I'm terrified to rejoin the work force, although I know I might someday.

Recently I have also been sapped of most of my self-esteem and confidence and worthiness as a person. I get that, completely. I get the feeling of dragging yourself through the motions of your day and trying to just make it to the end, let alone show yourself to anyone while doing it.

I bought several books, (three of which aren't here yet though), to help me get through this. I've been trying to convince myself I'm NOT a failure, I AM a worthy person. That's what you have to do too, is tell yourself over and over, you are a worthy person and you have value. Keep reminding yourself of that, (God knows I'm trying to do that all the time), and keep plugging away at the lack of confidence and assurance and whatever it is that's holding you back.

I've gone from the self-attacking stage some to a grief stage of sorts, maybe you can examine your feelings of inadequacy as a grief of sorts, like you may have lost something you previously had. Sometimes looking at it that way makes it feel less like a weakness and more like a normal feeling of emptiness or loss.

And also a big thing for me lately is expectations. I think I keep expecting people to step up to the plate and help fix the problems, but I have about decided that is an unreasonable expectation, despite them telling me they will. I think this is something I've got to beat on my own, (with certain people's support), but without any "cavalry" to the rescue on my side of the fight, if that makes any sense.

Hang in there Amy, believe in yourself and go out there and prove who you are. You can do it, I know you can.

Brenda