Traumatic day

[Gift-]

Well i finally made it to a headway meeting 🎉🎉 something I’ve been so eagerly anticipating and looking forward to( or so you would think) don’t get me wrong, the people were ever so friendly and welcoming, I was the problem , I got so upset, and overwhelmed to the point I was crying and wanted to leave so it was about a ten minute/ fifteen minute excursion and I don’t even now why. I’ve never felt like it before and hope I don’t ever again. I guess it’s unfair of me to think that other people will understand me when I barely understand myself. And I don’t want to become someone that is ungrateful because I have a lot… like the fact that I got up this morning.. to be grateful for.

[ShareeRose]

oh bless you Gift-. I had the same reaction back in June I didn’t leave only because my Aunty had taken the time to pick me up from home and get me to the meet-up. I was upset and sat very quietly in shock and sadness because I was only 4 months post surgery. The group were absolutely wonderful, very welcoming and kind. People I sat next to were lovely and kind and showed that life and living is achievable. I did find it more of a social club for hobbies as everyone seemed to be past working age and I was looking for that kind of guidance about a return to working life but nonetheless it was a relief to be amongst people who understood my invisible disability and showed me hope. They must think I didn’t like them because each of the last 3 meet-ups I’ve unfortunately been in hospital for treatment but I am determined to go to the next one. Maybe you could give it another try and tell yourself it’s okay to cry and you will be with people who understand.

Best of luck sweetheart x

[Rosebud66]

maybe try again now you know it’s overwhelming, and I think it’s okay that headway see your feelings. I cried every time someone was kind. If it was a group it’s hard because your confidence is low… you’re facing huge changes and we all understand that. Sending you a hug and try again another day. Be kind to yourself x

[Nafnaf87]

Good morning Gift

You did the hardest part pushing yourself out from behind your own front door into the public world - WELL DONE, that wasn't easy.

I can only speak for my own Headway group here in North Wales. It is a non-judgemental place where you can be yourself and nothing goes outside the walls of the room. My situation was a bit strange, probably still is, so I didn't bother with Headway for 21 years then all hell broke loose in my life and Covid happened. Rosemary helped me as best she could through Covid when we were not allowed near each other. I went to that first meeting post-post-Covid and all I wanted to do was leave. That happened again and again and again but knowing the best thing I could do was stick to it, sitting at home frightened behind my own front door is no fun.

4 years on it is easier but not easy. We are having an Open Day October 15 and Rosemary has asked me to say a few words to whoever turns up. I've done some prep but, to be honest, I'm bricking it. Doesn't matter, I will do it on the basis if I don't it is ME that misses out. If you don't you won't is one of my mottos nowadays.

It is so easy to stay behind our own door in our own circle. Problem is as that circle tightens to only us we start spinning faster and faster, so fast we can't see the outside world. I think your local Headway is a place where you can start to break out.

Best wishes

Michael

[Nemo24]

You were in best place as people there would understand and probably without you having to explain in depth. Did you talk to anyone about how you were feeling? I find it scarey going somewhere new for first time. It probably took more out of you too. Please go again.

[Gift- in reply to Nemo24]

Thank you, yess I spoke with one of the volunteers or rather she was speaking and I was crying. I will try it again as soon as I can. Thank you for your words of encouragement. Stay safe 🙂