disclosing very uncomfortable information

[Former-Member]

Thanks @Ellu

Maybe one day ill get better too

[Jek]

Hi scared, I just wanted to say hi today and hope you're doing a liitle better. Recovery can be quite a challenge, but, over time, as we gradually accept ourselves and our story, learn new coping skills that send a different message to ourselves-the one of self love, compassion, peace and hope. And we learn to trust-perhaps for the first time-life becomes more manageable and we can flourish. Wishing you much peace today. Jek

[Former-Member]

thanks @Jek

im not really doing that well at all today. im dealing with this disclosure among other things that seem to be proving very difficult to deal with. im really hating being alive right now

[NikNik]

Hi @Former-Member

I don't think we've crossed paths before - it's nice to 'meet' you, but I wish it was under better circumstances.

It's phenomenal how damaging shame and embarrassment can have on our mental health. Load that on top of the traumatic experience itself, and it's completely understandable that things are so overwhelming right now.

Disclosure is a huge step, and from what I've read, it can get worse before it gets better. But the key is it does get better.

I'm concerned about your line where you say you are hating being alive right now. Do you have someone to speak with tonight or strategies to stay safe?

You mentioned you have reached out to helplines before, which is great. I would encourage you to do that again tonight, if things are escalating:

Lifeline: 13 11 14 or Crisis chat

Suicide Call Back: 1300 659 467 or online counselling

Are you safe tonight?

[Former-Member]

hi @NikNik

yes ive been told that too but i dont knwo how much more worse it can get.. 😞

yes im safe despite urges to self harm

[utopia]

@Former-Member. I'm sorry that tonight is so hard for you.

Regardless of what the trigger may be, it is very important to keep yourself safe, until this moment passes. As it will.

There is a great thread called Comfort Box on the Forum, where members have listed things that they use to help them when their heads are full of negative self talk and they need to refocus on safer thoughts.

I useTV sometimes. But I will choose at these times, a comedy that I like or maybe a brain numbing, doesn't really matter if you miss half of it, show.

Sometimes I grab some scrap material and start hand sewing cushions for my three dogs. I'm a terrible sewer. So I really need to concentrate on not pricking myself. After 10 to 15 minutes of focusing on this task, I find that my thoughts are no longer focused on my 'danger zones' {those thoughts that cause me too much pain}.

Others like to cuddle up with their pets, or do some craft. Crosswords, puzzles. Something that takes a bit of focus - but isn't too hard.

Of course, you can keep posting on the forum and chat with me or others if that also helps.

Please do what you need to do to stay safe tonight.