When family doesn't understand

[Givingup]

I've been dealing with anxiety and depression for many years and my family just can't understand my sense of loneliness and the way the depression and anxiety manifest themselves. It's very lonely and puts up many barriers. Is anyone else experiencing this?

[Hidden]

My family seems to think that these are emotions I can and should be able to control. I feel..that they think I am just being weak minded and That all I need to do is get up and get moving...if they only knew how broken I am. I am sorry your family does not understand what your feeling.

[Givingup in reply to Hidden]

I'm very sorry for you. I hope it all gets better.

[Hidden in reply to Givingup]

I have to make it better...or fake it better. Just a hard situation. Im sorry you feel how you do. It is always nice when your in an environment that allows you to care for and put others needs first. However; reality always punches us in the face. We are living two or maybe three lives. We can feel great about doing good...for others..or by putting on a fake persona...but in the end we have to look in the mirror. I am finding that...the most difficult. Im afraid to tell my family how much I am suffering.

[Givingup in reply to Hidden]

You don't have much to lose by telling them I think. Either they'll try to understand or they won't be willing or able to. Which is very painful. For me I react very strongly to rejection and hurt and they don't understand my responses.

[Sprinkle1 in reply to Hidden]

I agree with Samyblue, we cannot control how we feel, and as most people do not experience these thoughts and feelings they do not understand and are often afraid. It is easier to deny the situation. I am going thru hell right now, and I find little or no support for my problem. And quite frankly they scare me to hell, I have been battling depression since young, now it has compounded with anxiety (fear) and we are playing pill roulette , which compounds my fear because of side effects. I would see if you can find a support group in your area, and a therapist who specializes in depression. Consider a psych Dr. who specializes in depression.Put you first, love you and know it is not your fault your neurotransmitters are out of whack, do not feel guilty, do what ever you can to entertain yourself, I like coloring books, knitting and non violent TV in small doses. I am here if you want to talk I need support too. I send you Love, Peace and Big Hugs. Sprinkle 1

[Givingup in reply to Sprinkle1]

Thank you. I'm sorry for what you're going through...

[chills1953]

I have had the same problems. Then one day my therapist asked to talk to my mother, who was a registered nurse. He met with her twice and after that I never had to explain anything to my mom. The rest of the family was clueless, except for the relatives my mom tried explaining things to. My father only accepted that my problems were real when I was awarded Disability benefits from Social Security. It was like I got the government seal of approval and it wasn't me just being lazy, self-centered, and feeling sorry for myself. He's still not completely convinced but at least I don't have to hear how I'm just a cry baby all the time.

Don't give up!

[Givingup in reply to chills1953]

I would like to have a therapist speak with my family. I'm working on it. Thanks.