You are worthwhile and you are loved.

[Matthew28]

I keep trying to tell myself that because none of my friends and family say it and I am very much a need validation sort of person to counter my inner critical voice.

Another thing I say, The ones that matter to you may not feel the need to say it, or they might be saying it in their own way but you aren’t processing it. (5 Lang of love issue, etc). So I do think this all happens in my head, that I beat myself up, others may be showing love in their own way and I just don’t know it. But I still feel like an unloved, worthless, person. So I keep fighting it.

You are worthwhile and you are loved.

[Catsamaze ADAA Volunteer]

Hi Matthew. It’s really nice how you end your post, when you tell us that “You are worthwhile and you are loved.” Change “you are” to “I am” and that’s also a true statement. Loving yourself can sound selfish but it’s actually a gift not only to you but to everyone in your life. When people sense that you love yourself they will be far more open about expressing how much they love and care about you. I can’t tell you why. But try it out and let us know how it goes....

[Matthew28 in reply to Catsamaze]

Thank you. I am working on trying to love myself. It is hard for me to do but I am two sessions into therapy now (first time in my life) and feel good that it may help me improve.

[greenmann]

Matthew28. Have you thought about getting a pet like a dog? They really love you unconditionally. I have always wanted to have a dog but always feared for their death and the unbearable emotions that come with it. But since I have found my dog (a rescue) a few years back, my life has changed!

[Matthew28 in reply to greenmann]

Yes I have thought about how a dog would be good for me and want one but my wife is allergic so it is complicated. I haven't seen it working out to do so. I know she could take an antihistamine everyday, but I don't want her to do that on my account. Thanks for the suggestion.