[DarkMagician]

There's not enough understanding people in this world. Nobody seems to care about empathy and stuff like that. How are people supposed to open up about things when they feel like they don't have anyone to talk to because most people are not very understanding? If you're gonna tell someone to talk about things and open up then doesn't it make sense that it should happen with someone who trys to be understanding with them rather than someone who judges them or criticizes them or even talks down to them? Or do you just think that people should just keep talking to people like this? I just don't get it. People aren't gonna want to talk about thier problems anymore if they can't trust you.

[sarahsweets]

Is this something that happened between you and a friend?

[Christmas cookie]

I always hope if I open up to someone they will be supportive. That's not always the case. If I feel unsure, I wait until I know them better. I agree it hurts when their response is rude etc

[LilyMop]

I have found that I had to keep trying to make connections. People make mistakes... some don’t care.... some do and will keep making an effort... I have also found I needed to really work on being my own friend. I usually feel abandoned at the times I most need someone and I think I am not being present for myself...

Have faith. Be present and advocate for yourself. Keep trying and I believe the right people will show up for you.

[RoxanneToto]

I feel similarly - it’s kind of sad that I’ve found more understanding people on the few forums I belong to than in real life, but it does show they’re still out there, even if I don’t know them in person. Some of my family are empathetic, but it feels like the more distantly related they are, the better, which is weird.
It is frustrating, though. Maybe a lot of the people who tell others to open up about their issues (not meaning anyone here) already have a decent friend/support circle and assume everyone else does, too?