You are volunteering...... that is a very good thing.

Maybe this specific charity is not the best match for you, but I do believe that volunteering (giving back to others who are less fortunate) is always a good thing.

I hope you either stick to this one or find another cause that better fits your abilities.


Thanks for being so kind.

Sorry to hear about your rough patch, Blue. I can relate a bit as I recently had to bow out of a volunteer event I had every intention of following through on, and felt that I was ready to handle. Unfortunately social anxiety is a real beast for me lately and I was losing sleep over it and the dread was literally unbearable.

On top of that there was a chance I'd have to speak in front of a crowd of strangers about personal stuff, which I would do in a heartbeat if it would help them through something they're going through, but the whole package just overwhelmed me to the point of backing out. I didn't want to be seen as a quitter either, or have it reflect on my character.

Thankfully the main people I had to deal with were understanding, not so sure about the others just yet. Ultimately I don't regret my decision, I (and they) just have to accept that I am not ready for such a thing at this point. Sorry for such a long reply, just wanted to share & let you know others also go through what you are experiencing. Good luck with your situation, truly.

Oh sweetie, I'm so sorry you are going through this. I hate that the volunteer situation is causing you stress and making you feel discouraged. You certainly shouldn't be verbally attacked by your mother for ANY REASON. PM me if you want to talk about it, okay?

(((((((((((( COMFORTING HUGS ))))))))))))))

LMT

you shouldn't do something that doesn't bring you joy. I have left volunteer organizations because they were causing me stress. sometimes it takes a while to find the right place for your interest.

give yourself a break and be kind to yourself. getting out of the house is important but not at the cost of your sanity.

hang in there, something will come up, maybe not the next time or two but something will click

Hey blue, sorry to hear your volunteer experience do not go well. Are you volunteering at something your confortable with? Don't give up, you will find your niche. Hang in there, I'm here for ya.

Thank you all for the kind and warm responses.

The placed I went to volunteer is not a charity per se. It's a thrift store, but it's not one in the traditional sense. It's a place where people with mental health issues can go to volunteer. In turn we earn credit which can be used to purchase items at the store.

It's not something I would have chosen to do on my own. My peer support takes everyone he works with there. I gave it a shot because while it wasn't appealing, I thought it might help with my social phobia issues that have prevented me from holding a steady job. Except it was like every prior bad experience which is discouraging.

I know with my issues and lack of confidence I tend to give up on things too easily so a part of me feels like I am quitting again, but I really did not enjoy the experience and am not sure this is the right place for me. I'd rather volunteer with animals first.

I just wish it was easier for someone like me to find their niche in the world.

Blue its ok to quit if its not your thing, dont beat yourself up. Not everything is for everyone , the only way to know if you like it is give it a try. Working with animals sound like a blast. Hope you can find a place that brings you joy.

I'm sorry you're feeling bad, but I think you should be proud you did something that was scary to you!
If you have a zoo they might have volunteer jobs, or animal shelters, even vets. Those jobs you might not have so much interaction but enough to help work through the problems. I love animals and tried to volunteer at our local shelter, but I was still working then, plus physical problems and my depression were a problem. Think about what you like and find a way to help the places that do that. If you like books, libraries always need help and they are quiet.

Hope you find something that will work for you, but I don't think you should worry about stopping volunteering at a place that added too much stress. You gave it your best. Be proud you tried. Best of luck and many hugs.

Well hun I don't know what a "normal life" is BUT I do know what a abby-normal one is...I know cuz I watched the movie young Frankenstein...

I know no help am I ...oh well...but I do have a question though I think I should just keep my trap shut. But as I am stupid I'll ask it any way...

What do you mean by... her disgusting personal stuff...? Are you referring to what she does or whats under her clo...sorry not gona finish ...

((((HUGZ))))

Thank you all. Thank you hopeless1955 for reminding me of the positive. It's so easy to blow up the negative and forget I did something positive for myself.

doghunter59, LOL I mean talking about bathroom habits.