Hello @RedHorse
You and me both and others too. And, while I cannot speak for @Dimity , I believe that he may probably say much the same.
Alright, our specific circumstances may not all be the same, but a lot of the feelings that we experience as a result of our circumstances are the same or very similar. It is really in the process of expressing and addressing those feelings, that we can help and assist each other here on the forum and in this thread in particular.
@Dimity and others are aware, from what I have discussed over the past 8+ months, that I have made significant progress in my physical capacity and psychological health. Coming from a long way back, with quite a long way to go.
My progress has been as a result of a number of factors. Firstly, seeking and gaining the support of a counsellor with whom I have been able to work constructively for my benefit. I believe, that it is, in part, because we talk with each other, not to each other.
Another factor has been my interaction on the forums. A lot of communication and correspondence has been in the form of positive affirmation by and from many other members. As well as that, I have endeavoured to contribute to conversations with others and offer suggestions and support through the forum. That interaction has given me a feeling of worthwhile contribution that has been mutual and reciprocal for me, as I hope and believe, has also been the case for others, in like fashion.
I have started a couple of threads. One is a general discussion thread, called
“Henry's Landing Strip and Hangar”,
the other called
“Food and Beverage Choices for Improved Physical and Psychological Health.”
Both of these threads have helped me 'get out of myself'. The first is unashamedly, a dreaming thread, though it also provides the foundation for some serious conversations and discussions. The second, is a more practical approach to day to day nutrition. At present, I am aiming at personal reduction for health {got to be cautious about terminology; see Guidelines & Info}, so many of the observations on the Choices thread are not applicable for me at present, but give me options to which I can look forward.
Areas that I have not yet made as much progress as I would like, are with regard to my physical living space and administrative matters. Your description of your living space is, in many ways, similar to my own. Though I presently live in a house, it would probably best be described as ramshackle and tumbledown. “A little crooked man in a little crooked house …..” My physical space as you describe,
“seems way out of control and every action, however small, is an effort.”
and seems to have so little effect, as to appear not worthwhile
“Outside overgrown and wild. Haven't been into the "garden" in months.”
and I am constantly resisting the feelings of being,
“(Feeling) useless, hopeless, overwhelmed.”
I try to avoid giving those feelings too much attention, because I am aware that they are swift to take advantage of any attention that I give them. However, I never deny myself the opportunity of feeling good, even if it means that I have to ignore everything else. This is because I believe that it is only by practising feeling good, as much and as often as I can, that I will be able to progress, even by small steps at a time. I know that, even as little as I do, it is only by doing it that will allow me to move toward and reach any goal.
I am 70+, so am definitely conscious of wanting to leave particular items for specific people and as little as possible to tidy up for anyone else.
No offence taken, no apology required.
This is the right place to post what you have described and it is very appropriate for you too have done so. I believe that it is the reason, at least in part, for @Dimity having set up this valuable thread.
With Best Wishes
@HenryX
