Re: Feeling caged up

@creative_writer Oh no you are having a bad time of it. Hang in there and try to eat tonight.

GP appt went well she gave me the stop smoking tablets script. Didn’t ask about a mental health plan and thinking it would be better to ask my psychiatrist for one as my GP rejected my request for one when I asked for it a few years ago.

Re: Feeling caged up

@GezzaP it’s hard to get out of the spiral.

Glad to hear you were able to get the script. Hopefully she agrees once the psychiatrist provides a letter.

Re: Feeling caged up

Hello lovely, here with you. @creative_writer 💛

I am so sorry that things are feeling this overwhelming, please know that you are not alone. 

I am glad to know you have safety strategies to turn to, but I am worried about the level of distress you are experiencing. I can also see you have mentioned suicidal thoughts and ideation, and I am sure this is a lot to hold right now. Can you tell me if you're in a position to call Lifeline (13 11 14) or Suicide Callback Service (1300 659 467)? Or even ListenWell for some brief counselling and support? They are open until 9pm (1300 111 500). Please let me know your plans. 

I am also happy to safety plan with you, we're in this together. 🥰

Re: Feeling caged up

@creative_writer I hope you can get out of the spiral.

I think I need the support of a psychologist to stop smoking and manage my bipolar.

Re: Feeling caged up

Hey @GezzaP

How you feeling?

Seeing a psychologist is such a wonderful idea, they really would help with both of these things. 

Would you prefer in person or online? 💛

Re: Feeling caged up

@AuntGlow I think I’d like to try in person if I can get to one that is nearby.  I don’t like to drive much anymore-I get nervous as I lost all my confidence after I caused an accident.
I’m ok today. Cut down on the smokes again today. Getting stop smoking tablets tomorrow so that’ll give me a reason to go out. Will go to supermarket as well. Gets me out of the house.

Re: Feeling caged up

@AuntGlow I think I’ll see how I go, there is still some self care I want to try first. Having said that, I did reach out to a helpline today. I’ve been reaching out more lately, feel sort of guilty. I’m also having lower right abdomen pain which isn’t helping. Not sure if it’s a female issue or gut issue, or both.

@GezzaP psych can be amazing when you want to develop healthier coping strategies.

Re: Feeling caged up

@creative_writer Oh I’ll try to find a psych nearby. I found some already.

Hope your pain goes away.

Re: Feeling caged up

I understand why guilt might be coming up for you here, but please know it's a good thing you're reaching out when you need it - that is exactly what these services are there for, so please utilise them - your safety is paramount. @creative_writer 💛

What self-care do you plan to do tonight?

And ouch, I am sure that is very uncomfortable... I get the sense some self-soothing will be helpful. Please keep me updated and let me know if anything changes for you, okay?

Re: Feeling caged up

I echo @AuntGlow  advice @creative_writer  and hope things improve  for you.