I hear you. I think it's important to take a day to yourself when you are able....a good balance of personal time.

I slept in this morning for the first time in ages and damn it feels good. Totally relaxing and not doing what other people expect me to do.....for at least a few hours today.

Jfulk it's ok sometimes not to be strong for everyone and do things for yourself..there's nothing wrong with that ! :)

I have the same problem. I have to be strong for my son and others but I'm afraid I will fall apart. It is good to take a day when you can. Hugs.

can you explain to them that you need a 'mental health day'? a day where you can recharge your own batteries and take time out to look after yourself? it's not a case of being selfish but a case of self care... if we can't look after ourselves then we are basically buggered.. and the old adage.... if we don't look after ourselves who will? if we expect ourselves to be strong all the time... then that is heaping pressure and unrealistic expectations on our back... it's as sensitive said... balance.... we bend with the wind..... we don't want to get uprooted.... treat yourself as you would others... with kindness and understanding... and try not to let guilt stand in your way too much.... it's not easy I know

I hate the word SELFISH. It comes up whenever someone talks about taking care of themselves...."it's selfish". IT IS NOT SELFISH!!
Why can't a person take care of themselves? Who else will do it?
You need a break jfulk....as everyone does from time to time.
Take that time before it's too late. Stress can kill.

I don't think taking care of yourself is selfish at all. We need time to rest and be calm and have some peace and quiet away from the stress of worrying about doing for everyone around us. If you need time explain to others you need a little time. Don't feel bad about yourself we all need time to take care of our own physical and mental health. Nothing wrong with that!

The problem is that many around me suffer from high anxiety, agorophobia and seasonal depression. It makes me feel bad because I know they have their own problems. I understand the logic in taking care of myself, but that sure doesn't feel practical very often. I'm so damned tired and feel like I can't handle anything. :(

Big hug for you jf.... Taking care of you first is always what's in our best interest... We can't give away what we don't have to give....xo

Yep I know what you mean. Its a big job being the rock for everyone all of the time. But I think that when we do that constantly its easy for our loved to forget that we too have days where we need someone to be our rock. Or days where we just need to chill. Its hard I know, but you have to remind them when you need those days. Better that than they lose their rock all together.

why is taking care of ourselves "Selfish"?
Is that a Puritan thing? It's the predominant feeling everywhere.
It annoys the heck out of me.