I am sorry

I feel responsible for bringing people on the board down. If I triggered anyone, I am sorry.

You have no reason to feel responsible for how others react to what you say or do. You've always added the trigger icon when needed. You've done nothing wrong that I can see.

You are fine by me. What made you feel this way?

No worries, BNLsMOM!!! Like grizmom said, you've always used the trigger icon whenever it's appropriate -- that's what it's there for. Everyone knows their own triggers the best and it's up to each individual to decide if they're feeling up to handling certain things at a given time (whether is be triggering or just "bringing them down"). The trigger icon lets them know there's something potentially there, and it's up to them to avoid it. You have done your part.

You know, as far as the thought of "bringing people down" goes...it personally makes me feel *more* isolated, freakish and hopeless when someone will *only* go with the upbeat. Sometimes our reality is just plain _not_ like that, and it makes me feel like I can't really say anything, because at that moment in time, I can't wrap my head around it at all. It's like I'm not being heard. Or that the pain is kind of dismissed, or at least brushed aside, to "keep everyone happy", you know? That's just not real. We spend enough time having to wear a mask, without having to do it with people who actually do understand. (That said, I struggle bigtime with the worry of "bringing people down", so this is a reminder to myself as well. How come it's so much easier to understand this with others than with ourselves?!)

Let's face it.... if we simply *couldn't* post at all about things that might trigger or upset, our conversations would certainly be diminished in depth. Sometimes we've just got to get it out there and know we're not alone.

(((BNLsMom))) - I think you're fine too. This is a mental health site and sometimes members have to share sad feelings - so it's okay. Someone can choose not to read a post and that's a risk we take. Don't feel bad.

I'm new to all this, what makes something trigger worthy????

(I am being serious - I'm a bit slow with all the terms)

Blackpup - you know what situations can personally make you feel down. If you are discussing anything that you think may affect someone else, especially wrt to a negative mood swing, you put a trigger warning up. For some people, they cannot talk about SI, so topics like this should ALWAYS have a trigger icon. Basically sensitive issues.

BNLsMOM - hey there - we all get down every now and again, but the whole purpose of this board is to support each other. Hang in there!!

You have not brought me down that's for sure. Don't ever blame yourself for something you have no control over! We all want to know how you are doing. The good times and the bad.

Innerzone.......you said exactly what I've been feeling. I sort of keep editing myself in my head, and I know that this is the site I've been looking for to actually get my feelings validated. I may have almost already gone to pretty much my worst place, but I know I'm still holding back. No-one could bring me down.......sharing it all is what works best for me......sounds like a lot of others too.

That being said, could someone please explain where the "trigger" thing is? I'm always afraid to leave the site, while in progress, because I'm not sure I'll get myself back here......

Never brought me down, either. What is this "trigger" dealie? And how come u guys can put up cute smileys?

(((BNLsMOM)))

The beauty and value of this site is that we can share openly. The good and the bad. The mask we have to show the world can come off when we are here. I wouldn't change that for anything.

Please don't feel bad for sharing, you need and deserve to be heard and supported. The trigger icon is the appropriate tool to let others know that the content may be upsetting. We each have to take responsibility for what we choose to read and respond to.

Be well and keep posting honestly. Sending you positive thoughts and admiration for your ability to post honestly. I'm sure you have helped someone.

i don't know about the trigger icon either...
i cannot seem to decide which is which...
off balance again...

For those that asked, the trigger icon is below where you create your post. It says: You may choose an icon for your message from the following list: Then you click in the circle next to the trigger icon (the red circle with an x in it; top of the second column).

The smilies are over on your right after you click on add reply. ----->

No worries! It is important to post what you feel. You are being honest about your experiences and I appreciate that.

No worries BNLsMOM, reading about experiences we have here gives me a sense of being connected with you guys...does not make me feel so alone.

(((BNLsMOM))) how are you today?? thinking about you and sending well wishes your way!