Hello,

I completely understand how you feel and often feel this way as well. I genuinely feel guilty sometimes even spending my own money on things- because I think about how it should go to someone else. The way Ive started to cope, and Ive been told to cope, is by realizing no one person could ever solve all the problems in the world themselves. You are doing what you can with what you have. Its great youve made changes in your life that align with your moral beliefs. By speaking your truth you can inspire small changes in others. I try to pay it forward and give back as much as possible (even if its buying the persons coffee behind me in the drive thru) but also view my own life with compassion. We have all had challenges in life and deserve joy and to be happy. I think finding a balance between living for yourself and helping others is the key.  Realize that although your empathy causes you grief- its a truly honorable quality that makes you a special person. You have that gift for a reason.

Hi Barb,

I went through a very similar experience as you so I completely relate. It took me much trial and error to learn what worked so Id love to offer some suggestions. Acupuncture helped me pinpoint some blocked areas (also many insurance plans cover it now), counseling helped me release a lot of my anger. If you bottle your feelingsup- they fester. I also dealt with an extremely dysfunctional family and I would ruminate over and over the things that hurt me so I empathize with you alot.  Share your feelings with a therapist or a friend. It helped validate my emotions and experiences. Yoga helped me release my frustration and helped me build up my confidence again. I absolutely hate the gym so finding something that helped me emotionally as well as physically was huge. Watching your flexibility and strength increase is powerful for your mental health as well.

I hope this helps a little and dont give up. Thinks can get better and you can find peace. I am also confident alot of your physical symptoms will improve when you take care of your mental health.

Hi Sarah,

I have been through several similar situations. What I have learned most recently (since basically the same thing happened that youre going through) is that this keeps reoccurring because I have not solved the root of the problem. When we place our worth on someone else- then we get ‘rejected’ – it hurts so badly because there is some type of void there already. I know you stated its still bothering you and you are ruminating on what you could have done differently. There is nothing you can do to fix the past. All you can do is learn how to be authentic and loving to yourself in the future. Consider him a lesson, and I am sending you positive vibes. I sure know the feeling and I know how hard it is!