Oh wow... I get that one too. Just think happy thoughts. Tears flow when I hear that.... wishing and wishing they could just get that it isn't that simple. And if it is really that simple then I must really be a hopeless loser because it isn't that simple for me. But they can't really get it unless they experience it themselves and I would never wish that on anyone.

I have come to hate that word 'just'. I could write a book of all the 'just' statements I have heard. I try not to get upset about it because I know they are trying to help. I know it breaks their heart to see me like this. They know who I used to be before this last major crash 5 years ago that brought on the rapid cycling that really plays havok on everything.

Most of my life I had long episodes of mania or depression with good long periods of relative normal so it was easier to cope with the switch. The drama wasn't ripe everyday like it is now. I am on such a steady decline as more and more the everyday things become harder and harder to do that it is noticable to people and they can't help but want to say something to 'cheer' me up. They miss me being active and involved and hate to see me so isolated.

The latest one people have started to say when I am trying to explain how I am have difficulty coping and can't do this or that outing or activity that they want me to participate in is 'everybody feels that way sometimes. You are not unique that way' then of course the usual 'just come... you will feel better if you are around people... it will be good for you to get out.....' Again all I can think is if that is true then I am a hopeless loser because I can't cope with it day in and day out. Usually the conversation is on the phone so they don't see me cry and before it is obvious in my voice I find a way to say good bye. 'Thanks I will try' and then fall apart from the lonlienss of it all. I even try to take their advice sometimes but I am learning the hard way to trust my own judgement. If I am not up to engaging then I give myself permission not to bit off too much. Forcing it just makes things worse. They of course don't get that. Many have given up on me or get mad at me. Its no fun.