Quote:
Originally Posted by OrangeMoira
Chris, I wanted to let you know that I can completely relate to your descriptions of your feelings about relating to other people. I could have written that. And, yes, I feel constantly watched.
About the hat wearing, lots of people with different types of anxiety have "safety behaviors," objects/rituals/techniques/ways of behaving that minimize anxious feelings in a situation that is triggering. Safety objects are not uncommon. Deep breathing techniques are even a safety behavior. So is leaving a party early or carrying around a water bottle. Lots of people have something they do--wearing the same hat does not seem that unusual to me.
I think I say this to everyone, but seriously GOOD for you for recognizing that you need to tackle this. I went five years where I was seriously cutting off everyone and doing less and less before I realized it was not normal. Until then, I kept rationalizing my behaviors and so I couldn't get better.
Did you ever meet with a psychiatrist? Sorry, I don't remember if you posted about that. I know this is a late response!
5000, welcome and great job posting. Are you currently getting any help from doctors or therapists? Lots of treatments revolve around exposure; is that something you've learned about yet? How is your social network right now? (I know that's a hard question to answer, so I'll admit I have no social network outside of my family! And I'm lucky to have any relationships with them!)
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Hey Orange,
Thank you for that. I say it a lot, but it helps having someone to relate to.
I've never thought about that, but you're right. It really bothers me though.. I have worn if for so long, and so often that if I don't wear it around anyone..the first thing they do is ask, "where's your beanie?" It has a cigarette burn in it, paint from work..it looks awful. I can't seem to wear another one because they don't cover enough of my face. I'm dumb, I don't know.
Thank you. 5 years is a long time.. I'm sorry to hear that. If it's not asking too much, how did you end up realizing it wasn't normal? I've put off getting help for as long as I can. I know it's not true, but I feel weak for not being able to cover it up well enough.
I don't think you did. Don't be sorry
it's fine. But, no, I haven't. I went to my appointment on the 3rd, and I was supposed to be set up with one then. I ended up getting there 2 minutes late and didn't get to sign in. She saw the people in the waiting room, and by the time she was done with them..she had to leave. So I rescheduled for the 11th.
Thank you for replying, and I hope everything is going good for you
,
Chris.