[ImperfectMe]

So, my emotions were running wild (as my "Talk sense into me, please" post can attest to). I was really looking down on myself, and on top of that, I was feeling useless. I didn't feel like I was contributing to anything in this world.

So, to change the feeling of uselessness, guess what I did? (Keep in mind that I also have agoraphobia on top of PTSD). I called my sister-in-law who works for an assisted living center to see if there was anything I could volunteer for. She at first thought I was kidding because she knows that it terrifies me to go anywhere other than my house, or work. When she realized I was serious, she said there was a lady who never has any visitors who could use some company. So, I got myself into my car, and I sat there for about 15 minutes scared to death of what I was about to do. But, I pushed on through the feelings and got there.

This lady had no idea who I was, but was so happy that I was there! She asked me to read to her, which I did for a couple of hours until she started to fall asleep. When I was leaving, she asked me to please come back, and that it meant so much to her that a stranger would take time out of their day to spend with her.

Now, the reason I am posting this is not to get recognition. I'm posting this because of the feeling that I got from helping someone else. I haven't felt this way in a really long time. So, I'm just throwing it out there for everyone. If you need a quick "pick me up", go find someone that needs help. IT'S AWESOME!

[A Red Panda]

I'm really proud of you for overcoming the anxiety of leaving your house!

[MotownJohnny]

Excellent. Way to go!

[JaneC]

Great stuff IM!!

I agree, when i had MDD i started volunteer tutoring adult literacy...it gave me a real boost.