No one likes to be around a sick person

[novemberbaby]

I have been struggling with a panic disorder since I can remember (8 years old). I really don’t know what it feels like to be normal.

Instead of going through my history I’m going to just go through this year. I have basically lost all of my friends because of this really stupid invisible illness.

There was a stupid fight we had (me and this small group of friends) and I came from a place of paranoia and social anxiety - I did not say anything harmful I was expressing a feeling however now I have been told that they cannot be friends with me.

’negative energy’ has been thrown around and that is a punch in the gut, especially for people who struggle with illnesses like mine who due have to deal with negativity in their life, being labelled as a negative force. It broke my heart.

But more importantly is that I feel like a complete loser. I have no idea why I try anymore I’m 23 years old and I’m going no where and no one is on my side - no one understands me and no one has cut me slack or checked up on me.

What. Is. The. Point.

[stormcloudz]

Hi Novemberbaby

I have a bit of social anxiety and can understand the struggles you have with friendships. I want you to know that things can improve.

I can particularly understand the pain of being labelled 'negative energy' - that's just really not helpful or accurate. It's such a shallow blanket statement that doesn’t take into account the complexity of a human being. Please don't take it on board. Reject that label right now, and if you want one, accept a hug from me instead : )

Do you have any support for your panic disorder? If not, do you want any practical tips?

I'm happy to check in on you, and you'll find compassionate and understanding people on this forum who won't be scared off.

[blueskye]

Hi novemberbaby,

I'm 21 and my best friend told me, "You're always so negative" a few months back. It really hurt so I can absolutely understand how you felt. However, she was saying it out of spite as she was upset. The situation was that she got her hair dyed blonde and wanted my honest opinion as to what I thought of it. I said I liked the blonde hair but I personally preferred her being a brunette more. She did not take my honest opinion well. She apologized after though, confirmed that it was because she was in a bad mood, and we're back on good terms.

I get panic attacks sometimes myself and it's hard to understand it for people that don't get them. I would love to be your friend, so please don't beat yourself over your panic disorders. You are NOT a loser.

Perhaps it's time to reconsider your friends though. Having a panic disorder doesn't mean you don't qualify for friends. I suggest meeting new people in other places such as volunteering or be involved in team sport.

Hope it works out ❤️

[GinaS]

Hi NovemberBaby,

I suffer from Bipolar and when i am having an episode or really struggling , i get treated like i have leprosy and no one comes near me and know most of my friends have vanished. Its so hard and we all here understand your day to day struggle. Thankfully you can seek refuge and support in here, dont be shy , we are here for you xxx