Here is another facebook support group you can try: https://www.facebook.com/groups/578363766251188/

I’m sorry you have experienced such pain and turmoil. I have had generalized anxiety disorder then found it was related to trauma.

What sort of catastrophizing thoughts are you having during your anxious moments? Maybe start by recording your thoughts. Let me know how I can help. CBT might be helpful but it doesn’t work for everyone. CBT is cognitive behavioral therapy which I’m sure you’ve heard of. Challenge those negative thought patterns by first identifying them and naming your feelings.

Meaning- I know you are fearful of social situations but what about them is scary to you? Let’s break it down.

Same goes for your depression. What thoughts are you having at this time?

If you can pinpoint your thoughts which are influencing your feelings, then you’ll be able to uncover irrational thoughts hindering your wellbeing. Maybe spend a few days taking notes unless you can recall very clearly. There’s worry journaling where for 20 minutes you just write everything that you are worried about like a brain dump.

I have focus issues too due to stress and learning disability. I have ADD but it’s also trauma related. I’m figuring out how to navigate that myself. It sounds like things are just overwhelming to you and you’re having trouble functioning.

I think it’s time to ask for help. Professional help. You’re not in complete control. Try to find a therapist who specializes in trauma. That would help. Be upfront about your needs for feedback. I have to self advocate sometimes with mine but it works. And if you don’t like them, give them like a month and then switch. Use it to vent if anything like you are doing here. You need an outlet and sounds like you aren’t getting one in your social supports.

There’s also exposure therapy. Make small goals for yourself. Instead of jumping to attending parties or talking on the phone, see if you can go to a public place for an hour. Things like that. Come up with some doable goals but also don’t feel bad about yourself if you don’t make them happen. You don’t have to work like a machine.

If you ever want anyone to read your scripts, I can be a good coach or cheerleader (not an editor though lol). I don’t give out my email but my website is http://www.sarahjeannebrowne.com Click on contact page and submit an email that way to get my email address. I’ll reply and then you’ll have mine to send a script too. ONLY IF YOU WANT IM NOT TRYING TO BE WEIRD LOL

I’ll reread Man’s Search for Meaning and let me know your thoughts as you do too- either here or on email.

I’m proud of you once again. You are doing great things by taking small steps.

And your mom situation- well, when you figure out your anxiety and depression, that will get easier because you’ll know what you need to thrive. She’s not providing any emotional support so it’s hard when you feel defeated. You are doing better than you think. 🙂

Keep thinking about purpose. It’ll help you through the depression. I know it helps me.

Sarah

• This reply was modified 3 years, 4 months ago by Sarah Jeanne Browne.