Time to reach out

[jenijenjen]

I was diagnosed, years ago, with depression and social anxiety. I also have a chronic condition that limits how much I can do physically. And I am a recovered alcoholic (sober 7 years).

My mental health is really bad at the moment. I've spent the majority of this year in bed (mostly due to physical pain). When I am physically capable of doing anything I find it a huge effort to do it. I avoid anyone outside of my household because socialising makes me so tired. If I get interested in something it doesn't last. 

I feel like I'm just wasting my life away and I really don't want to be like this

[Sophie_M]

Dear jenijenjen,

Finding the internal courage to post this message, even though you have chronic pain and social shyness, is inspiring, and something of which to be proud. We are pleased to welcome you to our community.

Unfortunately, chronic pain saps a person's strength and energy. And, when you suffer from social anxiety, it requires lots of internal strength just to be able to meet people and build those initial connections.

The first thing we wonder is do you have a pain management team helping you with strategies and techniques for dealing with your pain the best way possible?

When you have this at the best level possible, we would encourage you to talk with your GP about getting a mental health plan in place. This way, you should be able to work with a psych on developing strategies around working with your social anxiety.

Our counsellors are available 24 hours per day, every day of the year, on 1300 22 4636. They are fully trained and quite experienced.

Our community members are quite supportive, and give good advice based on their lived experiences. We look forward to reading their thoughts for you.

Warm regards,

Sophie M.
 

[Petal22]

Hi jenijenjen,

Wellcome to our forums.

I just wanted to acknowledge and say congratulations for 7 years sober this is a huge accomplishment and something you should be very proud of.

Have you ever thought about being a mentor for others who are trying to become sober?

I believe it really helps people who are currently going through addiction who want to become sober to have someone else who has been in their shoes to encourage them along their journey.

Im sorry your mentor health is bad are you currently seeing a health professional?

I understand that chronic pain is hard to deal with.

Just a suggestion how about writing a list of all of the things you are currently grateful for?

What this will begin to do is renew your mindset.

You could even start googling and reading positive affirmations this will also help to renew your mindset.

You are STRONG and RESILIENT your 7 years sober proves that and the social anxiety you are currently feeling can be overcome.

[jenijenjen]

Thank you for your reply, and advice. I will talk to my GP about a care plan

[jenijenjen]

Thanks Petal22. I'm not sure about Mentoring at this point in my life. I have been trying to get in to volunteering with the elderly.

[Mark Z.]

Hi jenijenjen,

It must be super hard when you have mental and physical challenge at the same time.

You mentioned that you're a recovered alcoholic, this is a great achievement, you've done so well. There must be huge continouos efforts.

May I ask how's the current process of the treatment of your chronic pain? Are you on the right track to become better? Is it possible to fully recover?

And when you say you get interested in something it doesn't last, do you want to share what was your latest interest? Maybe you can start with easier activities, for example, have a walk in the morning or have a warm shower before going to bed.

Mark

[Petal22]

That's ok jenijenjen,

Volunteering with the elderly sounds like a great idea, good luck with this I hope you find something.

Being in the presence of the  elderly is so calming, they have so much valuable insight from the lives that they have lived.

[jaz28]

Hi there,

I am sorry you are feeling this way and are experiencing some physical struggles also. But congratulations on being 7 years sober, I hope that must be a positive thing in your life and you should be proud of yourself.

It is good you want to make a change in your life, but you have to realise your limits. And, realise the resources that can help you. Have you seen your doctor or a psychologist about these feelings? They may be able to help you. Do you see a doctor for your physical condition?

I hope things improve soon and please reach out again if you need,

Jaz xx

[jenijenjen]

Hi Mark. I'm currently going through medication reduction as it is causing other problems. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis so no cure yet.

My hobbies are painting, learning the ukulele, learning Japanese and gardening

[jenijenjen]

Thank you Jaz, I will