[Pennster]

I think I could use a little support. I am suffering from a chronic illness that sometimes becomes more acute. Right now I’m feeling quite poorly. And my therapist is away - a fact which I had forgotten until just now.

I have worked so hard with my therapist at getting better at being able to help myself when I’m feeling depressed. I usually do ok nowadays. But being sick just affects my mindset, and right now it feels so huge that I don’t know when I’m going to talk to my therapist again or have my next session.

Anyway, I don’t even know what I am looking for. I just thought people here would understand.

[SlumberKitty]

(((Hugs))) I'm sorry you aren't feeling well and that your therapist is away. That always makes things harder. Being sick makes things harder too. I hope you feel better soon and that you get to talk to your T. Take things one day at a time. (((Hugs))) Kit

[coolibrarian]

I also suffer from chronic illnesses and am currently in a flare. Even though my T has cancer. I know I can reach out to her now, if I need to. I'm sorry you're going through this now. Gentle hugs.

[here today]

I hear you. I injured my foot and need to stay off of it for several weeks in order to let it heal. But, in the meantime, I am largely immobilized and that is incredibly depressing.

I hope the acute episode eases and you feel better soon.

[Ididitmyway]

Sorry you are not feeling well. May be it'd help to think of the time when the acute episode passes and you will fell better since acute episodes are temporary, as they come and go. Meanwhile, be gentle with yourself. Do something for yourself that you'd enjoy, whatever it is, whether it's eating ice cream or watching an old favorite movie or whatever you like to indulge yourself in. And focus on the idea that this will pass.

I’m so sorry you are struggling Pennster.

I manage to a debilitating health issue that flares up as well. It’s hard during the times I feel alone and unsupported.

Is there a way you can notify your therapist while he is away? It might help to get affirmation that he is thinking about you even if you can’t meet in person.

When I am not feeling well and don’t have the support I need, I am very vigilant with self care and treat myself as kindly as I would a loved one. Warm baths help and I give myself the leeway to eat anything I am in the mood for. It’s comforting to read books or watch movies about others who have gone through a lot in their lives and were strengthened by it. I’ve fallen back on Maya Angelou books and audiobooks on many occasions. Audiobooks are particularly helpful if the reader’s voice is soothing and the words are wise. (Letter to My Daughter is my favorite)

I hope you feel better soon!

[Pennster]

Thank you for all the hugs and the comments, everyone. If I had more energy I'd reply individually. I just want to say I really appreciate the support, and I am taking all your comments to heart.

I should be able to talk to my therapist sometime in the next few days anyway. He's doing something at the moment that is keeping him very busy, but I know he will be available again, and I am trying to remember how helpful he has always been.

Thanks again, everyone! I will use your good thoughts and advice to motivate myself to keep trying to take care of myself.

[downandlonely]

I'm sorry you're not feeling well and your therapist is away. Do you have any other support from family and friends? I agree with the others. Be gentle with yourself.

[Pennster]

Originally Posted by downandlonely

I'm sorry you're not feeling well and your therapist is away. Do you have any other support from family and friends? I agree with the others. Be gentle with yourself.

Yes, thank you. I do have good friends and I have some family who live a little bit away. I think when I get down it's hard for me to remember to reach out but your message is a good reminder.