anita,

Yes, your thoughts are quite clear.  I could see it being the case that what happened recently with the romantic relationship triggered those feelings of rejection from my childhood.  I have known for a while that it is important to set boundaries, to know when someone isn’t reciprocating your feelings, but it hasn’t always been easy for me to refrain from reaching out and seeing if they might realize that I care about them and change their mind… but that usually is never the case, as I have learned.

So, I’m glad that I’ve realized just how important it is to really take care of myself.  Self-care is not just taking a bubble bath or giving your feet a massage–it can be hard work!  The things we don’t particularly like to hear, perhaps.  It is really sticking up for oneself and knowing one’s limits and what one stands for, not letting people take advantage.  But I am glad I am here now and can be at peace.  I know that the feelings of anxiety will pass–it was only the situations I was in that triggered them.  After being gentle on myself and allowing myself to rest when I feel the need, I know I will be back to feeling myself.  Thank you tremendously for your help.

steph