YOU ARE NOT ALONE - A companion online community discussion board for The Mental Illness Happy Hour podcast with Paul Gilmartin

I'm 30 years old, male and live in Albany, NY. I have been suffering from several self diagnosed mental issues from a young age. When I was one year old I was diagnosed with leukemia which left me with large facial scars. This has crippled my confidence and has left me with an inability to have any type of intimate relationships. although I had one girlfriend for six months who is the only person I've had sex with. I only have a couple of close friends although I have a large immediate family which I'm relatively close to. I've never sought any professional help partly because I haven't been able to afford it and even when I've had insurance I feared the judgement from my family. I grew up being told that no one can help you but yourself.

I believe what I suffer from:
Anxiety
Fear of intimacy
Depression
Avoidant Personality Disorder

I'm sure there's more...
This site seemed helpful: http://www.healthyplace.com/other-info/ ... enu-id-71/

Welcome! You have honesty going for you and that is always attractive in human relationships. I am really glad you found this board and hope this site is an additional tool for your toolbox in life.

I am one of a few here as it is a new website and message board, I am certain there will be many more people here for all of us to share with.

Glad you are here!
Martin

Welcome!


I don't know much, but I do know one thing. We cannot get better on our own. We need other people. Depression warps perception, and we need another set of ears and eyes to help us find the truth. I wish you luck, and encourage you to seek help. I have yet to meet someone whose life hasn't gotten better though seeking help. There are often inexpensive ways to get into therapy. A lot of time psychology graduate students are willing to work with someone who is financially strapped. You might see if that's available in your area. I think there is a college or two in Albany. Don't give up.

Napping Champion