Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

The Genealogist

(4,723 posts)
Tue Nov 3, 2020, 03:17 PM Nov 2020

I did it. I voted! This time was a little different for me

I always vote. It is part of my character. This year was a little more difficult for me, because I have been having some mental health issues. I have had anxiety problems for years, and I will have times where enough stressors pile up, and attacks hit me. I have agoraphobia related to them. It has been bad recently, especially the agoraphobia. Even going to the mailbox can set off an attack.

But...

I have done some mental exercises for the past few days. My partner has driven me around town, further and further away from the house. I have been walking just a bit more outside each day. And, I have seen so many videos and statements from people whose status as full citizens depend on this election begging people to vote. Really, as a gay man, mine does too. SO...I summoned up every bit of strength I could find, and I went and voted. No attack. Just pride in myself for doing this. I am crying as I write this. This time casting my ballot means more to me than I think it ever has before.

8 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies
I did it. I voted! This time was a little different for me (Original Post) The Genealogist Nov 2020 OP
Thank you for facing your fear! demmiblue Nov 2020 #1
Keep up the progress Sucha NastyWoman Nov 2020 #2
Wonderful, Genealogist. I'm very glad for you. Hortensis Nov 2020 #3
I'm so glad you got through PatSeg Nov 2020 #4
... Nevilledog Nov 2020 #5
That's courage! cry baby Nov 2020 #6
I once had... electric_blue68 Nov 2020 #7
THis is much what I have experienced The Genealogist Nov 2020 #8

Hortensis

(58,785 posts)
3. Wonderful, Genealogist. I'm very glad for you.
Tue Nov 3, 2020, 03:25 PM
Nov 2020

Being a stand-up citizen is obviously a strong part of your character.



electric_blue68

(14,888 posts)
7. I once had...
Tue Nov 3, 2020, 04:47 PM
Nov 2020


severe agoraphobia for a relatively short time and had to go through the short, then longer desensitization walks, same approach on riding the subways, and buses as well.
Some with family, some with professionals. As someone who could/can zip around all the Burroughs of NYC, out of State, and across the country - this was a shocking, and horrific experience

Big Congratulations, on your step by step till sucess! Even better without an attack!

The Genealogist

(4,723 posts)
8. THis is much what I have experienced
Tue Nov 3, 2020, 05:23 PM
Nov 2020

The anxiety is a long-standing issue. The agoraphobia is usually a symptom of the attack, then it is gone when the attack is gone. I work from home, and with COVID I really don't leave the house if I don't have to. I think that is the culprit right now. The "wade slowly into the chilly swimming pool" approach has helped very much!

Latest Discussions»General Discussion»I did it. I voted! This t...