[crazylife]

I'm at a point right now i'm struggling to get through the day, i was wandering if hanging about with someone else in the same mood and struggling too would put to much on me and push me to far? I've heard that and i feel that if i were to be around this person to much we would end up feeding off each others moods and getting worse but how would i break this to her? I'm just trying to get better and protect myself in the long run.

[Rohag]

Hello & Welcome, Crazylife! "Catching others' emotions or feelings" is a known phenomenon, but some people are more susceptible to it than others. Depending on how susceptible you are to your friend's moods, you may find it valuable to modify your interactions. Is this something you could discuss with your friend without tension or fear?

[Gently1]

Yes, it can happen and it is ok to limit contact as needed.
One time I phoned a friend and asked if she could meet for coffee, she said yes and we talked a little longer then I had to say, i can't go now I am too tired.

She gets off the phone, here husband askes who was that?
she said G! whe just invited me for coffee and then cancelled. This amused them.

In the long run it is better to miss a few coffee dates and conversations to use what energy you have for healing.
Take care.
g

[madisgram]

WELCOME TO PC. when i feel i am struggling i try to get out of myself and help someone else. this may do the same for you. i agree with others-i'd limit how much time i spend with someone who's down too. it may create too much negativity in both of you. spending some time with some upbeat friends helps even if over the phone. taking walks and giving your mind a break, etc.
in my own experience my focusing so much on myself can bring me down when i feel bogged down anyway. takes up too much mental energy. we all need a refresher and often it helps us crystalize what we need to do re concerns we have.

[Leed]

I agree with Madisgram -- I've found that if I'm with my sister too much (who is very depressed!) then I end up feeling horrible!! Both of us are being treated for depression, but I seem to have more luck than she does with my medication.

We have to protect ourselves from outside influences -- life can be hard enough sometimes without falling into someone else's moods. Plus like Madisgram said, when I'm feeling lousy, it sure helps me to try to help someone else. That's the BEST remedy.

Take care & God bless. Hugs, Lee

[Willcat]

I cant be around negative people for too long. The bad vibes they give off in no good for me.

[puzzclar]

This happens to me all the time, that's why during finals week at school I have to Hibernate from the world.

Do what you can to help yourself, and maybe the other person (if it's possible without bring you down too.)