Dear Nichole:

You are welcome. Every time you notice that you “feel guilty that she isn’t here anymore”, repeat to yourself: it is not my fault that she isn’t here anymore. I did not cause her death, I am not responsible for it. Then take a deep breath, repeat the thought when calm.

Keep distracting yourself in healthy ways, exercise, walks, a good movie, etc.

The family you do have in Chicago, connect and communicate only with those who are empathetic and attentive to you. Not all family members are created equal… Not all are good for you.

Maybe you can sleep in another room? It may help.

Can you make a daily plan for yourself, a plan you put together every evening for the next day or every morning for the day, things to do. Not too many things so to not overwhelm yourself, but enough so that you feel that you make some good use out of your time, that you are moving your life forward somewhat?

anita