Why I came here

[ray0]

I had a bad day yesterday, and I want to be out of my old rut that I had been stuck in. When I am stressed out, I go to Reddit and look for someone to talk to only to be caught by trolls/abusers there. I am looking for a community full of sincere people where I can post to vent.

[Nathalie99 Partner]

Hi kay9387261,

Welcome to the community.

I'm sorry you have been in a bad place and I understand wanting to get unstuck.

Do you have any other coping mechanisms that could help when things get really tough?

I sometimes need more than one coping strategy in case one doesn't work.

[ray0 in reply to Nathalie99]

Yes, but I have several unhealthy coping mechanisms, reading Hollywood gossip online, binge-eating, net-suring and all. I hope to make online friends to be in touch so that I won't fall for negative coping mechanisms. I've never had friends and don't know how to make one, tho. Thank you for your kind reply.

[Nathalie99 Partner in reply to ray0]

Having 'unhealthy' coping mechanisms is very common in trauma survivors, it can be something that initially protects us and helps us survive, Ray.

It is understandable and it is going to take time and having self compassion and understanding why can be a start.

It's great that you are reaching out to friends. Everyone has different things that help us so it's really good you are finding ways that help you cope better and give you strength through the difficult times...

[ray0 in reply to Nathalie99]

Thank you for your encouragement. Currently, many things are not working for me. I don't want to do anything right now. I'm feeling bummed out. There seems to be no exit.

But coming here and finding someone's reply to my post is a saving grace. I've never opened up to anyone in my life. My family used to shut me up when I tried to talk about my honest feelings and opinions. So it's great to find you on here and open up to you.

[BrainIsFull]

Hi Kay! Good job for trying something different since your other strategy hasn't been helping. 💚

[ray0 in reply to BrainIsFull]

Thank you for your approval, telling me I'm doing the right thing. That's what I needed.

[BrainIsFull in reply to ray0]

Oh... I just realized that it says "Ray" and not "Kay". 🤦🏼‍♀️😬

[ray0 in reply to BrainIsFull]

Oh I've just changed my username for security reasons.