I'm trying

It's frusting when you try to go places for help... and you only seem to slide worse. I came here yesterday as a new member. Got off to a rocky start but finally got in the groove. I start posting... visiting chat... trying to offer help and consolation to others...and I just start sliding..

Starting to remember everything about the past. Trying to figure out what to do with my Future...while still trying to live in the now and take care of the things in my life currently. You can only get pulled so far before that great little happy manic facade comes right back down.

hey just wanted to let you know when we were talking in chat yesterday you helped me out by being able to identify with the bipolar best chat since ive been here! everything will be ok. thanks for the talk yesterday!

rru96 - it is soooo frustrating to ask for help and receive more problems. This forum does bring up a lot of painful things for people, but the people here are really supportive.

Watch for the trigger icon on a post, as that let's you know that the post may include painful stuff. That way you can monitor whether you are feeling strong enough to deal with possible triggers. I sometimes feel myself sliding down due to reading what others posted, but I have to remind myself that it isn't ME they are talking about. I don't have to jump on their emotions and make them mine.

I wouldn't give up the forum for anything. These people have saved my life just by being there and listening. I'm sorry that you are having a hard time. We are here for you. ((((RRU96))))

Hi RRU96

Remember that you are the number one priority. YOu need to take care of yourself first. Don't feel that you have to help people if you are not in a good place yourself. It takes time getting used to the boards and chats so don't rush yourself.

Thanks guys. I am familiar with the trigger icon. For some reason though, its hard to not help. I know I need to take care of me first, but helping someone through a difficult time that I can relate with, or through a tough moment in general, is very comforting. I have always been a worrier and that shoulder to lean on. When I help someone.... it gives me personal satisfaction.

Alot of this stemmed from a bad experience in chat last night. I had some problems with an individual, but with the help of another board member, ((((jballiet35)))) ... I was able to get some things worked out. With so many things on my plate right now, what was said in chat just added fuel to the fire. Regardless, today is a new day

RRU96 - yep, I know. It does feel good to help someone else, but you have to take care of you first. I'm sorry you had a bad experience in chat, but hey - you have a great attitude - today is a new day!

I haven't done the chat here...I like the boards where I can think of what I want to say, on chat I often feel rushed. I might check it out sometime though...

I do hope that you will have more positive than negative experiences here; I came here after trying some other groups and this one does have a lot less drama! Take care of YOU first because:

Thanks everyone. It is getting more positive by the day... As for the chat, it isnt for everyone. It comes natural to me since I met my wife like that. It is nice because in those times where maybe some of my obsessive tendencies come out.. it gives me a chance for INSTANT help. Not refreshing the page to see if anyone has commented on a post I am dealing with.