Posted by pej on January 14, 1999, at 20:01:50
In reply to Re: What is "normal?", posted by alan on January 14, 1999, at 18:29:13
> > > What is the line between normal and abnormal feelings or behavior? Fairly often (perhaps on a weekly basis), I became strangely conscious that I am anxious and nervous for no apparent reason. I become irritable and snappy when my family try to speak to me. I feel like I have to go off by myself; I become very "stir-crazy," and tear away from all human contact. I am 18 years old, and I should be enjoying all kinds of social activity. Instead, I am withdrawn and disinterested. I fear failure in every aspect of my life. I drive my boyfriend up the wall with my constant insecurities. I wonder if how I am feeling is a "normal" part of my changing from a child to a woman, culturally related, or innately part of who I am. If not, I wonder what I should do to prevent my insecurities and feelings of anxiety.
> > Hi Bethany,
> > I'm sure your age is a major part of your feelings
> > but I think the easiest way to sort things out
> > would be to talk to a counselor. Are you in high
> > school or college? I'm sure your school would
> > have somebody available. As far as feeling nervous,
> > that's fairly common in panic disorder, it just
> > depends how disabling your feelings are. Are they
> > interfering with your relationships and school/job?
> > If so, you owe it to yourself to see someone. I wish
> > you the best of luck.
> Just adding to above. The important questio question is not one of normal versus abnormal. The important question is one of good versus bad; and. if bad, could it be better? It sounds to me like you are not feeling good. I bet you could feel better. Professional help may help. Good luck.>>I commend you on your self-knowledge and ability to verbalize it so well. I had, and still sometimes have, those feelings too.
It's been quite a while since I was 18.
Looking back, I don't wish they had good anti-depressants then, but I sure as heck would have
liked someone who would LISTEN! Try a GOOD counselor first, ask around, if you don't see things improving...go see a psychiatrist.
Get started and get better! Keep us posted.
poster:pej
thread:2382
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/19990401/msgs/2408.html