Thanks Seesaw! Hugs.

Your suggestions are very good ones. I like the notion of stating upfront that I don’t need advice yet am just informing and talking about what’s going on. These two are very good friends of mine. We have a long history and a lot of great memories. I think they believe that since I’ve had mental health issues, that it means I cannot handle life’s challenges and obstacles. Especially since I had been hospitalized five years ago. I think they assume I must be inept to handle things myself.

I will be gentle. My tendency is to react out of frustration and anger because of the assumptions. But I really like your suggestion of stating it upfront so it’s clear from the start.

That’s pretty amazing that you and your friend are working out how best to support one another. And that social media guy about your bike accident? Ridiculous! Who asked him for his opinions on what you did wrong? People never cease to amaze me.