Has anyone else experienced hearing bad news when they are struggling to cope and then feeling they handled the phone call badly? My LO’s anniversary was last week and then I heard my cousin has cancer. I just feel like it was a difficult time for me (though obviously ten times worse for her) and I could have been more foused on what was happening for her. I am now going over the call wondering if I should email my cousin and apologise? I have had a few bouts of bad news this year and it just feels like over load and then I worry about how I come across? Does any one else feel like this? If it sounds like I am being self focused it is actually because I know other people need support and not to be put upon at their own time of need and I am anxious mostly because I don’t want to make already difficult situations worse, and particularly for my cousin whom I love. x x
You sound like such a caring person, @Viv5. I’m just giving your thread a gentle, “bump” - I’m sure someone will have some thoughts to share.
@Viv5
I’ve really struggled with other people being ill since my husband died. I feel awful about it, but I had nearly eleven years of caring for him by myself and a traumatic last week in hospital. I think I am just deep, deep down tired and trying to shield myself. I know what you mean about overload. I’m not myself and not reacting as I should at all. It’s weird but my brain is just not to be trusted just now and I’m not in control of it.
I also keep “thinking” replies to messages from people but not actually doing them, so I’ve thought I have replied and I haven’t. I maybe just went and laid down instead. I wish I could feel normal and reliable again.
I expect your call will have been fine, and you are just being extra sensitive doubting yourself as our emotions are on turbo. You could always send a nice card or chocolates saying you are thinking of them and it was a shock when you heard.
Thank you for taking the trouble to reply. Much appreciated . X