things such as moisturising after my shower, having a cup of green tea first thing in the morning, having a good stretch if I was too tired to go for a walk. 

It will take time Wag but please don't despair and please contact me whenever you feel down or whenever your are congratulating yourself. I really want to hear about all of it and look forward to your next post.

Take care and love yourself,

Warmest regards,

Richju xx