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creative_writerSenior Contributor
Having a history of SA, romantic relationships make me queasy. The idea of the relationship being central to fulfilling another person’s sexual desire makes me uneasy and makes me feel like an object. There may be people out there who are on the same level as me, but I feel most guys will want more than I’m willing to give. I haven’t ever been in a romantic relationship so I have no idea what’s expected
In response to: TW: Trauma and relationships
creative_writerSenior Contributor
In response to: Re: TW: Trauma and relationships
rav3nSenior Contributor
hey @creative_writer i hear you, masking is very exhausting and it probably contributes largely to some of that burnt out feeling. i used to think that trying to appear like everyone else would help me feel accepted too but it made me feel more alone knowing that they don't know the real me.
so many people told me 'just be yourself' and i just laughed because its way easier said then done. but in all honesty, the more authentic i was, the more i attracted people who were similar to me and the less i had to mask. it is scary, the fear of being rejected, the fear of never finding people who understand you, etc., they are there but when you start being yourself, over time it starts to feel easier and easier - and the reward outweigh the fear of rejection.
it does start with small steps though, maybe there's something little each week you can try to 'unmask' about yourself in front of others?
also love that you have poetry as a form of expression - sometimes our feelings don't feel simple so it makes sense why you wouldn't really feel satisfied using simple words to explain it. poetry has a way of turning ugly emotions into such beautiful expressions of what it means to be human 💗 hope today's been a lil brighter for you!
In response to: Re: TW: Trauma and relationships
creative_writerSenior Contributor
In response to: Re: TW: Trauma and relationships
JynxModerator
Howdy @creative_writer darlin, how's your weekend been?
Just wanted to pop in to say g'day, and also been reading along - thought it might be nice for you to know that I've always thought that were we to have met IRL, we'd have become fast friends. You have something I value immensely - good chat! As in, whenever we talk, I always end up lost in the conversation, cos I'm enjoying it so much! So yeah, take that! You gosh darn delightful human you!
In response to: Re: TW: Trauma and relationships
OaktreeSenior Contributor
Howdy @Jynx @creative_writer
How are you both doing. It can be daunting to try and fit in when you know you are different. Embrace your differences because they make you unique and beautiful
In response to: Re: TW: Trauma and relationships
rav3nSenior Contributor
@creative_writer stigma is such a sucky thing!! totally understand it'll take a while, there's definitely no rush in wanting to unmask. i think my first step to unmasking started online actually - even online i used to struggle to be myself but then i slowly did on places like reddit. i was surprised by how many people i related to and how many people related to me the more i unmasked there.
do you feel like your masking on this forum as well?
i'm sorry that today was exhausting for you. reaching out for support is not always easy, especially if you're feeling unworthy today. regardless of what you're feeling, you are always deserving and worthy of support. you matter to us always. just wanted to check if right now is one of those instances where you'd like to reach out for further support? are you feeling safe?
In response to: Re: TW: Trauma and relationships
JynxModerator
Very big agree @Oaktree! Embracing my inner weirdo has made my soul much happier 😊
In response to: Re: TW: Trauma and relationships
OaktreeSenior Contributor
@Jynx @creative_writer
Jynx I love that expression!
Embrace your inner weirdo…
I embrace my inner crazy and am good with it. It makes life kinda spontaneous and unpredictable and that is not always a bad thing
In response to: Re: TW: Trauma and relationships
creative_writerSenior Contributor
In response to: Re: TW: Trauma and relationships
creative_writerSenior Contributor
Help us push aside the stigma and discrimination surrounding complex mental health and change the way people talk about, and care for, mental illness.
SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
SANE values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.
Help us push aside the stigma and discrimination surrounding complex mental health and change the way people talk about, and care for, mental illness.
SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
SANE values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.
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