What do I do now?

So I have been eating healthy, and exercising every couple of days, I finished the CBT program. I go outside more frequently now than before. I organize my house and life more. I do the things I'm suppose to do but now what? Is something suppose to change? Am I suppose to feel something? I don't get it. Does that mean I am already happy?

[Chris76]

I think you may have answered your own question as some things have changed for you, as you say, you are eating healthy, exercising more and you go outside more frequently.

Hopefully this is making you feel a little better and you feel happier? Do you at present? I don't think you can measure happiness as what makes someone happy may not make somebody else happy.

I'm sorry if this isn't great advice but I'd thought I'd help if I could x

[Hidden]

Hi well done for taking what steps you can to help yourself. Happiness tends to come in small bites rather than a state of being. Often in life you have to be content with small things like a lovely sunny day, a chat with a friend, doing a hobby you enjoy etc. Lots of small things together can change your life to a significant degree and lead to the big changes. But not all changes are good so some things will make you happier and some won't. That is life.

I think peace of mind is more important, to be true to yourself and to others and to live the life you are given. Often in my life all I have been able to do is cope, and carry on with things I have to do. I find a certain satisfaction in that - proud just to be able to carry on and hope things will improve one day.

Just carry on with looking after yourself and liking yourself and you never know what is in your future. Keep hope alive.

Bev x

[21esme]

Hiya,

I think it is a way of working to a gradual type of calmness or even contentment.

I've been hoping for some point where everything you are doing suddenly makes you 'well' but I don't think it works that way unfortunately. I think you have to just keep on working on all the elements to stay okay not necessarily happy. Happiness is not a permanent state - It is part of a cycle of how we feel, happy,sad, angry, etc. It is hard work and I've had times where I just think is this worth it. A year ago I wouldn't have left my house - I ended up having 10 months off work. Now I can get out, relatively easily. I still don't love large crowds but I can go shopping, get to work, meet new people, go to restaurants, the hairdressers etc.

I still feel a bit empty but at least I'm not crying for 4 hours a day. My therapist noticed I had no joy in my life and that was pretty true. I would love to be happy but I just want to be okay and try and notice those moments when I feel some happiness.

Just work on what you are doing, do things you think you enjoy and notice your feelings, emotions, moods when you are doing things. I think it is baby steps and just being present in what you are doing.

Well done for all that hard work. You deserve it and are worth the effort,

Sarah x

[Hidden in reply to 21esme]

Great reply Sarah. bev x

[21esme in reply to Hidden]

Bev, I thought your reply was excellent. Really summed up how we feel.

X to you and Breezy,

Sarah

[Hidden]

Thanks everyone for all the help and support. Being contempt is fine as well for me too. I hope everyone has a wonderful day today.