What can solve this?

I really need help with this. Recently as stupid as I know it is I’m feeling like I’m a weak person because of this anxiety and how long it’s been going on (one year, 21 years old) I know it’s stupid but I feel like when people say I’m strong it’s a white lie that people tell weak people to make them feel better same as when someone says you’re good at something or your bright or even attractive is because they have to say it or else they’re just being a bad person. I don’t know how to not think this way or why? Any help?

[mysterymuse]

People aren't lying to you when they tell you this. They're telling you that you're strong because they believe that to be true! You ARE strong, but your mental illness tells you that you're not. It's so difficult to hear lies from your own brain, but that's what they are - lies. Try to be gentle with yourself when you feel this way. There is no time limit on anxiety, unfortunately. Instead of saying that you are weak for feeling anxious for over a year, try remembering how strong you are for dealing with anxiety for over a year and still being here!

[hypercat54]

Well if you are weak then so are all of us, and millions of other people. I assure you I am not weak! x

[Hidden in reply to hypercat54]

Apologise I should of clarified that it’s a thought I don’t believe at all but if just seems to enter my mind a lot

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Obviously I don’t think anyone on here is weak at all

[Carmencp]

So I am going to let you know, we have all felt this way. I believe anyone that has this is very strong. Life is hard enough when you dont have anxiety. My suggestion is to see a therapist asap if you havent seen one. I know that if I had instead of being ashamed of admitting I had a problem i would be in a better place now. Have a good day.

[Hidden in reply to Carmencp]

Thank you for your reply I’m already in therapy thankfully ❤️

[Hidden]

I have had the same reaction. I think, oftentimes people say that because they have some understanding of the illness and what a weight you are carrying with it. So your soul is strong, your spirit is strong.

What has helped me counterbalance the disbelief I have to accepting such remarks as the truth is to try to watch my thinking when a negative,self-defeating reaction blows in. I try to hold on to it, question it, reframe my role in the memory if necessary. I find that my thinking can get a little distorted, people aren't just being pollyannas.

I wish you well.

Greta

[HeathersWellness]

Hi and welcome to the Anxiety and Depression Support Group! You've come to a place where lots of people may be feeling weak or incapable of dealing correctly with their anxiety. I'd like to encourage you to see your anxiety as a signal of something that is going on inside but also as something that is treatable if not curable. I like to view anything we deem as a weakness as an opportunity to bring transformation to our lives and the lives of other people. As someone who struggles with chronic health conditions, this is a constant goal. I love this quote from the Bible, one of my favorite books, which reads: "For when I am weak, then I am strong." Keeping this focus makes all the difference!

Thank you for your transparency and I hope you will be encouraged not to give into worry or despair as you deal with your anxiety. Trusting and praying that things will get better for you soon!

[marheart]

There comes that old question about telling the truth. We don't know what to say when confronted with someone who isn't well. Maybe you really are strong in their eyes.

My neighbor has been thru 10 yrs. of unbelievable surgeries and procedures for Cancer. I admire her strength. She keeps going for her kids.

She doesn't feel strong because the anxiety and Cancer make her weaker than is "normal".

[foxglove_pnw]

I hear the same thing from people !

Specially when I have had a panic attack in public and I go back to the same place where it happened !

People say I am strong because even though I am freaking out , having chest pains and falling apart I am still out there doing things that brings me joy !

People say I am strong because I show people my weak side .

I can assure you when people say that is because you are doing things that others would have a hard time doing ! ❤️