Stress Center Peer Support

Such good advice from everyone. I actually don't have much good advice because sometimes I feel EXACTLY the same way. I am constantly reviewing this program b/c it's all like a snowball effect. The warm weather is here, outdoor activities and more socializing (anxiety-producing for me) but with that brings the reacting to what people say, think and do. I feel like people are always giving advice and I really don't recall sounding like I wanted it either! Then I think of Ken on the the program tapes when he said he just agreed when he was in a crowd with whatever they were talking about. So, I've been finding myself kinda "nasty" or a little "mean"? trying to be assertive and sticking up for myself and what I say. Great example-Me and my husband decided along with my 6 year old son that he was going to join soccer NOT T-ball this spring. (My son likes to hit regular pitches not to mention T-ball was a few hundred dollars and more practices and games). I can't even begin to tell you how many people have asked me why isn't he playing T-ball. Jeez, it's only T-ball people!! I have actually just wrinkled my nose and shook my head and left it at that. I can go on and on, but luckily I won't-just a great post!

I have run into this issue many a time and I have found that a kind but firm way of dealing with those that tell you how to feel or how to deal or how to resolve issues (like they know more about you than you do) is to say, well thanks for your input, but I really need to work this thru on my own. Surprisingly, if these people are friends, they will understand that and allow you the space to learn and cope and deal with the issues at your speed and in your own way. Of course, this might not work for everyone, but it has been effective for me.

Best of luck in dealing with such a tough situation. Having anxiety and/or depression is never easy, but I pray that you have the strength and assertiveness to make sure that you are allowed to do it your way. God Bless.