Hi

[Clea]

I found these forums today while looking for help online. I see a psychologist regularly which helps but she's on holidays for a couple of months. It's now been a month since I last saw her.

I'm a mother of two kids. My parents both died and my brother has a disibility which makes him another dependent on me. My husband is lovely and supportive but he works so much so I feel alone most of the time. I have friends but they have their own things going on. I have no family support. I suffer from depression and anxiety and sometimes just struggle with the day to day.

Not really sure what I'm hoping for by posting this but just needed to talk to someone outside of my life who understands depression and anxiety.

Thanks for "listening".

[Birdy77]

Dear Clea,

I just wanted to say I am glad you've reached out here for some support and to welcome you.

There are many of us here who understand what it's like living with anxiety and depression and I hope you find this a friendly and accepting place to lay down some of your burdens.

We are always ready to listen and care.

It sounds like you have a lot on your shoulders, it is good to hear that you have the support of a psychologist, it is very hard without family support.

Please feel welcome to join in any discussions that interest you, and to lay your worries down here.

Welcome 😊

🌻birdy

[PamelaR]

Hi Clea

I'd like to join Birdy in welcoming you to the Beyond Blue forums. It is good you've found your way here.

My journey to BB was similar to yours. I was waiting to see a new psych though and there was a long waiting period. I found BB - it's been a life line for me. The community is very supportive, caring and non judgemental.

Keep reaching out if and when you want to Clea. You're not alone.

Kind regards

PamelaR

[Clea]

Thanks Birdy for the welcome. I do feel like I have a lot on my plate and I am finding it hard with the long break from my psychologist at the moment.

[Clea]

Thanks for the welcome Pamela. My psychologist is going on maternity leave part way through next year. She will find me someone new to see and I hope the new one is as good.

[Birdy77]

Dear Clea,

I understand what you mean, I think when we're used to unpacking things in our therapy sessions, it can feel a bit lonely or something when we have to have a break from that for whatever reason.

Do you journal at all? I have found that helpful in the past, just to get it all out ... not the same as having the validation of a therapist, but sometimes helpful to unravel the knots inside a little bit.

Talking here might help you a little bit as well. Also reading other people's stories may help you to feel less alone at least.

You are welcome to join in anywhere you like.

🌻birdy

[Clea]

hi birdy

I used to write in a journal a long time ago. Not sure why I stopped as it did help. You also reminded me that I used to write down three good things that happened every day before bed but I also stopped that. I should start these things again as they did help. Thanks

[Birdy77]

Dear Clea,

I think sometimes when we're in the middle of our anxiety etc, we can easily forget what helps us.

Maybe you can try the journaling again and see if it does help, even just for this period in which you can't see your therapist.

There is a thread on the forums called "Three things to be thankful for today" in the Staying Well section. It might help to prompt you with your gratitude diary.

Sometimes it's hard to find 3 things ... one is ok!

🌻birdy