I did not attend the family gathering unfortunately since I have anxiety inside indoor spaces with groups of people, and we have COVID and flu going around. My concern with COVID is that some people get long term symptoms like chronic fatigue, loss of smell or taste, and a few others. So it just still freaks me out because I take care of an elderly person as well.
Anyways my sisters and brother-in-law came by to bring gifts. It was nice to see them, I did give them hugs. But we stayed outdoors for safety. I am much less anxious outside because it is less risky.
And then I will make some waffles, eggs, and ham tonight for dinner. Maybe watch a movie.
Merry Christmas to everyone on these forums. As you can see, mine was pretty basic but still good.
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davidthecoder
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Glad your day went well. Unfortunately my husband and I have contracted Covid. First time for us. It's not too terrible, although I am very anxious about it 😬 I just hope we get well soon. Like you I worry about long term effects. But we will power through! Hope you have a happy new year!
Luckily the risk of long term complications is significantly lower now. And I am hopeful that the doctors and scientists will maybe find a treatment for Long COVID in 2024.
Wishing you a speedy recovery. Most do end up being fine. Due to my anxiety, I just tend to fear I will get unlucky, even if the odds are more in my favor overall.
I'm the Queen of feeling unlucky! Lol If it's going to happen, it will happen to me! But seriously, thank you for the well wishes and I am very hopeful we will mend without complications. Planning to start 2024 healthy!
Basic Christmas was still pretty good. I only had a fairly minor anxiety wave earlier today. Besides that, not bad.
I think I will be able to re-integrate with the rest of the family next year. I found a really good therapist but we are only on our 6th meeting so far. I plan on sticking it out with him long term and it is good to have a professional on my side now. The past two weren't the right fit for me.
I totally agree with you at that time it was the right thing to do. Meeting your family outside lessened your anxiety and I believe you feel content with for you a good but a basic Christmas.
I’m intrigued by your comment that this Christmas was better than the last one! 😂
I’ve only discovered this forum quite recently but I am enjoying it. I’m in a manic state of my bipolar at the present time, so please take this into account when reading my posts and replies. I wouldn’t like to upset anyone.
My Christmas has been very traumatic.
Since 30th November I’ve been experiencing dental issues. I’ve had an abscess, I’m on 4th course of continuous antibiotics. I’ve had one extraction with stitches inserted plus two temporary fillings.
I’m in a relative’s home, sleeping downstairs on the settee to allow my husband the chance of a good sleep without me disturbing him.
Since 21st my husband has called 999 twice
1st resulted in emergency dental treatment at dental hospital the next day. Much relief but ongoing problems and severe pain kept at bay by painkillers. The stitches after the extraction became infected so were removed. Huge ulcer discovered.
2nd has resulted in being given strong pain killers by a hospital doctor. I have to register as a temporary patient with any doctor’s practice on 27th.
I need an urgent review of my medication. I’m suspecting Venlafaxine is causing issues but the out of hours doctor which the paramedics phoned is not prepared to take action until someone can access my medical history.
Things are much worse because it’s Christmas!
My Christmas dinner was yogurt, mashed banana and ice cream, washed down with a saline rinse and iced water to drink.
It’s a good job I’m not in one of my low moods; I think I may have topped myself! 🤣
I’m hoping and praying for relief from my physical issues asap. 2024 can surely only get better!
This has been a very long winded reply but I think you have made sensible decisions.
Wishing you a Happy New Year, with progress for your mental issues. Take care and believe in yourself.
My father that I take care of also has bipolar disorder. Luckily his medication (Seroquel) works pretty well for it. It took a lot of trial and error to find the right meds for him though.
Also, I've got dental issues as well. I cracked a tooth years ago and due to my anxiety I haven't gotten it addressed...I am so scared. Luckily I have insurance now but for awhile I didn't. I brush multiple times per day + use sanitizing mouthwash, but I still have bacteria in there. I know that tooth is going to get pulled. Maybe another one also...so when you mentioned dental problems, I am in a similar position here. It sounds like you have taken the steps to get yours taken care. I will need to get over this fear and just do it.
Last year, I didn't really see anyone. People got me these great gifts, but I didn't open them. I am going to open last years gifts tomorrow. I talked to my therapist about it and he did encourage me to open them up.
I'm really glad you are here in the group. While this Christmas might not have been the greatest, I do hope that 2024 will be better.
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I appreciate the support.
I don't fit in, even at Christmas
I've ruined Christmas.
Merry Christmas everyone
Nervous about flying out of O'Hare this Christmas alone.
Sickening Christmas 
