[attitudeadjustment]

Ironically, I feel like it is so strange that we are encouraged by pros like Brene Brown to be vulnerable, and yet we cannot even see each other. Maybe the internet is not the most ideal way to heal the mind, heart, and loneliness of my life, however, I am relying on it as a tool. Ted Talks are also helpful. Still, I feel like my life is going to waste! My goal is to find the tools, support, love, and to be courageous enough to do something about my mental health as it relates to family, unemployment etc. I have researched so man different avenues to find a way out of this hole, and it does feel like a hole! I think that art is one way, writing helps me too. I am just feeling like I have so much to offer the world and yet, I cannot seem to get a job, I feel guilty about relying on my family and not being able to get my act together. I think that I have to talk to my family about the support I need, but they are sick of hearing it! I feel like I am at my witsend.

It's always tough when you feel like you can't talk to family. But please know that we are always here to listen (although don't let that stop you from reaching out for support from your family and friends. That is what they are there for)

The internet might not always be the best tool since you can't always feel the closeness of other people but sometimes I find it truly encouraging that there are many other people who feel the exact same way and still fight. It gives me hope that if so many other people are looking for the light, it must exist somewhere out there.

I feel like, while videos and articles are always great to read, they don't always stay with us more than a few days (which is why I have a hard time reading self-help books because sometimes motivating yourself to help yourself is the most difficult part). Self-improvement is a slow, slow, slooooow process and often time we don't see the difference until we look back after it's been a year or sometimes longer. So don't give up As long as your trying, there will be a way. Someone once said that many more people could become famous inventors if only they tried one more time. A failed experiment is never a failure because you always learn something from it.

Best of luck!

[Little Lulu]

I agree that the internet is a useful tool for connecting with others but I need face-to-face contact with people to stay healthy. I joined a 12-step support group for people with mood and relationship issues and there I found people willing to be vulnerable, loving, and willing to help me along the way in recovery. I have a sponsor who is now my friend and we talk on the phone almost daily. All for $1 a meeting!