Finally reaching out for support
Hello...
I'm here in hopes to not further isolate myself, to maybe find support so that I don't fall further.
I'm a 40 (almost 41), diagnosed with bipolar earlier in life. I've maintained a somewhat solid work/social life until later. I've been the strong fighter but feel now I'm in a stage of my life where I feel hopeless.
A little background. I'm an empath. I'm a few years out of a 13 yr relationship that I had believed would be my only love. I struggle to open up, unfortunately, in a long distance relationship with someone who is high functioning spectrum, unableto match my high need to for love or communication but tries rarely in ways he can. I've always found myself seeking those I can help and protect constantly refusing to worry about myself. I'm unfortunately at that point where I have isolated myself from everyone (even caring family and friends) not feeling I can talk about any of this. I have unfortunately also run into extreme medical conditions that have essentially cost me my job and all normal living, a job of 5 consistent years, a job that I was proud of. Now no longer having health insurance and also hating myself for such failure (barely living on unemployment that only keeps me alive), that my mental capacity can no longer function for normal life/jobs. I'm pulling in on myself and struggle to even explain in concise words of what I'm truly feeling.
I can finally admit I need support.
I apologize if this was the wrong place to post, new to all of this.
@ShannonDenise81
Hi Shannon.
It's sad to see that you have so many troubles in your life now.
Maybe you'll find a listener to talk to 1:1 here, or you can go to sharing circle where you can listen to others or share.
@ShannonDenise81
reaching out and writing it down is like a relief valve ....
you sound like you know what you need to do and getting support or a person to bounce things off can help. big changes are very difficult and often scary but looking back at a job or relationship some tend to see good but not other aspects .....
while hard you are in a spot to move forward to tell yourself ....."i have learned from past experience and am ready to meet new challenges and learn new life lessons"
i say that or similar thing out loud putting it out into the world.......... and it seems like a door opens or an opportunity appears ........ you will not SEE it if you are only looking backwards.
@ShannonDenise81 It sounds like you've been putting the needs of others above your own and this has cost you your health, your job, and often your happiness. I'm hearing that you're having a hard time trusting other people enough to open up and make yourself vulnerable after the shock and emotional pain of having your 13 year relationship end unexpectedly. It seems that hating yourself is making things seem hopeless and making it harder for you to focus on finding solutions to your current challenges. These resources may be helpful to you: https://www.7cups.com/managing-bipolar/ https://www.7cups.com/boundaries/ You've explained your feelings and situation well. Feel free to message me anytime if you would like to talk more about this. I hope you find balance and fulfillment in life.
@ShannonDenise81
Don't worry i am with you dear
Hi I ran across your story I can only imagine how hard that can be look me up would love to try and help maybe b a friend
Very well articulated and interestingly relatable as I too has life has thrown you curve balls one after another. Meaningful job, education, and dozens of relationships. To unemployed, progressing isolation from loved ones.
Skip ahead, now I find ACT therapeutic techniques often help me step out of myself and look at a different perspective.
You're not alone 🙏 God speed
@Brainhack249 Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us.
Thanks for helping this member.
@ShannonDenise81 So sorry your struggling right now.
Maybe try talking to a therapist or a listener here at 7cups.
They might be able to help.
For listeners visit: https://www.7Cups.com/BrowseListeners/
For Therapists visit: https://www.7Cups.com/online-therapy/?Ob=1
Also if you live in the United States Of America, if you cannot work due to a physical or mental impairment, you may qualify for SS benefits.
To find out more please call your local SSA office, in your area.
I hope this helps.
Please don't feel hopeless you got this! self-care should be your top priority what are some coping skills you use?
@ShannonDenise81 with interest i noticed about "your story". It reflects well my own path. Being knocked out by a burn out/depression after a very well paid consulting job.
I had days nothing to eat ... not knowing how life could move on. Now looking back 20 years, it was part of my self healing process.
I dont want give you an advice as it feels that you do it already well wuth your self reflection ... being able to artuculate well your feelings.
Maybe it migjt give you one ore even some more perspectives and hope for a brighter future if you look at your sitation by asking wuesruobs like following:
1.) What kind of people I need as well wisher and mentor ? And where I might find them?
2.) Against all bad ciecumstances (health, finances) what I am still intetested in to do? (E.g. you might like to watch sports, hear music, play with dogs, rwad books, cook or just enjoy the beach or growing flowers)
3.) Against all kind of handicsps you have to deal with what skills, talents or knowledge you still could use for any kind of activity in yhe future?
4.) Where might these places be (outside traditional mainstream society) and who else might need such a place to be supported?
Have trust, that ouy there is a place for you a bright future is waiting for you. Good luck!
Regards/Linux from Netherlands
hello i need courage like you
