Alexandra,

I have much trouble with what qualifies as "distress". To me ---it's the loss of one's basic needs: physical/emotional safety, shelter, food, money to pay for basic needs and health of yourself or loved one.
This might be narrow minded..... but a bush getting aphids or losing a text book or momentarily misplacing ones keys-- those things aren't regarded as "distress" to me. To someone else it may be a legitimate reason to cry wolf-- but then, I- personally will learn not to listen as they are not basic needs.

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And knowing 'rationally' what one *should* do and having ones feelings follow suit can be two quite seperate things.

</div></font></blockquote><font class="post"> AAhhh yes, the "knowing" and then the "feeling" can often be very seperate things for sure!!!! I believe that is my biggest struggle-- getting those two together!!

I am hurting... but not to the degree that I am most of the time. Gee, I think I've made about 8 posts today-- that is the most I've done in one day....... since about last April-- my posting so much is an indication that I'm doing better at the moment. Thanks for asking though-- that was kind of you.

I mostly was asking abstractly.....

I'm not to the point yet where I can reach out on the "general" forum for support!! (so many read this forum!!!) Sheesh...... that would send me into isolation for a long time!! ( would feel absolutely horrible for expressing negative emotions-- considering so many would be reading)

Thanks for your reply

mandy