Originally Posted by Rosalba

I very rarely make blanket statements, but I can confidently state that none of us, NONE of us, can claim a straightforward recovery. There have been times when I've felt I was starting at the beginning all over again, but this is actually part of the process. Please don't beat yourself up! In fact, quite the reverse - let yourself know that you're doing very well. It sounds as though you're bravely struggling with a situation openly acknowledged as highly stressful, and doing it on your own. Going for help when you need it is a sign of strength rather than weakness, and having few friends - but possibly a deeper connection with them - is normal. With someone like yourself, who has a long history of caring and giving, it can feel very uncomfortable to ask for support for yourself. I was scared of therapy in the beginning, fearing that it would show me up for even more of a problem than I already thought I was, but quickly realised that all the things which could be safely thrown overboard - guilt, allowing myself to be bullied and manipulated, persistent anxiety and constant pressure - were all HORRIBLE. My therapist was making suggestions along the lines of doing something nice for myself, purely for myself, every day. It gets easier with practice! We all do our best, depending on where we're at. Sometimes just getting out of bed can be a huge effort - and it's OK to congratulate ourselves when we do, and that's all that can manage. (((HUGE HUGS)))

Originally Posted by FindingMe2

Wow, I can really relate to your posts. So similar, it's scary. P.s. I just want to add that you seem very intelligent, very enlightened and very loving. I am positive that many see you the same! Also, I am feeling very unlikable lately which I think is creating a self fulfilling prophecy. Does that make sense to anyone?