Shut down and withdraw

Hey there @Mlw

Sorry to hear you've been experiencing frequent lows, i know it can feel really isolating not being able to reach out for help during those moments. I'm really glad you've reached out here.

I've experienced those 'shutting down' phases too, and here's what's helped:

• Identifying signs or potential triggers for the phase - for me, things like poor sleep, starting to feel too exhausted to respond to texts, having multiple assignments due soon, arguments with my parents, etc., are some things that tend to cause/lead up to my low moods. Do you notice a pattern with what starts those low mood cycles?
• Journaling - i find it hard to say how i feel and a lot of the time it's because i don't really know how i feel. writing it out is my way of processing, putting a label onto those feelings helps determine how i'm going to soothe myself.
• Support system - having people to reach out to, including professional supports is so important. I usually lean on my best friend and my psych during those times. i never used to tell my friend how i was feeling, but in the last two years, i've practiced reaching out and i'm pretty comfortable with it now. something like 'hey i need to vent/rant' or 'i'm not feeling good, i need a distraction' etc.
• Connecting with nature & getting sunlight - as you've probably heard, sunlight can boost mood and getting outside/being around nature can help ground you.

If you're ever experiencing those low moods, there are text-based supports such as Lifeline Text Support 0477 131 114 https://www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-text/ and Suicide Call Back Service
https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/. Perhaps typing might be easier than a phone call.

The most important part, is remembering that you matter. Our brains can trick us into think we don't deserve help or that it doesn't matter. You do deserve support, to be heard, to be seen. You don't have to go through those hard times alone. 💙