I have been on this site on and off for a few years now. It really does help a lot, especially this forum.
I signed up for a social anxiety course that starts in Sept, which I am looking forward to. And, I am taking advantage of free counselling offered through my insurance. Both are huge steps forward.
All this is great except now I am coming to realize how alone I truly am. I recently read Geneen Roth's When Food is Love where she explains that a lot of overeating has to do with feeling lonely and not having the right coping skills. I agree. I also realized that food has become intimacy too. I struggle with life in general and have used food to soothe and celebrate myself.
This is also a step forward but now I realize how very much alone I am. Without food to "love" me what do I have? I am married but my husband does not support me emotionally. I guess I never realized that until last night when I asked him to meditate with me for 5 mins. I am going through withdrawal from Amitryptaline which I have been on for over 10 years. I usually take it at night so I am struggling with falling asleep. He refused. He just said, "Nope, this isn't for me" and stood up to leave. This is the first time in ages I have asked him for help and he refused. I am not worth 5 mins.
How do I get over this heart break? I see my life stretch before me and I don't see things getting any better. I have never experienced unconditional love, and I yearn to be loved. My relationship with my family was the same. Emotions were ridiculed and we were told to take care of ourselves. My parents did not express love easily and I have forgiven them for that as they were raised in the same way. I had hoped that when I met my husband he would love me. But I was wrong. Yes, he loves me, but not unconditionally. I always knew that I cared for him more than he cared for me but I guess last night it really hit home. I have cared for him, encouraged him, helped him, cheered him up always. I have always put myself last. First him and our daughter, then other things, than me. I guess I only have myself to blame.
When you make yourself a doormat for many years, don't be surprised when you get stepped on.
I am not sure where this leaves me with my anxiety, panic and depression. I guess I just don't see a lot of hope.
I guess I want others to understand how dangerous it can be when you look to others to care for you. That other person can never fulfill your needs as they are usually busy fulfilling their own. People can be very selfish but I guess I was also being selfish when I asked my husband for love. No matter what we can never know what is in another persons mind.
So maybe this is a good thing? Maybe now I have realized that I need to take care of myself. That, ultimately, we are all alone.
The question is, am I worth fighting for?
Panic, anxiety and depression stink. I hope your days are all better than mine are right now. Hug those people that love you, you have no idea how lucky you are to have them in your life.
Kendra