I am a 33 year old single mother with a 2.5 year old son. Up until recently, life was fine, I worked part time and I was somewhat happy. Then somewhere down the line for reasons I still cannot explain or understand I started getting severe panic attacks and fell into a deep depression. They got so bad I could barely get myself going every morning.
I thought a lot of my anxiety was coming from the demands of my job, so I made the decision to resign to spend more time with my son. I partially felt better after this decision but then it all came rushing back to the point I had a breakdown and spent a few nights in hospital for some rest and to get some help. I have seen a psychiatrist and she has put me on some medication to help with the panic disorder.
My problem now is I am constantly afraid to be home alone. I have not had a relationship since my son's father and have no idea how to go about meeting people, especially in a small town where I know everybody.
I have spoken to my Mum about us moving back in with her for a while and she is fine with that. I am happy there and so is my son. We have a room all set up nicely. The problem is my 25 year old younger brother. He has just moved back home also and is a lazy bum who smokes weed all day and is argumentative, selfish and generally an a**hole. He does not listen to a word my Mum says, does not contribute a cent to the household, she has no control over him whatsoever yet she will not put him out as he has nowhere to go.
As much as I need to be with my Mum until I get back on my feet, I am unsure if taking my son there is a good idea. (My brother does love my son I'll admit that) Yet the thought of living here much longer alone sends me into a state of panic.
I am very vulnerable and confused and do not know what to do. Sorry if this doesn't make much sense but I need some advice as I don't know if his negativity will be good for my mental health right now.
I really don't know what to do
I really don't know what to do
Posted in:
Mental Health, Anxiety & Depression
3 Replies
Don't go home. Stay away, ask your mum if she can visit you. Make sure you are regularly seeing mental health professionals. Although shrinking your world feels safe it won't stay feeling safe it will just allow you to keep shrinking your world further. Unfortunately when you have panic disorders you have to use the medication but continue to gently expand your world. Make sure you are communicating your plans to your mental health professionals so they can advise what is best for you. Are you receiving cognitive behavioural therapy through a psychologist?
Hi. The problem is I live rural and there are no mental health professionals within a 200km radius, not even visiting ones. No mums groups or hobby groups. I love living close to my family but I just fell so stuck
Have you tried beyond blue? They do online counselling. Also you can buy books or borrow from library (if you have one) on mindfulness and cognitive behavioural therapy. It's very effective