Topic Tuesday // How do you support yourself through the festive season // Tues 11 Dec, 7pm AEDT

[Jumpingcactus]

@BlueBay I agree! This man was amazing! After I got off the phone to him, I thought to myself how much better my life would be if he was by my side 24/7 to guide me in the right path. He told me things I needed to hear . I told him if he was sitting beside me I would have given him the best hug because he truly was brilliant.

[Dave1977]

It’s an interesting idea and I’ll have to think of ways to plan around these types of questions, but normally it’s those questions from family or close friends who already know I’ve been unwell, so when they ask I have to wonder why

[Jumpingcactus]

@Dave1977 Your not alone, I feel the same way.

[utopia]

As much as Christmas day brings increased anxiety,  I'd rather go to the lunch and try to participate and hope some of their Christmas joy rubs off onto me.  Better than sitting home alone - as then my depression will rear its ugly head 

[BlueBay]

@Robert_Lifeline Boundaries are really hard. I’m a people pleaser snd struggle to myself first. 

[Former-Member]

Alrighty Question 3!

Often, around this time of year we lose access to both our professional and personal supports which are our usual go-to’s throughout the year. In addition, social media can have us comparing our festive season to others - further highlighting our pain. The awesome news is there ARE ways to shift this perception and enjoy a Christmas full of self-love and acceptance.  

What are some of your own self-care distractions you find helpful during the holiday season?

[Robert_Lifeline]

@Dave1977

Yes, it seems insensitive, doesn't it? I wonder if it is about the 'status quo' and not really thinking about the impact on you of what they are saying and asking. Social niceties perhaps. I am certainly not implying that you should take responsibility for others' insensitivity or whatever we might call it, but what would it be link to ponder on why people behave this way, in terms of depersonalising it?

[BlueBay]

@Former-Member@Robert_Lifeline I don’t see my psychologist now until end of January. Same as my psych. 

I already feel alone. 

[Dave1977]

I’m usually fine with it, and can either deflect or answer as much or as little as I feel like. Unfortunately it’s late that night when I’m lying in bed sleepless and mind racing, ruminating about the day, dissecting every interaction, second guessing myself and my choices, castigating myself.

[Former-Member]

It's a real test in self-resilience isn't it @BlueBay I hear you. You are not alone in the feeling of aloneness Sending love.