Hello,
It’s been a week since I’ve joined this community and it’s taken me as long to share how I’m really feeling. Most days I’m okay as long as I stay on my meds, and limit exposure to stressors. I’m often conflicted because on the surface I have so much to be greatful for yet I continue to feel this weight on my shoulders. I was diagnosed with depression a few years ago but I also experience quite a bit of anxiety. It’s like they take turns. I m hesitant to talk to my husband or adult children because I know they can’t make this go away, nor do I want them feeling sorry for me , or worse yet they see me as being weak. Over the past few months I’ve been spending most of my time at home trying to avoid people because I’m tired of fake smiling and pretending that I’m okay, because I’m not. I struggle with accepting who I am now compared to who I was before a failed 18year marriage with an ex who I later learned is a narcissist that was unfaithful, emotionally abusive, and a substance abuser. Most days I feel embarrassed, defeated, and/or afraid with no one to talk to because I suck at sustaining friendships. I’m really glad I found this site, thanks for listening.