(((Setso)))

You're up against some big challenges, no doubt.

It is hard to care for aging parents; go through our own personal struggles; and feel as though we don't have much more happiness ahead of us. I can relate in many ways.

I'm no spring chicken myself ~ I'm 41 y.o and have been struggling for almost all of my life. But there have been some positive experiences in with my misery as well. I had 2 daughters when I was married, they're now ages 10 and 7. Changing so fast! Just when I think that my girls don't care at all about me, they do something very sweet and thoughtful for me. Those little things keep me going. It is so sweet!

Other positive experiences include enjoying a sunset or sunrise, or a long walk outdoors ~ I LOVE nature!! Recalling other positive experiences helps too, Looking at pictures of me holding up a big fish that I caught, or ticket stubs from my favorite baseball game I ever attended, soft and smooth rocks, relaxing music CD's, etc. They help me through the very dark times.

Personally, chat rooms never help me, because I can't keep up with the speed at which they move. But, some people gain a lot of emotional support through them! I think that it helps to talk about your problems somewhat, just don't focus on them 24/7. Because that only brings us down further. Oh yeah ~ another tip...I also avoid the news 100%! I can't handle the depressing stories out there. It brings me down further every time a story catches my eye or ear & before I know it, I'm significantly worse.

Gentle hugs to you ~ take care!